Jay H. Buchanan (Hippie) 06/10/1957 - 01/25/2026

Jay H Buchanan( Hippie ), 68, passed away on January 25, 2026,  at his home in Maryville, Tennessee, the town where he was born and spent his life. Born on June 10, 1957, in Maryville to Homer Buchanan and Mabel Tilley Buchanan, Jay lived a life rooted in family, friendship, and the great outdoors.

Jay was known to many simply as "Hippie," a name that reflected his free spirit and warm heart. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. His stories—especially those about his hunting adventures—were legendary among those who knew him. Whether around a campfire or at the kitchen table, Jay could captivate an audience with tales from the woods.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Jay found peace and joy in deer hunting. He cherished the long days spent in the woods, where he felt most at home. Hunting wasn’t just a hobby for him—it was a way of life that connected him to nature and gave him countless memories to share.

Jay dedicated many years of hard work to the City of Alcoa, where he served as a heavy equipment operator until his retirement. His commitment to his job was matched only by his devotion to his family and friends.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife Kelly Buchanan; sons Nick Buchanan and Rusty Buchanan; stepson Jefferson Helton; brother Jeff Buchanan; best friend Ray Bryant; father-in-law and mother-in-law Benjamin and Sally Helton; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought joy to his later years.

He was preceded in death by his father Homer Buchanan, mother Mabel Tilley Buchanan, and son Brandon Buchanan. A celebration of his life will be scheduled at a later date. Jay’s legacy lives on through the stories he told, the love he gave so freely, and the memories shared by all who were fortunate enough to know him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him.