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...

Cathy B. Moore

Cathy B. MooreCathy Brooks Moore, 61, passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at her residence. Cathy was a life long resident of Jackson County and a daughter of the late Burnette and Carolyn Brooks Green. Cathy was a graduate of Sylva Webster High School and she...

Sheila J. Harper

Sheila J. HarperShelia Jane McMinn Harper passed away Saturday afternoon, July 13, 2024. She is survived by her daughter Kelly Dotson Roberts and son-in-law Charles "David" Roberts. Shelia was preceded in death by her parents, Fred Henry Mitchell McMinn and Julia Jane...

Johnny R. Albright

Johnny R. AlbrightJohnny Albright, 66, brother, uncle, and friend, went to his heavenly home on August 8, 2024. He was born on August 15, 1957, in Burlington to the late John Albright, Jr and Louise Stout Albright. A graduate of Southern Alamance High School in 1975,...