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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William “Bill” McGimsey

William “Bill” McGimseyWilliam Claywell McGimsey ( Bill or Billy to everyone) passed away on Tuesday, Sept 3, 2024 of heart failure at the age of 69 in his usual style, quietly and on his terms, having just passed his birthday on August 28. Bill was the son of Dr....

Lana H. Jones

Lana H. JonesLana Holmes Jones, 81, of Etowah, NC, and former educator of Henderson County Public Schools, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2024, at The Landings of Mills River after an extended illness. She was born August 7, 1943, in Huntington, WV, to the...

Sharon P. Johnson

Sharon P. JohnsonSharon Powell Johnson, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2024. Born on June 14, 1941, in Hendersonville, NC, Sharon was the daughter of James Reid Powell and Edna Love Powell. She was the cherished...