Sandra Johnston Duffey Buchanan

Sandra "Sandy" Buchanan passed away January 18, 2026 of natural causes in Chapel Hill, NC. She was born and raised in Devils Lake, ND to Byron and Carol Johnston in a home filled with laughter and love. Her two sisters, Penny McMahon and Jodi Ahlfors, preceded her in death.

Sandy and her first husband, Donald Duffey, spent many years in New Bern, NC, where they wrangled a close-knit household of six children: Dianne Duffey (Chris Barbuto); Mark Duffey; Jack Duffey (Holly); Shannon Duffey Mesenko; Marjory "Madge" Duffey (Thom Middlebrook); and Michael "Ray" Duffey (Meredith Brickell). She was a generous, loving grandmother to 9 grandchildren: Rhett, Grace, Jackson, Henry, Levi, Avalon, Christian, Madeline and Clyde.

Sandy and her second husband, Meade Buchanan, lived in Raleigh, NC, and spent many a Sunday afternoon on the golf course at North Ridge Country Club. Together they instilled the importance of education and togetherness in our family. She is also survived by her stepdaughter, Carole Buchanan (William Lybrook). Meade and his son, Jim Buchanan, preceded her in death.

Sandy will be remembered for her warm, pitch-perfect voice and sparkling smile; her devotion and generosity to her family; and a countenance that wouldn't allow her speak an unkind word about anyone. She taught us to be accepting to all, and instilled in us the importance of loyalty and pure kindness. Sleep well, Mom... "I love you, I like you, you're pretty and you're nice."

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to Charles House Association either by mail (7511 Sunrise Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514) or through their website (www.charleshouse.org).