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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Michael C. Handley

Michael C. Handley Michael Handley was born March 2, 1973, in Plantation, Florida, to Bill and Joyce Handley. Michael's family, which included an older brother, Billy, moved to Franklin, when he was in the second grade. He had a small-town childhood with neighborhood...

Elwin “Ed” Dalton

Elwin “Ed” DaltonElwin Edward “Ed” Dalton passed away peacefully at home at the age of 76 on Monday August 26th, 2024 surrounded by his daughters after a brief illness. He was born on January 30, 1948 to Edward Henry “Bud” Dalton and Betty Louise Thompson Dalton in...

Keith E. P. Payne

Keith E. P. PayneOn Saturday, August 17th, Keith Payne, a husband, coach, father, and teacher passed away unexpectedly in his home due to a heart attack. He is survived by his wife, Rachel Payne, his son, Ben Payne, his daughter, Anna Payne, his father, Harry Payne,...