Services

Saturday, May 10, 2025

Public Viewing: 4:00 P.M. - 6:00. P.M.

Held at

Nelson & Sons Memorial Chapel

824 Lipscomb Street

Shelbyville, Tennessee

Sunday, May 11, 2025

Family Visitation: 1:00 P.M.

Funeral Service: 2:00 P.M.

Held at

Bright Temple COGIC

516 Elm Street

Shelbyville, Tennessee

Interment

Willow Mount Cemetery

Shelbyville, Tennessee

Wilkie T. Buchanan Sr., age 84, was born on September 24, 1940, in Shelbyville, Tennessee, to Rosa Lee (Anderson) Buchanan and Willie Lee Buchanan. He peacefully transitioned from this life on May 6, 2025, in Shelbyville.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers—Andrew Buchanan, Robert T. Sims, and George W. Buchanan—and eight sisters: Mary E. Sims, Irene Boyd, Jennie Mae McCory, Rosie Lee Marks, Ollie Claybrooks, Wilma C. Buchanan, Bettie Lou Ferguson, and Leanna Fishback.

Wilkie graduated from Bedford County Training School, where he was a standout athlete in both football and basketball. He went on to attend A&I University—now known as Tennessee State University (TSU)—on a football scholarship. During his high school and college years, he worked as a lifeguard, a job that reflected his lifelong love of people and the outdoors. His passion for sports extended into adulthood, where he coached an adult women’s softball team and occasionally officiated basketball and softball games. He later coached his sons’ soccer teams, always leading with encouragement and enthusiasm.

A natural businessman, Wilkie owned and operated two popular entertainment venues in his early years—the Gold Rush in Shelbyville and the Silver Dollar in Bell Buckle, Tennessee. These establishments drew crowds from near and far with performances by well-known bands including Jimmy Church, Bottom & Company, and Freddie Waters. His own local band The Young Rebels also brought joy and excitement to the community. His favorite artist, without question, was James Brown.

Wilkie was a devoted member and Deacon at Bright Temple Church of God in Christ, where his heart for children led him to serve in the children’s ministry. Affectionately known as "Uncle Wilkie" to many youth, he organized annual golf tournaments to benefit the ministry. His opening and closing remarks at these events were always a blend of humor, heart, and inspiration.

Professionally, Wilkie worked for Life of Georgia Insurance, retiring after many years of dedicated service. Never one to sit still, he launched a successful lawn care business in retirement. As he often said, "If I had known how much money was in cutting grass, I would’ve never sold insurance!"

On June 26, 1971, Wilkie married the love of his life, Diana Lee Buchanan, and together they shared 54 beautiful years. In his later years, Diana exemplified unwavering devotion, caring for him with extraordinary compassion, strength, and grace—by his side every step of the way.

Wilkie leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and generosity. He is survived by his beloved wife, Diana Lee Buchanan; two sons, Wilkie T. Buchanan Jr. and Wendell Tobias Buchanan; a devoted daughter-in-law, Brande Buchanan; and three cherished grandsons: Wilkie T. Buchanan III (Trey), Tytus Ronin Buchanan, and Torin Bryce Buchanan. His surviving siblings include Emma Jean Lentz, Rose Marie (Bobby D.) Peacock, and Willie Lee “Termite” Buchanan Jr., all of Shelbyville, and Josephine (Frank E.) Frazier of Rockvale, TN.

He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will miss his sense of humor, big hugs, and unforgettable presence.