Kathy Elaine Shealy Buchanan entered the gates of heaven on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

Born on August 27, 1960 to Milton and Jean Roland Shealy, Kathy had just celebrated her 66thbirthday.

Kathy was known by everyone around the City of Newberry and Newberry County. She graduated from Newberry High School in 1978 and soon after joined the City of Newberry Police Department where she completed 15 years. During this time she met her husband, Virgil Buchanan and they were abundantly blessed by the birth of their son, Thad.

Kathy and Virgil made it their goal in life to give Thad everything he needed to thrive and they kept that goal at the top of their lives. While home, Kathy began to serve on the Board of the Disabilities and Special Needs. A position she held for 22 years. Once Thad became old enough to attend school, Kathy became a substitute with the Newberry County School District for 22 years.

Kathy held many offices in the churches she belonged to. She grew up in Mayer Memorial Lutheran Church and then later, joined Summer Memorial Lutheran Church. Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School Teacher, Church committees, Church council, WELCA officer and so much more.

Most everybody has a special story about Kathy. Friends and family are welcome to join together on Thursday, September 3 at 409 N Main St, Prosperity, SC 29127 from 7:00-8:30 PM for fellowship and sharing those stories.

The Funeral will be held on Friday, September 4 at 2:00PM at Summer Memorial Lutheran Church with Pastor Rebecca Wicker and Pastor Vern Kinard officiating. Burial will follow the service at Little River Dominick Presbyterian Church in Kinards. Family and friends will gather from 12:45 – 1:45 at the church before the service on Friday.

Kathy was predeceased by her husband Virgil, parents Milton and Jean Shealy, brothers, Kenny and Eddie Shealy. She is survived by Thad Buchanan her son. Kathy is also survived by two brother-in-laws, Willie (Robin) Buchanan and Eugene Buchanan.

Memorials may be made to Summer Memorial Lutheran Church or the Newberry County Disability and Special Needs office.

Kathy would tell you she was crazy over the color purple. If you are so moved wear purple to her service.

Active pallbearers will be Joey Kitchen, Joey Dortch, Lee Foster, Matt Layton, Mark Hipp and Caden Smith.