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

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...

Sherry F. Ginn

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...

Ellen Nuzum Wetmore

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...

Peter H. Sprague

Peter H. SpraguePeter Hale Sprague, Sr., 93, of Asheville, NC, passed away on January 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He made it to the 24th, a special day for his late wife and family. Affectionately known as “Pop” or “Peter Rabbit,” Peter will be...

Karen “Kay” Cook

Karen "Kay" CookKaren "Kay" Cook, age 71, of Asheville, NC passed away on January 22, 2025 in Asheville, NC. Karen was born in Charleston, SC on October 4, 1953 to the late Leslie Cook and Beatrice Cook. Kay is preceded in death by her nephew, Matthew Cook. She is...

Larry “Tutt” N. Tuttle

Larry "Tutt" N. TuttleLarry Neal Tuttle “Tutt”, 91, passed away peacefully at Four Seasons Hospice in Flat Rock on January 22, 2025. He was born December 9, 1933 in Mayodan, NC to Neal and Earlie Tuttle. He is preceded in death by his brother, Jerome Tuttle and...