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...

Bill R. Marchant

Bill R. Marchant Billy "Bill" Marchant, 79, of Gastonia passed away September 7, 2024 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. He was born September 14, 1944 in Gaston County, NC, a son of the late Fred Bridges Marchant and Dorothy Glover Marchant Woody. Bill graduated...

Lynn B. Davis

Lynn B. DavisLynn B. Davis, 69, wife of James Donald Davis, of Seneca, passed away on Monday, September 9, 2024, at Cottingham Hospice House. Born in Fort Huachuca, AZ and raised in Asheville, NC, Mrs. Davis was the daughter of the late Roderick H. and Loraine Kurth...

Zack J. Schneider

Zack J. SchneiderThis scholarship honors the memory of Zachary Schneider, a 2023 graduate of Western Carolina University who passed away on August 17, 2024. Raised in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Zack was a lifelong learner and creative individual. His passion for...