PLATTSBURGH – Dorothy "Dotte" Buchanan died Friday, January 29, 2021 at home surrounded by her children, Buck and Pat Buchanan and Brooke DuBois. Terri Miller, her devoted caregiver, was also with her in her final days.

Dotte was born November 11, 1921 and raised in Newburgh, NY. A gifted student, she left Newburgh at age 16 to attend college at NYU. She transferred to Russell Sage College where she met her future husband, Ellsworth "Worth" Buchanan of New Paltz, NY. After her graduation in 1943, they were married as wartime permitted. They spent what time they could together in NYC where Mom worked in merchandising for B Altman.

Following the war, they moved to Plattsburgh. She was interested in style and fashion and created many clothes for herself and her daughter on her Singer treadle sewing machine. She was an active volunteer at the Campus School, the Presbyterian Church and scouts. She began teaching at NorthSide PAFB Elementary when it first opened in 1959. Her endless patience and love of children made her classroom a welcome home for her Kindergarteners and pre-readiness first graders. She earned a Masters in Education thereafter. She was a life-long learner and continued taking formal advanced classes as well as community offerings.

Dotte was an active community member for most of her 99 years. In addition to her teaching and church work, she was active in the River Walk effort, Friends of the Library, Kent DeLord House, Garden Club, Stone Soup and the SUNY art gallery, often in leadership roles. For a decade, without a thought for her own needs and with true devotion, she made sure that her beloved husband was as active and engaged in life as possible while he gradually succumbed to Alzheimer's.

Following a harrowing medical emergency in 2016, Dotte also began to need additional assistance. Despite her inability to live independently, she insisted she stay in her home in Plattsburgh where her roots were deep. Terri Miller made that possible. Even when Dotte entered Pine Harbour, Terri continued to be her companion and kept her connected to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Covid deprived Dotte of that support starting in March 2020. She declined throughout the Covid months until she could no longer remain at Pine Harbour. Hospice made it possible for her to return to her home of 71 years where she could be with her family for her final days.

Her grandchildren (Bucky, Samantha, Kimberly, Garrett) and 5 great grandchildren brought her great joy. She was a gracious hostess who, along with her husband, loved to entertain. She especially enjoyed her time in the kitchen and in her flower gardens. She liked walking and the company of two Labradors (and their pups). She was quiet but steadfast and strong, a trooper in very difficult situations. She leaves the legacy of a life well-lived.

A celebration of Dotte's life will take place when Covid allows. In memoriam, gifts may be made to the Kent DeLord House or to Hospice of the North Country.

We will miss you. Rest in peace, Mom. You've more than earned it.

You may share a photo, story, or condolence with the family by visiting www.rwwalkerfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted into the care of the R.W. Walker Funeral Home, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh, NY. (518) 563-1760.