Demetrius M. Buchanan

Aug. 23, 1963 - May 20, 2009
SOUTH BEND - Demetrius M. Buchanan, 45, beloved son and brother, who resided on Monroe Street, South Bend, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, May 20th, in his residence. Demetrius was born to the union of Leslie, who preceded him in death, and Vernell (Daniel) Buchanan on August 23, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois.

He graduated from LaSalle High School in 1982, lettering in basketball. He received a letter of recommendation from the City of South Bend for exhibiting Good Sportsmanship and for being a positive role model while attending and playing basketball at LaSalle High School. He received a scholarship to attend Sequoias College in California in 1984; he was named to the All-State team, voted Most Valuable Player, and was named as an All American in the Central Valley Conference. While attending Sequoias College he was referred to as "The Basketball Giant." Demetrius then attended the University of Nebraska where he played basketball and furthered his education. After college he was employed as a basketball coach.

Survivors left to cherish his memory include his mother, Vernell M. Buchanan of South Bend; five sisters, Patricia Ray of Memphis, TN, Janet M. Pittman and Cherish Buchanan, both of South Bend, Valerie E. Buchanan of Douglasville, GA, and Carolyn Quarles of Peoria, IL; five brothers, Leslie Buchanan Jr. of White Plains, MD, James Buchanan of San Diego, CA, Anthony Buchanan, Darryl Buchanan and Ronald Buchanan, all of South Bend; along with a host of other relatives and friends. Demetrius will be truly missed by his family, other relatives and friends. He loved his family, life, playing basketball and talking politics. He was a kind, loving and compassionate individual who will be missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services for Mr. Demetrius Mark Buchanan will be at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, in Alford's Mortuary. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services in the chapel. Arrangements have entrusted to Alford's Mortuary where bereavement messages may be e-mailed to alfordsmortuary@comcast.net, c/o the Buchanan family.

Published by South Bend Tribune on May 24, 2009.

08/28/2022 EJS