Athens, Tennessee – The close-knit community of Athens is in mourning after the tragic death of 69-year-old Linda Buchanan, a beloved member of the Saint Mark AME Zion Church, who was killed in a devastating fire that consumed the historic church. The fire, which broke out last Thursday, has not only claimed Buchanan’s life but has also left a significant scar on the community, destroying a landmark with deep historical roots.
Linda Buchanan was more than just a member of the congregation; she was an integral part of the church’s life and history. Her unwavering faith and dedication to the church were evident to all who knew her. For decades, she actively participated in church activities, becoming a cherished figure in the congregation. Her sudden and tragic death has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew her.
The fire that engulfed the Saint Mark AME Zion Church was catastrophic. Despite the church’s close proximity to the Athens Fire Department, the flames had already fully engulfed the structure by the time firefighters arrived. The intense fire left the historic building in ruins, with only its brick exterior walls remaining as a stark reminder of what was once a vibrant center of worship and community.
Reverend Tiki Dixon, who leads the congregation, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. With a congregation of 50 to 60 members, Saint Mark AME Zion Church was more than just a place of worship; it was a second home for many, a place where generations gathered to find solace, celebrate, and mourn together. The loss of the church, coupled with Buchanan’s death, has left the congregation grappling with immense grief.
The church’s significance goes beyond its immediate community. It is a historic landmark rooted in the legacy of the Free Hill Community, a settlement established by freed slaves after the Civil War. Athens Mayor Steve Sherlin reflected on the church’s importance as a remnant of a critical chapter in the town’s history. Although he did not know Linda Buchanan personally, her tragic passing has reverberated throughout the community, affecting all who recognize the church’s role in preserving this vital piece of history.
"This has been a very tragic thing for the family, in particular, and for the congregation and the city," Mayor Sherlin stated, highlighting the collective grief felt by the community. Despite the profound loss, the community of Athens is showing remarkable unity and resilience as they come together to support each other during this difficult time.
The rebuilding of Saint Mark AME Zion Church will be a long and challenging process, but Reverend Dixon remains hopeful that the church will rise again, serving as a testament to the faith and perseverance of its congregation and the broader Athens community.