John Stewart Buchanan, age 60, of Franklin, MA passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, after a short illness.
Born on December 16, 1965, John was a longtime resident of Franklin, MA. He dedicated 40 years of service to the Town of Needham working in several capacities, including the Highway Department and as a heavy equipment operator. John was known for his reliability and strong work ethic and willingness to help wherever he was needed. His colleagues fondly remember him as someone who could always be counted on.
A devoted New England Patriots fan, John spent most Sundays at the Needham VFW, cheering on his team among a community of friends. As a longtime patron he cherished the many friendships he built there over the years. John was also active in The Millis Amvets and The Franklin Elks Club.
John is survived by his sister Janet E. Taylor of Falmouth, MA , brother Brian T. Buchanan (Darci) of Newport, RI. Niece and Nephews Brooke A. O’Leary, Ryan S. Taylor and Cole S. Taylor and great niece and nephews Reese K. O’Leary, Grayson J. O’Leary, and Connor T. O’Leary, all of whom brought him tremendous joy. He was preceded in death by his parents Eleanor J. and James G. Buchanan.
Known as “Bucky” to his friends and co-workers and “Uncle John” to his niece and nephews John will be remembered for his loyalty, kindness and unwavering devotion to the people and places he loved.
The family extends their sincere thanks to the staff at both UMass Memorial Worcester and The Massachusetts General Hospital for their exceptional care.
Visitation at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 1305 Highland Ave. Needham on Tuesday, May 26, from 4-7pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph Church, 1382 Highland Ave. Needham, on Wednesday, May 27, at 10 AM. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Burial will follow at Westview Cemetery, Lexington, MA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Travis Roy Foundation (www.travisroyfoundation.org) or The Christopher and Dana Reeves Foundation (www.christopherreeve.org/get-involved/donate/) .