Obituaries

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

Fred C. Ryder

Fred C. RyderAlfred Cornelius (Fred) Ryder III, 82, a third generation Winter Haven resident, died peacefully at home on April 19, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose steady...

Herman G. Shamel

Herman G. ShamelHerman Gray Shamel departed his earthly life at home on April 10th. He was born on August 18th, 1931 to parents Irl J. Shamel and Freda Lineback Shamel. He grew up in the Mt. Tabor Community of Forsyth County. He was the third of four children; three...

William “Ben” Odom

William "Ben" OdomWilliam Bennett (Ben) Odom born November 9, 1956 passed peacefully at home and was promoted to heaven April 9, 2026. A kind and caring soul.  Born 69 years ago in Greensboro NC, son of the late Henry and Mary Odom, brother to three sisters; Janice,...
Philip C. Auton

Philip C. Auton

Philip C. AutonPhilip Auton died early October 10th at Duke Medical Center. He passed peacefully while surrounded by family. Philip was born January 6th, 1965, to Linda and David, and grew up on the mean streets of Draco Road in Oak Hill, outside of Lenoir, NC. After...

Mary C. Marshburn

Mary C. Marshburn

Mary C. MarshburnMary Carter Marshburn, age 74, of Lumberton, NC passed away on October 9, 2024 after a long illness. She was the much-loved wife of Wayne Marshburn and the mother of two sons, Nathan and Adam. Born in 1950 at Falls of  Neuse, NC, she was a 1968...

Paulette R. Campbell

Paulette R. Campbell

Paulette R. CampbellPaulette Rae Campbell, age 71, of Largo, Florida, with family connections in Traunik, died unexpectedly at her home on October 6th, 2024. She was born on June 2nd, 1953, in Pontiac and was the second oldest child of the late William and Emilie...