Obituaries

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

Kate D. Welch

by | June 12, 2026 | 1957, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Kate D. WelchKate Deitz Welch, 91, of Bryson City peacefully passed from this earthly life on June 6, 2026, at home with her family present. Kate was born March 15, 1935, to the late Hoyle and Inez Deitz of Dillsboro. She graduated from Western Carolina University in...
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Sally M. Monteith

by | June 12, 2026 | 1941, 1955, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Sally M. MonteithSally Campbell, age 108, a Jackson County high school English and Journalism teacher for 34 years died at her home on Friday, June 5th. A native and lifelong resident of Sylva, she was the daughter of the late Sam and Ida Monteith and the wife of...
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Philip D. Buchahan

by | June 12, 2026 | 1966, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Philip D. BuchahanPhilip Dean Buchanan was born on Dec. 26, 1943 in the lovely town of Sylva in the North Carolina mountains to Thomas Dewey Buchanan and Inez Vesta Carver Buchanan. He attended Western Carolina University for his undergraduate work. Here, his...
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Joseph “Joe” B. Miller

Joseph “Joe” B. Miller

Joseph "Joe" B. Miller Joseph Brian Miller 50, left his earthly family to be with his heavenly family on Oct. 13, 2024 in the presence of his loved ones at Novent Presbyterian Hospital in Charlotte, N.C.   Joe was an avid fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed living life...

James “Jim” W. Matthews

James “Jim” W. Matthews

James William Matthews, a loving husband, father and friend, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, October 11, 2024. A private graveside service will be held at 2 pm Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, at Overlook Mausoleum.  A memorial celebration will be held at 2 pm on...

Summer L. Harwell

Summer L. Harwell

Summer L. HarwellSummer Leighann Harwell, 46, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2024 at Robin Johnson Hospice House with her loving family by her side. She was born in Gaston County, North Carolina, to James and Melinda Harwell. She is preceded in death by her...