On February 19th, 1951, an unstoppable force of nature was unleashed into the world. His name was Archibald Hinson Buchan III, son of Harriet Elam Cockfield and Elmore Smith Buchan. The youngest of three, Archie grew up in Mullins, SC surrounded by family and friends. By all accounts it was a magical childhood. He had many exciting adventures, some of which were documented in his semi-autobiographical, sometimes true book, Bare Feet & Back Roads.

He attended Woodberry Forest School for Boys (without girls) from 1965-1969. There he made many friends, discovered hidden talents, broke a few hearts, exasperated a few teachers and one headmaster. Archie went on to USC in Columbia, graduating with a degree in English. He served in the South Carolina State Legislature from 1978-1982, until poor judgement on the part of his constituents forced him to retire. He went on to hone his myriad skills as a banker, men's clothier, sometimes-bridge-player, t-shirt salesman, teacher, computer salesman, graphic designer, published author, and ultimately father-- his truest calling. He dazzled on the stage and in life. He was quote "a shining light in a pit of darkness" and "grand and glorious, a shining example of what every man should be."

He left this world on September 2nd, 2023 after a brief but virulent battle with cancer. Cancer did not win. Archie left on his own terms in his own time surrounded by the family he adored. He is survived by his wife Eleanor, son John-Smith, daughter Catherine, and all the many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, in-laws, and friends. His light and indomitable spirit shone brightly. Funny, loving, talented (oh so talented), irreverent, and larger than life, he graced us all and will be forever missed. 

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