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

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...

Sally M. Monteith

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...

Philip D. Buchahan

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...
David S. Hewes

David S. Hewes

David S. HewesDavid Stephen Hewes, born on February 9th, 1972 to William Francis Hewes II and Sally Tardin Hewes, in Fulton County, GA. He was a man whose life journey was as rich and flavorful as the dishes he created. He departed this world on January 29th, 2026, in...

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...