Obituaries

Celebrate and remember those from our precious alma mater who have passed. We send our deepest condolences to the families and friends.

Ryan E. McCurry

Ryan E. McCurryEric 'Ryan' McCurry, age 44 of Charlotte NC, died August 11, 2025. He was born in Morganton NC on March 30, 1981 to Shirley Jean Buchanan (Crowe) and Eric Donald McCurry. Ryan attended Freedom High and earned a BA in Criminal Justice from Western...

Gerald “Bob” Denny

Gerald "Bob" DennyMr. Denny passed away at home with family on Tuesday, August 5th , 2025 at age 93 following an extended period of declining health. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley Hill Denny; his son Blake; his son Scott and spouse Monica; his...

Louise W. Sowell

Louise W. SowellLouise Worley Sowell, 94, of Inman, died on July 31, 2025 at her home. A native of Canton NC, she was the  daughter of the late Robert Haskew and Mary Alma Tillery Worley and the wife of the late Joseph Huey Sowell. She was a homemaker and former...
Lonnie “Clarence” Towe

Lonnie “Clarence” Towe

Lonnie "Clarence" ToweLonnie Clarence Towe was born March 7, 1944, to Clarence Stephen and Irene Haynes Towe. He was the brother of the late Teresa Towe Keese. Clarence loved his family, his friends, his plants, and the students of Oconee County. He is survived by...

Miriam W. Smith

Miriam W. Smith

Miriam W. SmithMiriam Wilson Smith, 80, of Huntersville, NC passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at her residence. She was born on September 5, 1944 to Laura Alexander Wilson and John Hinman Wilson in north Mecklenburg County. Miriam attended Long Creek Elementary...

Barbara J. Smart

Barbara J. Smart

Barbara J. SmartNC - Barbara Jane Johnson Smart-Smith departed her earthly life and went to be with Jesus early Wednesday morning, May 28, 2025. She was 90 years old. Barbara was born Jan. 14, 1935, in Morganton, NC, to Charles G. and Alice W. Johnson. She graduated...