Obituaries

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

Dr. Michael Willis

Dr. Michael Bryson Willis, 69, of Franklin, NC, passed away Monday, October 26, 2026. A native of Macon County, Michael was born to the late James Garland Willis and Sue Ann Bryson Willis. He dedicated his life to music education, inspiring countless students...

Sherry F. Ginn

Sherry Fox Ginn passed away on October 20, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on July 4, 1944, she lived a life of service, care, and dedication to others. Sherry was a graduate of Swain County High School and later earned a master’s degree in education from Western...

Ellen Nuzum Wetmore

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ellen Nuzum Wetmore, 75, of Pauline, SC. After a 23 year battle with cancer, Ellen passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026 at the SRI Hospice Home, surrounded by family. Born May 15, 1951, in Newton, NC, she...

Ruth M. Landreth

Ruth M. LandrethRuth MacLean Landreth, age 81, of Newburyport, passed away peacefully at Anna Jaques Hospital on March 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born in Biddeford, Maine, on February 5, 1944, Ruth was the daughter of the late Eliot B. and...

Karen E. Cody

Karen E. CodyFrom the moment Karen Elaine Colleen Cody entered this world on February 19, 1955, she brought joy and happiness to all who knew her. On this day, we are deeply saddened by her passing on Sunday, March 2, 2025, into her glorious place of eternal peace....

Dr. Betty N. Gaddy

Dr. Betty N. GaddyDr. Betty Louise Masters Nelon Gaddy, 87, went to be with the Lord on February 28, 2025. She was the daughter of the late Stanley Masters and Martha Terrell Masters. She was preceded in death by her first husband, George A. Nelon, Jr., her second...