Geraldine Lombardo Buchanan
October 5, 1936 ~ July 24, 2017
Geraldine (“Gerri”) Lombardo Buchanan
October 5, 1936 - July 24, 2017
A jazz “diva” and lover of all things Italian, our beloved mother Geraldine (“Gerri”) Lombardo Buchanan passed away on July 24, 2017 within the loving arms of family and the embrace of prayer and song.
Daughter of the late Amelia Leonardo Lombardo and Guido Joseph Lombardo of Rochester, New York and Pietramelara, Campania, Italy, Gerri was born on October 5, 1936. She attended Nazareth College in Pittsford, New York prior to receiving her B.A. in English from the University of Rochester.
An indomitable spirit and perpetual student, Gerri’s love for education led to her numerous years as an upper elementary school teacher, predominantly at Oak View Elementary School in Fairfax, Virginia. Always a teacher, and as only an English major could, Gerri would readily correct anyone who confused the usage of lie and lay, I and me, and who and whom. Her dedication to education persisted long past her twenty-plus years of teaching, and her enthusiasm for teaching is reflected in her many continued relationships with former pupils.
Her numerous friends attest to her willingness to give of herself, and she was also highly respected by her colleagues— having served Long and Foster Real Estate’s Gold Team for top producers as their elected President. One of her greatest joys was sharing her infinite love for the language, food and culture of Italy, and as President she dazzled over 800 of her colleagues with a uniquely memorable trip to Rome and the Amalfi Coast of Italy.
From madrigals to choir to jazz ensembles, her musical interests were varied. In addition to vocals, her talents included playing the piano and accordion. A long-time member of her parish choir, she also resonated within the broader musical community. Gerri thrilled to gather together a jazz combo- for others as well as for herself- and she cherished the frequent requests for “her” songs, “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square” and “Someone To Watch Over Me”.
Vibrant and dynamic, Gerri embraced life with enthusiasm and verve, and loved to laugh. She was an avid tennis player and horse-lover who loved making and sharing her famous lasagna. When not spending time with her children and grandchildren, or working with her numerous clients and friends, she loved to travel, engage in other cultures, and spend time at the beach. The energy and expanse of the ocean brought her peace, whether in Bethany Beach, Delaware, Naples, Florida, Castine, Maine or in her favorite spot- Ravello on the Amalfi Coast.
Ever since she rescued her first poodle, Fuzz, from the streets of Clifton, Virginia, her dogs were a special love. Her recent canine companions- Campari and the late Amaretto- brought her immeasurable pleasure, comfort, and joy.
Gerri had been married to William Barclay Buchanan for over twenty years and raised five children. She is survived by her children William B., Jr. (Marianne) of New Canaan, Connecticut, Robert D., of Leesburg, Virginia, Dana Marie Buchanan, M.D. (John M. Barsanti, M.D.) of Richmond, Virginia, Alison A. (Michael J. Puleo) of Old Greenwich, Connecticut, and Andrea J. (Christopher M. Garrity) of Wexford, Pennsylvania. Her beloved grandchildren William, Margaret and Charlotte Buchanan, Blaise, Wynne and Colman Barsanti, and Brendan and Carson Garrity and numerous nieces and nephews greatly mourn her passing. In addition, Gerri is also survived by her brother, Joseph G. Lombardo (Marie) of Pittsford, New York.
Visitation hours will be held on Monday, July 31, 2017 between 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Money and King Funeral Home, 171 Maple Avenue W, Vienna, Virginia. A prayer service will be held at 7 p.m. A Funeral Liturgy will be held on Tuesday August 1, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Saint Luke Catholic Church, 7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean, Virginia. Gerri will be laid to rest with her mother and father in Rochester, New York in a private family interment.
In lieu of flowers, and in memory of Gerri, please take a walk on the beach and/or consider a donation to either The Geraldine L. Buchanan Endowment for Music, payable to Saint Luke Catholic Church, 7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean, Virginia 22101, or to Poodle Club of America Rescue Foundation, Inc. (www.poodleclubofamericarescuefoundationinc.org).
For Mom…nightingales continue to sing…
October 5, 1936 - July 24, 2017
A jazz “diva” and lover of all things Italian, our beloved mother Geraldine (“Gerri”) Lombardo Buchanan passed away on July 24, 2017 within the loving arms of family and the embrace of prayer and song.
Daughter of the late Amelia Leonardo Lombardo and Guido Joseph Lombardo of Rochester, New York and Pietramelara, Campania, Italy, Gerri was born on October 5, 1936. She attended Nazareth College in Pittsford, New York prior to receiving her B.A. in English from the University of Rochester.
