Maria Josephina Buchanan was born and raised in New York City, by her parents Olimpia and Vicente Rivera. She retired as a Commissioner with the NY State Division of Parole, having the distinction of being the first Latina in state history appointed to that position. Before this she had a 30+ year career as social worker/supervisor with the NYC Family Court/Probation system. She also served as a director with the Puerto Rican Association for Community Affairs. Maria was a NYU (MSW) and Hunter College (BA) graduate. She was known for creating innovative court programs aimed at reducing recidivism with at-risk youth. Throughout her career she was an advocate, activist, and organizer in the field of criminal justice and on issues impacting the Hispanic community.

Married for over 50 years to the musician Lloyd Buchanan (deceased 2015), Maria was a loving and devoted wife. She is survived by the Buchanan children (Patsy, Carole, Yvonne, and Norman), grandchildren (Mason, Camille, Tanice, and Christopher), her cousins (Frederick, Vincent, and Christina Brewington), and others (the Robles family) who loved her deeply. Maria’s kindness, generosity and patience was legendary among her family and friends. Knowing her was a blessing.