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...

Linda J. Tinsley

Linda J. TinsleyLinda Jones Tinsley passed away peacefully at 6 a.m., Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. She is survived by and will be greatly missed by her son, Jason (Tracy) Pope; daughter, Crissy Pope; granddaughter, Rachel Pletcher; grandson, Eric Sobecki; and siblings,...

Jane V. Reece

Jane V. ReeceJane Vernon Reece of Zephyrhills, Florida, passed away on September 3, 2024. Jane was the daughter of May Mitchell Reece and Vernon Lewis Reece of Cramerton, NC. After graduation from Cramerton High School, Jane continued her education at Presbyterian...

Cindy L. Pearsall

Cindy L. PearsallCynthia “Cindy” Lea Pearsall passed away on September 4th, 2024 in Little River, SC. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Mahala Pearsall, four nieces and nephews, Erin Pearsall Aderholdt, Bree Pearsall, Jillian Pearsall, Zakary Pearsall, and seven...