Obituaries

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

Kate D. Welch

by | June 12, 2026 | 1957, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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...
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Sally M. Monteith

by | June 12, 2026 | 1941, 1955, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Sally M. MonteithSally Campbell, age 108, a Jackson County high school English and Journalism teacher for 34 years died at her home on Friday, June 5th. A native and lifelong resident of Sylva, she was the daughter of the late Sam and Ida Monteith and the wife of...
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Philip D. Buchahan

by | June 12, 2026 | 1966, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Philip D. BuchahanPhilip Dean Buchanan was born on Dec. 26, 1943 in the lovely town of Sylva in the North Carolina mountains to Thomas Dewey Buchanan and Inez Vesta Carver Buchanan. He attended Western Carolina University for his undergraduate work. Here, his...
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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...

Virgil H. Corriher

Virgil H. Corriher

Virgil H. CorriherVirgil Henderson Corriher, Jr., age 80 of Salisbury, passed away December 31, 2025. Virgil attended Davidson County High School and graduated from Western Carolina College in 1967. He then attended the University of Tennessee where he graduated in...

Cathy B. Petrucelli

Cathy B. Petrucelli

Cathy B. PetrucelliCatherine B. Petrucelli, 64, of Sun City, Arizona passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, after a courageous 21-year journey with brain cancer. We will fondly remember her kindness, cheerful personality, radiant smile and laughter. Catherine...