Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Allen Buchanan
Martha Bridgett Buchanan April 14, 1928 – February 22, 2016
Bridgett’s soul was suddenly freed from her body to ascend into heaven on Monday, February 22, 2016, followed a week later by her beloved husband Edgar on Monday, February 29, 2016. Ed and Bridgett shared 54 years of their lives together in marriage and now are together for eternity.
Bridgett was born Martha Lillian Gillespie in Joplin, Missouri to John O. and Ora Gillespie. She later had her name legally changed to Martha Bridgett as her “daddy” always called her Bridgett. She was a fine arts major at Illinois University and Kansas University, where she sang opera with an ethereal voice. She was a gifted musician playing both string bass and piano. She was in the accounting business before she sold real estate in both Kansas and Missouri for years. She adored her husband, Ed, daughters and family, pets- cats, dogs, throughout her life, and horses in her earlier years. When she was younger she was quite the equestrian, amongst her many other gift. She loved antiques, art, cooking, knitting, sewing, homemaking, decorating, gardening and of course, music. Bridgett could cook anything and made the most delicious homemade pies, pastries, and biscuits. Our dad's favorite request was Prime rib for special occasions, with Yorkshire pudding, homemade mashed potatoes (with plenty of butter and cream) along with fresh asparagus.
Ed was born Edgar Allen Buchanan in Shawnee, Oklahoma to Edgar P. Buchanan and Lucille Buchanan on December 21, 1931.
Ed was honored to serve our country in the United States Army at the age of 17 after graduating from high school. After completing his duty, he attended Oklahoma State University, and earned a B.S. in Engineering.
He worked in the insurance business starting out as a claims adjuster, and travelled extensively throughout the country, helping people and assessing damages after major catastrophes. He continued as a leader in the insurance business, specializing as an underwriter. His broad knowledge and compassion allowed him to help many people in all ways possible.
Ed loved his wife, daughters and family, eating his beloved wife’s amazing cooking, taking walks, watching NFL football with Bridgett, old movies, simply sharing stories, and laughing with family and friends. Dad enjoyed being the chef’s assistant and was an excellent griller- enjoying the art of grilling with charcoal solely on a Chargrill. In his youth, he loved motor cycles and Oldsmobile 88 automobiles.
Ed and Bridgett were inseparable throughout their 54 years of marriage, steadfast in their love for each other and Christ Jesus. They reveled in the beauty of the Southwest, Colorado, and the Ozark mountains. During their retirement, they volunteered at St. Joseph hospital in the intensive care unit. Their compassion for others in need gave comfort to families and loved ones during difficult times. Mom and Dad enjoyed taking day trips always bringing Zeke their cherished dog and stopping to picnic.. They loved going to the orchards to pick apples and peaches. They grew wonderful vegetable gardens with lots of Big Boy tomatoes.
Survivors include: 2 daughters, Rebekah Buchanan, Sarah Buchanan and her partner Lindsay Legnon.
Ed and Bridgett maintained a close relationship with her wonderful nephew, “Eddie” William Edward Gillespie and thought of Teresa and Will Rice as a son and daughter. Other survivors include Ed’s siblings, Jan Blomquist and her husband-Rod, Linda Kinnamon, and James Buchanan. His sister Betty Griffith preceded him in death. Bridgett’s brother Van Gillespie survives, William Gillespie Sr. and Patty Smith preceded her in death. They are also survived by many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends, Lee Vest, Mary Weaver and Bridgett’s dear cousin Barbara Walker.
A family graveside service will be conducted on Saturday March 12, 2016 at 2 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Great Plains SPCA, in memory of Bridgett and Edgar Buchanan. If a physical address entry is required, you may enter: 5428 Antioch Drive Merriam, KS 66202.
Honor / Memorial
We all have people and pets who hold a special place in our hearts. A gift in honor of or in memory of a person or pet can be a special way of making your gift last a lifetime. Give this gift with Great Plains SPCA www.greatplainsspca.org and you’ll be making a lifesaving difference for our needy pets.
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You can also mail your gift: Attn: Development, 5428 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS 66202