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...

Jack L. Galloway

Jack L. Galloway Jack Lane Galloway, 79, formerly of Cullowhee, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Tennessee, on Dec. 29, 2024 after an extended struggle with Alzheimer’s. Jack was born on Feb. 17, 1945 to the late Terry and Zephia Parker Galloway of...

Geraldine “Jeri” S. Roberts

Geraldine "Jeri" S. RobertsJeri Ruth Smith Roberts, age 87, of the Martin’s Creek Community, Murphy, passed away, Saturday, December 28, 2024 at a Hayesville care facility. Born March 5, 1937 in Murphy, she was the daughter of the late Allen Grady and Florence C....

Leslie Anderson

Leslie AndersonLeslie Anderson, a distinguished long-time civic leader in Asheville, North Carolina, passed away on December 27, 2024, following a brief battle with multiple illnesses. Renowned as a champion of social justice, cultural preservation, early childhood...