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,...
Joe D’Alessandris

Joe D’Alessandris

Joe D'AlessandrisWestern Carolina Athletics and Catamount football today mourn the loss of WCU Athletics Hall of Famer and former football player Joe D'Alessandris (1954-2024) who passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 70. The offensive line coach for the...

Jackie R. Boone

Jackie R. Boone

Jackie R. BooneJacquelyn "Jackie" Rose Boone, 81, of Arden, died Sunday, August 25, 2024 at Mission Hospital. A native of Mitchell County, Jackie was the daughter of the late Lamar and Wilma Johnson Rose. She was also preceded in death by a sister, Elizabeth "Libby"...

Edward D. Anderson

Edward D. Anderson

Edward D. Anderson   Edward David Anderson, age 74, Kingston, Tennessee, passed away Saturday, August 31st, 2024 at his home. He was born December 5, 1949 in Robbinsville, North Carolina and was a 1968 graduate of Robbinsville High School. He went on to receive his...