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

by | October 29, 2026 | 1979, 1983, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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...
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Sherry F. Ginn

by | October 29, 2026 | 1974, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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...
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Ellen Nuzum Wetmore

by | October 26, 2026 | 1973, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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...
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Mary Kathryn S. Israel

Mary Kathryn S. IsraelMary Kathryn Seagle Israel, 95, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 20, 2025, in Candler, NC. Born in Kingsport, TN, Mary Kathryn was the only child of the late Daniel Henry and Veva Deal Seagle, both natives of Catawba County. She was also...

John “Dillard” Phillips

John "Dillard" PhillipsJohn "Dillard" Phillips, 80, of Gastonia, passed away Saturday, January 18, 2025 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center after a short battle with prostate cancer.  He was born May 9, 1944 in Newport News, Virginia, a son of the late Jake and Irene...

Kim T. Whitehurst

Kim T. WhitehurstKim Tyler Whitehurst, 69, after a long and faithful search, was found on Friday, January 17. The family is left to find peace in his passing. He was born in Greenville, NC on March 22, 1955, to the late Juanita Marflin Horner and James Elbert...