Amanda Katherine Buss

In Loving Memory of Amanda Katherine Buss

Amanda Katherine Buss, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, teammate, friend and a true warrior at heart. Born on February 9, 1978, Amanda left this world on February 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination.

Amanda was not only a philanthropist but also a passionate advocate for those who needed a voice. Her commitment to helping others knew no bounds, and she dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of those needing support or a voice. She was a change agent, a beacon of hope, and a source of inspiration for everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Amanda’s tenacity was unmatched; she would not take no for an answer and faced every challenge with unwavering resolve.

Amanda battled breast cancer for 19 years including 15 years of metastatic breast cancer, showing remarkable strength and positivity. Her journey was a testament to her resilience and her unyielding spirit. She never gave up and always found the courage to continue her battle against the disease that ultimately took her from us much too young.

Throughout her professional life, Amanda served in various roles that allowed her to marry her passion for helping people with her career in social work. She was a staunch advocate for underprivileged children and youth, individuals with special needs, and those affected by cancer. Amanda’s dedication to her work was evident in every endeavor she undertook.

She spent several years as the Executive Director of the Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley. During her tenure, Amanda’s tireless efforts resulted in raising more funds, hosting more fundraising events, and achieving more publicity and notoriety for the organization than they ever thought possible. Her impact on the community was immeasurable, and her legacy will continue to inspire others to carry on her mission.

Amanda was a fixture in the Lehigh Valley, known and loved by many. Her infectious smile, positive outlook, spontaneity, and willingness to embrace any adventure made her the first choice for anyone looking for fun or a plus one. She had a unique ability to light up any room and make everyone feel welcome and valued. She was a connector. She brought people together.

Amanda, a Phillipsburg High School graduate, was a passionate Stateliner setting a basketball free throw record. A proud graduate of East Stroudsburg University, Amanda embodied the spirit of their mascot and was an ESU Warrior in every sense of the word. She was a force on and off the basketball court, a fierce competitor, and a passionate and loving teammate. Amanda’s love for the game of basketball and the unity of her team fueled her competitive spirit, which later gave her the will and determination to fight cancer for nearly two decades of her life.

Amanda is survived by her daughter, Madalyn Buss, the light of her life and her proudest accomplishment. She was separated from, but remained close with, her husband, Mark Sivak. Amanda is survived by her mother, Sherrie Fye-Kelly, and her husband, Patrick Kelly; her father, William Buss; her sister, Heather Altieri, her husband Ron, and their children Brenna and Brayden. She is also survived by maternal grandparents, Marylou Marazi and her partner Lee Kelly, Richard Fye and his partner Nancy Costenbader, Elizabeth Kelly. Amanda was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Maribelle and Arthur Buss Sr., her half-brother, Brandon Buss (children Mya and Damien), and Peter Kelly, grandfather.

The world has lost a remarkable woman, but Amanda’s legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering determination will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She touched countless lives with her compassion and dedication, and her memory will continue to inspire us all to be better, to do more, and to never give up, no matter the challenges we face.

As we say goodbye to Amanda, we honor her life and the incredible impact she had on her community. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her fight is over, but her legacy will live on forever.

A memorial service officiated by Pastor Jon Schwartz will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 9:30 am at Life Church located at 4609 Newburg Rd, Nazareth, PA 18064. In accordance with Amanda’s wishes, please dress comfortably. She requested color and comfort over black and formal attire. To honor our country music lover, we kindly encourage you to consider wearing a pair of cowboy boots if you own them.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Amanda’s honor to Casting For Recovery at Casting for Recovery | Ways to Give (Amanda was a fly fishing enthusiast), Unite For Her at https://uniteforher.org/donate/ or The Joseph H Firth Youth Center at Support – Joseph H. Firth Youth Center.