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

by | October 29, 2026 | 1979, 1983, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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...
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Sherry F. Ginn

by | October 29, 2026 | 1974, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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...
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Ellen Nuzum Wetmore

by | October 26, 2026 | 1973, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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...
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Charles “Chuck” W. Graham Jr.

Charles "Chuck" W. Graham Jr.Charles W. Graham, Jr. (Chuck) left this world on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 after an extended illness. He was born on June 1, 1943 and leaves behind family, many friends and a list of students and clients who depended on his abilities to...

Christopher “Ed” Hamlet

Christopher "Ed" HamletEd Hamlet, 81, of Sylva passed away quietly at home on February 24, 2025. He was born and raised in Durham, NC, the son of the late Chris and Virginia Hamlet. Ed served in the US Army in the mid-60s, then returned to Durham and UNC- Chapel Hill...

John P. Whitman

John P. Whitman John Perry Whitman, of Monticello, Georgia, passed away on February 21, 2025, at the age of 95. John was born in Greenwood, South Carolina, the son of the late Dwitt Farnaid Whitman and Maggie Dominick Whitman. John was a proud Army Veteran and served...