An indomitable spirit and perpetual student, Gerri’s love for education led to her numerous years as an upper elementary school teacher, predominantly at Oak View Elementary School in Fairfax, Virginia. Always a teacher, and as only an English major could, Gerri would readily correct anyone who confused the usage of lie and lay, I and me, and who and whom. Her dedication to education persisted long past her twenty-plus years of teaching, and her enthusiasm for teaching is reflected in her many continued relationships with former pupils.
Her numerous friends attest to her willingness to give of herself, and she was also highly respected by her colleagues— having served Long and Foster Real Estate’s Gold Team for top producers as their elected President. One of her greatest joys was sharing her infinite love for the language, food and culture of Italy, and as President she dazzled over 800 of her colleagues with a uniquely memorable trip to Rome and the Amalfi Coast of Italy.
From madrigals to choir to jazz ensembles, her musical interests were varied. In addition to vocals, her talents included playing the piano and accordion. A long-time member of her parish choir, she also resonated within the broader musical community. Gerri thrilled to gather together a jazz combo- for others as well as for herself- and she cherished the frequent requests for “her” songs, “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square” and “Someone To Watch Over Me”.
Vibrant and dynamic, Gerri embraced life with enthusiasm and verve, and loved to laugh. She was an avid tennis player and horse-lover who loved making and sharing her famous lasagna. When not spending time with her children and grandchildren, or working with her numerous clients and friends, she loved to travel, engage in other cultures, and spend time at the beach. The energy and expanse of the ocean brought her peace, whether in Bethany Beach, Delaware, Naples, Florida, Castine, Maine or in her favorite spot- Ravello on the Amalfi Coast.
Ever since she rescued her first poodle, Fuzz, from the streets of Clifton, Virginia, her dogs were a special love. Her recent canine companions- Campari and the late Amaretto- brought her immeasurable pleasure, comfort, and joy.
Gerri had been married to William Barclay Buchanan for over twenty years and raised five children. She is survived by her children William B., Jr. (Marianne) of New Canaan, Connecticut, Robert D., of Leesburg, Virginia, Dana Marie Buchanan, M.D. (John M. Barsanti, M.D.) of Richmond, Virginia, Alison A. (Michael J. Puleo) of Old Greenwich, Connecticut, and Andrea J. (Christopher M. Garrity) of Wexford, Pennsylvania. Her beloved grandchildren William, Margaret and Charlotte Buchanan, Blaise, Wynne and Colman Barsanti, and Brendan and Carson Garrity and numerous nieces and nephews greatly mourn her passing. In addition, Gerri is also survived by her brother, Joseph G. Lombardo (Marie) of Pittsford, New York.
Visitation hours will be held on Monday, July 31, 2017 between 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Money and King Funeral Home, 171 Maple Avenue W, Vienna, Virginia. A prayer service will be held at 7 p.m. A Funeral Liturgy will be held on Tuesday August 1, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Saint Luke Catholic Church, 7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean, Virginia. Gerri will be laid to rest with her mother and father in Rochester, New York in a private family interment.
In lieu of flowers, and in memory of Gerri, please take a walk on the beach and/or consider a donation to either The Geraldine L. Buchanan Endowment for Music, payable to Saint Luke Catholic Church, 7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean, Virginia 22101, or to Poodle Club of America Rescue Foundation, Inc. (www.poodleclubofamericarescuefoundationinc.org).
For Mom…nightingales continue to sing…
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Gerri has been an Aunt, fellow Buchanan Outlaw and close family member to all. She helped Debbie and I buy our first home; sold it 14 years later while helping us buy our next great home that was a great home for us right up to this summer. Gerri was working with us on selling this home right up until she had the heart surgery in FLA. She will always hold a special place in our hearts and lives
Dave and Debbie Watt
Gerri was a special friend to Donna and Dan Dinan and to their children during their formative years. As a young boy, son Danny identified her as Gerri Boo and our family used it as an endearment over the years. Donna and Gerri spent many hours together singing in musical groups and donating time to service groups. Our families spent vacation time together at Bethany Beach, DE; shared family picnics and outings; children shared sleepovers and birthdays. Gerri knew the value of her many friendships, nurturing them with presence and heart. She had a wonderful spirit, leaving us with wonderful remembrances and memories. We loved her.
We were so sorry to hear of Gerri’s passing. Your mom was always a star. After a Long and Foster meeting, some of us gathered for an early dinner at a piano bar resturant in Vienna VA.. Gerri was amazing, she took over the room, the piano player knew her and her songs, she belted them out like she’s been a lounge singer all her life. It was wonderful, she made it a memorable evening. Your mom was a really good person, kind and loving and full of life.
I worked with Gerri for 7 years at Oakview School. She was a great mentor to me. Her energy and interests were contagious! We spent a week together in Greece where we must have seen every museum, ruin and island possible. I so admired her as a mother, teacher and friend. Her children meant everything to her. Fondly, Marion