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,...
John L. Bassett

John L. Bassett

John L. BassettJohn Lewis Bassett “JB”, age 69, of Southern Pines, NC passed away on September 16, 2024. John was born in Philadelphia, PA, September 20, 1954 to C. Gregory Bassett Jr. and Berneice Byrd Bassett. John was a graduate of Western Carolina University and...

Jeremy C. Angel

Jeremy C. Angel

Jeremy C. AngelJeremy Chad Angel was born to Larry and Brenda Angel on Aug. 27, 1976, in Macon County. He grew up in the Cullasaja community, attended Cullasaja Elementary and was a member of Cullasaja Assembly of God. Jeremy's curiosity and fearlessness sometimes got...

Ted M. Yoder

Ted M. Yoder

Ted M. YoderTed Murray Yoder wasn’t just a participant in life—he orchestrated it like a grand narrative, rich with family connections, political debates, and, of course, his beloved WCU Catamounts. Born in 1954, Ted’s true "era" was whenever there was a lively...