Norma Wright Buchanan

Norma Wright Buchanan, a beacon of strength, love, and unwavering commitment, passed peacefully on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026, in her cherished hometown of Ogden, Utah. Born on March 16, 1931, Norma’s life was a vivid tapestry woven with spirited determination, deep family devotion, and a steadfast dedication to community and faith.

A native daughter of Ogden, she received her early education at Washington Elementary and Junior High School before graduating from Ogden High School’s class of 1949.

She married Quinn Beckstead and shared 20 years together. They built a home in Huntsville and raised 10 acres of raspberries and a hen house full of chickens. She married Thomas G Buchanan, “Tom” in 1972 whom she was married to until his passing in 2015. Norma’s pursuit of knowledge was relentless and inspiring. After raising her children, she went to college and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Weber State College in the mid 1980's.

Norma spent 16 years of service as an information officer for the US Forest Service in Ogden and 18 years in the engineering department of Hill Air Force Base logistics before retiring and spending a number of years traveling with Tom in their RV across the U.S.

Norma was the primary organizer of many family parties and reunions that were held at Bear Lake, parks and stake centers. Her upbeat disposition was infectious that created joy, happiness and memories for all who attended.

Faith was the cornerstone of Norma’s life. She was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She held numerous callings, including three times as Relief Society President, the last time when she was age 90. Her compassion and devotion touched many lives. She also served in the Omaha Nebraska Mission later in her life and proudly embraced her heritage as a member of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers and was an engaged participant in conserving the history of her community through involvement with the Ogden Union Station preservation.

Norma was dedicated to her health and was an active walker her entire life. Up until the past few years she was diligent in getting her walk almost every day up to 4 miles through her early 90's, inspiring many others to get out and go for a walk!

Norma is survived by her three sons, Mitchel (Rena) Beckstead, Jon (Marilyn) Beckstead, and James (Maria) Beckstead; and her son-in-law, Todd Howard; proud grandmother to 18 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren; and special family friend Snow Smith. Norma had many dear friends at Harrison Regent that she cherished her time with and considered them to be a part of her family.

Norma was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Buchanan; her twin daughters, Jean and Joan, Nancy Howard; parents, Raymond and Florence Wright; and siblings, Ray II, Arvilla, Sam, and Gilbert.

Norma was devoted to family, friends, and community. In her passing, we are reminded of the power of a life well-lived, full of love, inspiration, and relentless optimism. Her memory will be a blessing to all that new her.

Special thanks to Misty Ruiz who gave such compassionate and loving care to Norma over the past year. We are very grateful to her.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. Friends may visit with family on Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the mortuary. Interment, Lindquist’s Washington Heights Memorial Park, 4500 Washington Blvd.