Obituaries

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

Brandon Thomas Stephens

Thomas "Brandon" Stephens was born on February 5, 1972, to Thomas "Tommy" Earl Stephens and Evangeline "Vangie" Wolfe Stephens. A man of remarkable intellect, unmistakable laughter, boundless curiosity, and an unwavering love for his people, Brandon lived a life...

Carla Warner Robbins

Ms. Carla Warner Robbins, 81, of Old Thomasville Rd., went to be with her Savior on Sunday, October 11, 2026. She was born on July 28, 1945, in Davidson County, to the late Brady Holton Warner, Sr. and the late Clara Berrier Warner. A retired educator, Ms. Robbins,...

Carissa Ann Guthrie

Carissa Ann James Guthrie, age 77, of Morganton, NC, died on October 3, 2026 from injuries sustained after a car accident earlier in the week. She was a spirited lady with a wit that cut like a hot knife through butter, and she loved her golden retriever, Bentley...

Lewis Kent (Coach) Briggs

Lewis Kent (Coach) BriggsWith strong roots and deep love for Western North Carolina communities coach leaves behind a legacy in resilience, strength, kindness and loyalty. Even up to his final days, Kent lived by Rocky’s quote… “it ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s...

Catherine M. Lowder

Catherine M. LowderCHARLOTTE - Catherine M. Lowder, 79, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. She was born in Asheville, NC on October 14, 1946, and was the daughter of James F. Lowder and Ruth H. Lowder. Cathy graduated from Hickory High School and...

Kate D. Welch

Kate D. WelchKate Deitz Welch, 91, of Bryson City peacefully passed from this earthly life on June 6, 2026, at home with her family present. Kate was born March 15, 1935, to the late Hoyle and Inez Deitz of Dillsboro. She graduated from Western Carolina University in...