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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Charles “Tommy” Koontz

Charles "Tommy" KoontzCharles Thomas “Tommy” Koontz, Sr. passed away surrounded by his loving family on Monday, December 9, 2024 at the age of 92. A lifelong resident of Buncombe County, he devoted his life to serving his Lord, his family, Biltmore Church, Buncombe...

Estelle W. Pendergrass

Estelle W. PendergrassEstelle Walters Pendergrass, 81, of Thomasville, passed away Saturday morning, December 7, 2024, at her residence. Estelle was born to the late Henry Terrell Walters and Trula Wagner Walters in Thomasville. She was a member of the final...

Jo A. Schilling

Jo A. Schilling Our cherished friend, Jo Schilling, went home to be with the Lord on December 7, 2024. Jo was born in Roanoke, VA, and she lived her first 35 years there. She is preceded in death by her father, J. Eldridge Schilling, mother, Rebecca Schilling,...