Nancy Marie Sherman

Nancy Marie Sherman

October 15, 1934 – October 2, 2026

Nancy Marie Sherman passed away on October 2, 2026, following a long illness, just 13 days before her 92nd birthday. She will be remembered for her warmth, enthusiasm for life, devotion to her church, and many years of service to the Lahaina, Maui, community she loved.

Nancy was born in Middletown, Ohio, to Raymond Earl Sherman Sr. and Thelma L. (Keuthan) Sherman, both of whom preceded her in death. She graduated from Middletown High School in 1952 and later pursued higher education in California.

Throughout her life, Nancy lived in several places, including Colorado and California, before making her home in Lahaina in the 1990s. It was there that she became deeply involved in the community and devoted much of her time and energy to serving others. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert “Buck” H. Buchanan, in 2012, and her older brother, Raymond Earl Sherman, who died in the 1980s.

Nancy’s passion for the arts and dedication to young people were evident during her ten years as Executive Director of Theatre Maui, a children’s summer theater program. Through this work, she helped foster creativity and a love of the performing arts in young people.

Her faith was another important part of her life. Nancy was a longtime and devoted member of Holy Innocents Episcopal Church in Lahaina, where she served in numerous leadership roles, including vestry member, Junior Warden, and treasurer. She also served on the Board of Directors of Holy Innocents Preschool and was its secretary for many years. A cherished member of the church community, Nancy sang soprano in the choir and shared her love of music, fellowship, and service with those around her.

Nancy embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. She enjoyed swimming in her pool and staying active through exercise classes at the senior citizens center. She was a loyal friend whose warmth, generosity, and spirited nature touched the lives of many. Alongside her husband, Buck, she was a committed and involved member of West Maui, caring deeply about the community and advocating for its future.

Animals held a special place in Nancy’s heart. She delighted in the pets of friends and neighbors, as well as her own beloved cat, Beau, and her rescued mynah bird, Major Mynah. She also looked after the many neighborhood cats that found their way into her life. Her compassion for animals was another reflection of her generous and caring spirit.

In August 2023, after the Lahaina fire destroyed her home, Nancy returned to Middletown, Ohio, where she had lived since. During the final several years of her life, as she faced illness, she was lovingly cared for by her devoted sister-in-law, Dorothy Jean Sherman, her beloved nephew, Ronald Dale Sherman, and his wife, Ildiko. Their care and dedication provided Nancy with comfort and support during a difficult chapter of her life.

Nancy will be remembered for her love of family and friends, her devotion to her church, her commitment to the arts and the Lahaina community, and her boundless affection for animals. She lived with enthusiasm, served with dedication, and formed friendships that endured. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A memorial service is pending. Details will be announced at a later date.

Please visit SpauldingFuneralHome.com to leave online condolences for the family.