Obituaries

Celebrate and remember those from our precious alma mater who have passed. We send our deepest condolences to the families and friends.

Herman G. Shamel

Herman G. ShamelHerman Gray Shamel departed his earthly life at home on April 10th. He was born on August 18th, 1931 to parents Irl J. Shamel and Freda Lineback Shamel. He grew up in the Mt. Tabor Community of Forsyth County. He was the third of four children; three...

William “Ben” Odom

William "Ben" OdomWilliam Bennett (Ben) Odom born November 9, 1956 passed peacefully at home and was promoted to heaven April 9, 2026. A kind and caring soul.  Born 69 years ago in Greensboro NC, son of the late Henry and Mary Odom, brother to three sisters; Janice,...

Daryl W. Wynn

Daryl W. WynnDaryl William Wynn, 80, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026. Born November 18, 1945 in Greenville, SC, he was the son of the late Carl and Dorothy Weiler Wynn. Daryl graduated from Aberdeen High School and went on to attend Western Carolina University...
Eleanor W. Lofquist

Eleanor W. Lofquist

Eleanor W. LofquistCora Eleanor White Lofquist (“Ellima”) of Cullowhee, North Carolina, passed peacefully in her home, joining the love of her life, Henry (“Hennipa”) on January 9, 2026. Eleanor was born April 3, 1930, to Ray McLee and Carrie Pierce White in Lenoir,...

Jennings “Harold” Heatherly

Jennings “Harold” Heatherly

Jennings "Harold" HeatherlyJennings Harold Heatherly, age 84, who was born on April 6, 1941, passed away peacefully during the evening hours of Thursday, December 18, 2025. He was surrounded by family and friends in his home on Cold Creek in the Cruso Community of...

Jack S. Finger

Jack S. Finger

Jack S FingerJack Shuford Finger, 90, a beloved member of the Haywood County community, departed this life on January 2, 2026. Born on January 12, 1935, to the late John and Sarah Mehaffey Finger in Haywood County. Jack lived a life rich with experiences and...