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,...
James R. Richardson

James R. Richardson

James R. RichardsonJames Richardson, 91, entered the gates of Heaven on September 4, 2024, in Decatur, GA. James Richardson was born on August 2, 1933 in Asheville, NC, to Charles E. Richardson and Martha Sue Richardson. James graduated from Asheville City High School...

Bill R. Marchant

Bill R. Marchant

Bill R. Marchant Billy "Bill" Marchant, 79, of Gastonia passed away September 7, 2024 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. He was born September 14, 1944 in Gaston County, NC, a son of the late Fred Bridges Marchant and Dorothy Glover Marchant Woody. Bill graduated...

Lynn B. Davis

Lynn B. Davis

Lynn B. DavisLynn B. Davis, 69, wife of James Donald Davis, of Seneca, passed away on Monday, September 9, 2024, at Cottingham Hospice House. Born in Fort Huachuca, AZ and raised in Asheville, NC, Mrs. Davis was the daughter of the late Roderick H. and Loraine Kurth...