James Buchanan MERCERVILLE - James Buchanan was taken into God's hands on March 9, 2010, at the age of 58. He was born in Philadelphia, PA, to wonderful parents, George and Patricia (Earley) Buchanan, both of whom are now with God. Growing up in Cherry Hill, NJ, and later in Reistertown, MD,

 Jim earned his bachelor of science degree at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. He enjoyed a career at Colgate Palmolive in Piscataway, NJ, for over 20 years as a senior flavor chemist and more recently was a senior flavorist of Oral Care Flavors at Takasago International in Rockleigh, NJ, where he formed many great friendships.

Jim was a dedicated and compassionate deacon for the past six years at Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Church in Mercerville, NJ, and he loved his ministry. He was involved in many programs there including RCIA, Renew, and the Rosary Altar Society in addition to his regular duties.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Kathy, and their beloved children, Erin Buchanan of London, England and Captain James Buchanan, USMC of Lorton, VA. Jim has nine cherished siblings, Geri (John) Ambrose of Toms River, NJ; Mary Buchanan of Merchantville, NJ; Regina (David) Curry of Medford, NJ; George Buchanan of Mt. Laurel, NJ; Hugh Buchanan of Mt. Laurel, NJ; Brian Buchanan of Long Beach, CA; Michael (Inga) Buchanan of Copenhagen, Denmark; Matthew Buchanan of Powdered Springs, GA and David (Lisa) Buchanan of Cherry Hill, NJ. Jim is also survived by Mary McGowan, his mother-in-law, as well as many nieces and nephews.

In his spare time, Jim was an avid birdwatcher, opera and nature lover, gourmet cook, joke teller, trivia expert, and gardener. He was also involved as a leader with the Boy Scouts of America for many years. Jim was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the National Audubon Society and The Mint Industry Research Council. Jim was a devoted son, husband, father, brother and friend to so many people. He will be missed so much that it breaks our hearts to say goodbye.

The Rite of Reception will be held on Friday at 3 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 3816 East State Street Extension, Hamilton, with visitation following from 3 to 5 p.m. and 6:30 to 9 p.m. An evening prayer will be held Friday at 8:45 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday at the church. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations may be made in Jim's memory to Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, 3816 East State Street Extension, Mercerville, NJ 08619. Arrangements are under the direction of Saul Colonial Home, Hamilton Square. www.saulfuneralhomes.com.

Published in The Times, Trenton, on March 11, 2010