“In Loving Memory”
Astin Buchanan
Tarrant County 9-1-1 District, Data Base Manager
(written by Bill Munn, Executive Director)
Astin worked as a 911 professional for both the Bexar Metro 911 District and the Commission on State Emergency Communications (Texas) before I persuaded her to join the staff of the Tarrant County 9-1-1 District in 1996.
Originally our Data Base Manager, Astin expanded her depth of knowledge and responsibility to include all of our information systems and became our go-to person on issues of wireless integration. Under her leadership, the Tarrant County 9-1-1 District implemented Phase II service early in 2003. Her no-nonsense approach to accuracy and her insistence on excellence left a true legacy in our district and in our state.
Her abilities in wireless led to her being elected Chair of ESIF, which she assumed in 2004.
Shortly after January 1, Astin was diagnosed with invasive ductile cancer. Eleven radiation treatments left her emaciated and violently ill. When it became apparent that the treatments had not restored normal function, and her outlook was grim, Astin made the courageous decision to discontinue treatments and allow nature to take its course.
Those of us who loved her, and there were many, said our goodbyes over the last two weeks. Sunday, March 13, barely 60 days after the initial diagnosis, Astin slipped away peacefully and painlessly.
In the end, she had taught us not only lessons in professionalism and excellence, but how to die with dignity and grace.
Astins memorial service will be held Saturday, March 19, at 6pm at the Celebration Community Church, 908 Pennsylvania Avenue, Fort Worth. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made in her honor to the Prague High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund and can be sent to her address, 5111 Chapel Springs Dr., Arlington, TX 76017.
Bill Munn