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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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...

Ricky D. Thomas

Ricky D. Thomas

Ricky D. Thomas Ricky Dwayne Thomas of Whiteville N.C. passed on November 16, 2025. He was born on June 1, 1977 in Charlotte, N.C. to Randy and Peggy Slack Thomas of Chadbourn, N.C. He graduated from Western Carolina University and loved music, travel, and camping. He...

Emmylou “Junie” Norfleet

Emmylou “Junie” Norfleet

Emmylou "Junie" NorfleetEmmylou “Junie” Monroe Norfleet passed away November 30, 2025. She was born June 28, 1947, in Bennettsville, SC, the eldest child of Martha and George Norfleet. Gifted with uncommon patience, fortitude, and generosity, Junie spent her life...