Theresa Lou Buchanan

Theresa Lou Buchanan, 77,  a woman whose life was marked by dedication to family and community, passed away on March 20, 2026, at WVU Ruby Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. Born on May 6, 1949, in Steubenville, Ohio, Theresa embraced each chapter of her life with warmth, resilience, and unyielding grace.

Her professional journey was distinguished by her commitment to serving others, initially through her work with Children Services, where her compassionate spirit shone brightly. In her later years, she shared her warmth and kindness as a cashier at Royal King, becoming a familiar and cherished presence to many.

Theresa's true passions were found in the quiet joys of cooking, tending to her garden, and her profound love for cats—each reflecting a nurturing nature that extended beyond her professional life into her personal world. She nurtured not only plants and pets but the hearts of those around her.

She was the beloved mother of three devoted children: Deanne (Joe) Roy of St. Clairsville, William "Billy" Dornbush of Hopedale, and Jamie (Bob) Kerns of Follansbee. A proud grandmother, Theresa’s greatest pride was her four grandchildren—Shaylynn (Colin) Schwartz of Columbus, A.J. Dornbush of Bloomingdale, Tabytha Kerns of Follansbee, and Alexis Kerns of Steubenville. This joy extended to a cherished great-grandchild, Lainey Jane Schwartz, whose presence illuminated Theresa’s latter days.

Theresa’s life was shaped by the memory of those who preceded her: her parents, Everett Dale Jr. and Naomi (Knight) Watson, as well as her sister Bev Mann and brother Harry Watson. Their legacies lived on through her, a testament to the enduring bonds of family.

She leaves behind a tapestry of memories woven with love, strength, and an enduring spirit. Theresa Lou Buchanan’s legacy will forever be cherished by those who knew her, embodying the grace and dignity with which she faced life’s joys and trials.

In honoring her memory, those who wish may contribute to animal charities close to their hearts, reflecting Theresa’s tender affection for all creatures great and small. In this way, her kindness will continue to touch lives beyond her own.

Theresa's journey may have ended, but her story remains—a beautiful, eloquent testament to a life well-lived and a heart profoundly loved.

To leave a condolence visit www.schuetzfuneralhome.com