Obituaries

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

Ryan E. McCurry

Ryan E. McCurryEric 'Ryan' McCurry, age 44 of Charlotte NC, died August 11, 2025. He was born in Morganton NC on March 30, 1981 to Shirley Jean Buchanan (Crowe) and Eric Donald McCurry. Ryan attended Freedom High and earned a BA in Criminal Justice from Western...

Gerald “Bob” Denny

Gerald "Bob" DennyMr. Denny passed away at home with family on Tuesday, August 5th , 2025 at age 93 following an extended period of declining health. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley Hill Denny; his son Blake; his son Scott and spouse Monica; his...

Louise W. Sowell

Louise W. SowellLouise Worley Sowell, 94, of Inman, died on July 31, 2025 at her home. A native of Canton NC, she was the  daughter of the late Robert Haskew and Mary Alma Tillery Worley and the wife of the late Joseph Huey Sowell. She was a homemaker and former...
Rebecca “Becky” S. O’Kelley

Rebecca “Becky” S. O’Kelley

Rebecca "Becky" S. O'KelleyRebecca “Becky” Sharpe O’Kelley, 65, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. Becky was born in Enoree, SC to the late John Leslie and Ruth Goodwin Sharpe. She graduated from Enka High School and Western...

Elaine H. Brown

Elaine H. Brown

Elaine H. BrownElaine Holt Brown, 73, of Cullowhee, passed peacefully into the loving arms of her Lord and savior, Jesus Christ on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy of faith and love for the Lord that has impacted countless lives. Born on January 11,...

Harold “Hal” C. Reid

Harold “Hal” C. Reid

Harold "Hal" C. ReidIt is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Harold "Hal" Claude Reid, a loving father, devoted husband, and cherished friend, who passed away on March 9, 2025, at the age of 78 years old. Hal was the son of the late Lieutenant Colonel...