Jean Buckhanan
Jean Buckhanan 83, was granted her heavenly wings on Sunday August 15, 2021 in Milwaukee, WI.
Jean Buckhanan was born on October 20, 1937 to Paul and Cecil Autry in Fort Smith Arkansas. Her mother moved from Fort Smith to Milwaukee in the early 1940’s and her father joined them after his service in the military.
Although she was raised an only child her parents adopted her brother Michael later in her life. They all settled in Milwaukee, WI where she would make her final transition.
Jean graduated from Messmer High school and began to work small jobs until she married Walter Buckhanan in 1961. Through their union they had three children, Cheryl, Walt and Michelle whom she loved dearly.
She worked 25 years at Herslof Optical, however, most people know her as “Ms. B” at Carter Drug Store on Burleigh where she worked part time for 45 years.
Upon the announcement of her first grandchild, she retired from Herslof Optical and became Grandma full time for Courtney and Quinton and then later for Jaela and Morgan. In between she helped care for many other family and friend’s children. She was mom and grandma to many.
She was an active member of St. Agnes Church now known as All Saints Catholic Church.
Her beautiful life will be forever cherished in the lives of her daughters Cheryl Buckhanan and Michelle (John) Watley and her son Walt (Michelle) Buckhanan; grandchildren, Courtney and Quinton Buckhanan, Jaela and Morgan Watley; step-grandchildren, Lawrence Ward, Julian and Maxwell Barnes; step-mother, Elverta Autry; Siblings, Aaisha Baiyewu, John Michael Autry and Patricia Bell; daughter-in-love, Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, brother-in-love, Jacob T. Mitchell; cousins, nieces, nephews and a host of family and friends.
With loving memories of “Jean Buckhanan”,
Dear Buchanan Family, Your Mother’s Kindness and loving way was infectious. Her gentle smile and loving ways were impossible not to notice. She “Will “ and “IS “deeply missed. I am so grateful to have had the privilege of knowing your mom. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones during this time of transition . For the word of the Lord says “ 2 Corinthians 5:8 To absence from the body is to be present with the Lord “ SUCH A BLESSING TO ME !!! Love Jacqueline Watley
Cheryl, Tony and Michelle what can I say? My heart is heavy. Your mom was the best with her warm smile, quiet demeaner and wise words of wisdom. She will always have a special memory in the Lockridge hearts. Surrounding you all with much love. Stay strong for one another. Your mom was in control and chose to rest in heaven her way. Crystal Smyth Lockridge and family
I had the pleasure of meeting Mother Buckhanan in the late 80’s. She was a joy just to be around. She made Carter’s drug store visits a memorable experience that I will cherish forever. Praying for Walt, Cheryl and Michelle for God’s Comforting Grace!!
I have many memories of visiting Ms. Buckhanan at her home. I was lucky to have tacos one night for dinner at her home with family. I also enjoyed making sure she was taken care of when she attended AKA events for Dorothy’s conferences. It was always a pleasure to see her and be around her. Rest in heaven dear Ms. Buckhanan.🙏🏾🙏🏾