Jenna Martin Buchanan's Obituary
Jenna Martin Buchanan, 79, was born July 3, 1944 in Houston, Texas to Pete and Nina Martin. She passed away peacefully on January 4, 2024 at her home in Spring, Texas. Jenna was proceeded in death by her husband Robert “Bob” Buchanan and her brother James Martin. She is survived by her son Robert “Trae” Buchanan, daughter Pam Gonzalez (Jose), grandsons James “J.J.” Gonzalez (Brittaney), Andrew “Drew” Gonzalez, granddaughter Kendall Cunningham (Daniel), great-grandchildren Witten and Landry Gonzalez, Ethan, Emma and Everett Cunningham and Best Friend Judy Jackson.
Jenna was a lifelong resident of Houston and graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School which is where Bob Buchanan, the LOVE of her life, also attended. She met Bob through mutual friends in the summer of 1961 at Garner State Park. They had their first date the very next day, their wedding that following summer and two kids within the next two years. Family life had begun.
Her entire life, Jenna’s priority was always her family. From scout leader to room mom, she was involved in every aspect of her children’s lives. She was always there – a listening ear to friends of all ages. She made sure the Buchanan house was full of love, laughter, and a homecooked meal. Her motto “there is always room for one more, and the more the merrier!” epitomized her home where everyone was welcome and made to feel like family.
She also took on the role of caring for her grandmother daily and then later her mother-in-law and mother. As a grandmother, she picked up her grandchildren every day after school, further cementing her multi-generational family bond.
In the 1980’s, her love of antiques prompted her and Bob to open an antique store and auction house. Her greatest love was her customers, most of whom soon became friends.
There really are not enough words to sum up the life and legacy of Jenna Buchanan. A few of her favorite things were Houston “Luv Ya Blue” Oilers, dancing with her beloved Bob, floating down the Frio River, antiques, and of course, her family and friends. She was “Jen Jen” to three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren who were her pride and joy. She made us all better by example and our lives will be forever richer because we knew what it felt like to be LOVED by her. She will be greatly missed by everyone.
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