Maxine C. Carey Buchanan, 89, of Atchison, Kansas, completed her earthly journey peacefully on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Twin Oaks Assisted Living Facility in Lansing, Kansas, after being blessed with nearly 90 years of life.

Maxine was born September 25, 1936, in Atchison, Kansas, to Ruth Ross Carey and David Carey. Her life was marked by devotion to family, enduring warmth and the quiet strength of a woman who found joy in simple pleasures and cherished company.

She began her education at Lincoln School in Atchison, where she attended through the eighth grade, and later graduated from Atchison High School. During her younger years, Maxine was active in sports and especially enjoyed playing softball and basketball. Her love of sports continued throughout her life, whether watching games or attending them in person. She also enjoyed reading and “watching her stories,” familiar pastimes that brought comfort and enjoyment to her days.

A woman with a strong work ethic and a heart for serving others, Maxine began her working years in housekeeping and later worked as a nurse aide at Atchison Hospital. She went on to serve as a teacher’s assistant at Martin West Grade School and as a secretary at Cardox Chemetron Corporation. She later returned to Atchison Hospital, working as a nurse aide at Cray Senior Manor. Maxine eventually joined the staff of Mount St. Scholastica Academy, where she served as a dormitory prefect until her retirement. Throughout her working years, she formed lasting friendships that she treasured for the rest of her life.

Maxine never seemed to meet a stranger. A simple trip to the grocery store could easily turn into a social occasion, as she was sure to run into someone she knew and stop for a conversation. She was classy, well put together and took pride in her appearance. She rarely went anywhere without her purse, and inside you could always find a comb — because Maxine was not about to go anywhere “looking a mess.” It was a small detail that captured so much of who she was: a woman who carried herself with grace, enjoyed the company of others and always wanted to put her best foot forward.

Maxine was first married to Millard Allen Sr., who preceded her in death in 1970. She later met Henry Buchanan Sr., and the two were united in marriage on October 30, 1976. Together, they shared nearly 50 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, companionship and faith. Their marriage was a testament not only to their love for one another but, more importantly, to their love for God. Their devotion was evident in the way they cared for one another through every season of life — Maxine cared for Henry, and Henry cared for Maxine. He continues to reside in the home he built for their family.

Above all else, Maxine’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family. At one point in her life, she devoted herself to being a stay-at-home mother, caring for her son and granddaughter. She treasured the time she shared with those she loved, and family remained at the center of her heart throughout her life.

For Maxine, family was not defined by blood alone, but also by the love and bonds formed along the way. She was blessed with Harold Crittendon, whom she loved as a son, and Clydette Buchanan and Pam Lewis, whom she loved as daughters. All three lovingly helped care for Maxine and held a special place in her heart. She also shared a special bond with her cousin, Victor Fields, who became like a grandson to her.

In addition to her husband, Maxine is survived by her children, Janet Smith (Gary), Millard Allen, Karla Allen, Steven Allen and Clay Buchanan Jr. (Angela); her grandchildren, Summer Allen Woode, Gary Smith Jr. (Madeline) and Aaliyah Buchanan; her great-grandchildren, D.J. Woode, Secret Woode (Alyssa), Shonte’ Bean (Felix), Norah Smith and Lylah Smith; and her great-great-grandchildren, Charlotte Woode and Karma Thomas.

She is also survived by her sisters, Marilyn Heard (Tom) and Carolyn Carey (David); her brothers, William “Giggles” Vaughn and Robert Carey (Sheila); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends who will remember her with love and affection.

Maxine was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Robert Earl Allen; her daughter, Dee Ann Buchanan; and her siblings, David Carey Jr., Earl “Tank” Carey, John Carey, Bill Carey, Naomi Baker and Ruth “Pam” Briscoe.

A Homegoing Service will be held September 26, 2026, at 1 p.m. at First Christian Church, 301 North 7th Street, Atchison, Kansas. She will be laid to rest at Sunset Memory Gardens. Livestreamed services may be found at www.arensbergpruett.com. 

Maxine will be remembered for her devotion to family, her warmth, her timeless grace and the simple joys that made her who she was. Her presence brought comfort and familiarity to those around her, and the memories she created will continue to be cherished by all who knew and loved her.