Obituaries

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

Paul N. Wright

Paul N. WrightPaul Newton Wright was Promoted to Glory on February 25, 2026, and is now in the presence of the Lord. He was born on October 17, 1936, to the late Jasper Newton and Florence Holt Wright, in what would be his lifetime residence. He was preceded in death...

Suzanne M. Wood

Suzanne M. WoodSuzanne Marie Wasson Wood passed away Saturday, February 21, 2026, peacefully in her sleep after a long illness. She was 57 years old. She was born on September 20, 1968, in Chicago, IL during a time when her father, John R. Wasson, was earning a PhD in...

Randy P. Foster

Randy P. FosterRandy Paul Foster, 68, of Candler, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026. Born on June 22, 1957, in Asheville, North Carolina, Randy lived a life full of love, laughter, and music. Randy graduated from Western Carolina University...
Gary French

Gary French

Gary FrenchWith heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our husband, father, brother, and friend, Gary French, who began his next journey on February 9, 2026. Gary was the son of the late former Vice-Chief Meroney French and his beloved mother, Viola French. He lived...

Jim A. Collins

Jim A. Collins

Jim A. Collins James “Jim” Arnold Collins Jr., 80, of High Point, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at his daughter’s residence, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born and raised with a strong sense of pride, humor, and...

Mary Sue Casey

Mary Sue Casey

Mary Sue Casey April 18, 1952 — February 21, 2026 Sylva, NC Mary Sue Casey was born on April 18, 1952 to the late Lyndon Casey and Minnie Worley Casey. She passed away on Feb. 21, 2026. Known for her independence, generosity, optimism, enthusiasm, and courage, Mary...