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...

Gothard “Goth” A. Overcash Jr.

Gothard "Goth" A. Overcash Jr.Gothard Albertis Overcash, Jr, "Goth", 90, of Mooresville, NC, peacefully went to be with his Lord and Savior Friday, December 27, 2024. Born April 19, 1934, in Mooresville to the late Gothard Albertis Overcash, Sr and Leona Pierce. In...

Clyde H. Ray III

Clyde H. Ray IIIClyde Hosea Ray III, 86, of Sylva, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of December 22, 2024.  Clyde was born in Waynesville, NC on August 30, 1938, to the late Clyde H. Ray, Jr., businessman, and the Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Caroline...

Henry “Phil” Shook II

Henry "Phil" Shook IIHenry Philander Shook II December 26, 1946 - December 20, 2024 Greensboro-Henry Philander Shook Il (Phil) of Greensboro, age 77, quietly slipped away from his loving wife, Marguerite Verble Jordan Shook (Maggie), who was by his side, on December...