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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Jane O. Hipps

Jane O. Hipps

Jane O. Hipps Mary Jane O’Neal, born June 5, 1936, was the beloved only child of Oliver Milan O’Neal and Dora Lee Clarke O’Neal. Everyone called her Jane. Her childhood years were mostly spent in eastern North Carolina where her father owned multiple businesses. Her...

Conda J. Vaughn

Conda J. Vaughn

Conda Juanita Vaughn, 80, was born in Macon County to the late Clyde & Mildred (Mashburn) Vaughn. She peacefully entered the presence of Jesus on Saturday, November 15, 2025. She graduated from Franklin High School and attended Western Carolina University. She was...

Joe L. Tandy

Joe L. Tandy

Joe L. TandyJoe Linden Tandy Jr. passed away Wednesday December 3, 2025, surrounded by his wife and immediate family. Joe is known for his many passions in life including his family, friends, faith, community, and classic cars, but his greatest passion was his wife...