Bruce Gilmore Buchanan

Bruce Gilmore Buchanan, 64, of Friendship Street, Providence, died Friday, November 24th, at his home following his brief battle with cancer.  

Born and raised in Providence, Bruce or Uncle Bae-Bae as he was passionately called by family was the son of the late jazz musician, Duke Buchanan, and long-time community activist, Charlotte Woods.  In his early years, Mr. Buchanan worked in construction and then pursued his passion for dancing and being the life of the party.  He was the Director of the Southside Soul steppers, a marching band from Rhode Island that traveled to various states on the East Coast. 

Bruce was not afraid to walk on the “wild” side in terms of fashion.  Whether it was his famous top hats, picture perfect hair styles or exotic suits, Mr. Buchanan walked to his own beat.  Anytime there was a family event, music playing or a party, you could always find Bruce on the dance floor jamming.

After graduating from Central High School in 1972 he spent several years in California.  While there, Bruce held a myriad of jobs but his affinity for children and performance began to evolve.  Bruce had exquisite taste buds as he enjoyed breads of all kinds and also loved candy and soda and enjoyed an occasional drink or two, Gin being his preferred choice

Mr. Buchanan had a passion for old television shows and teaching and working with children.  He had an amazing sense of humor and really lit up every room he entered and he will be sorely missed.

He leaves behind children, Bruce Buchanan (44) and Joyce Buchanan (37), his beloved brother, caretaker and best friend, Joseph P. Buchanan, and sisters, Duchess Buchanan-Colon and Denise Dennis, 7 grandchildren (Chelsea LaPorte, Dae-shon Buchanan, Xyon Buchanan, Ah’neal Holley, Jayden  Buchanan, Ty’onnah Buchanan, Terrance Buchanan and Jaziah Buchanan along with several nieces and nephews that loved him dearly.  He was the father of the late Douglas Allen Buchanan and the brother of the late Douglas Allen Comer.

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