Obituaries

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

Fred C. Ryder

Fred C. RyderAlfred Cornelius (Fred) Ryder III, 82, a third generation Winter Haven resident, died peacefully at home on April 19, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose steady...

Herman G. Shamel

Herman G. ShamelHerman Gray Shamel departed his earthly life at home on April 10th. He was born on August 18th, 1931 to parents Irl J. Shamel and Freda Lineback Shamel. He grew up in the Mt. Tabor Community of Forsyth County. He was the third of four children; three...

William “Ben” Odom

William "Ben" OdomWilliam Bennett (Ben) Odom born November 9, 1956 passed peacefully at home and was promoted to heaven April 9, 2026. A kind and caring soul.  Born 69 years ago in Greensboro NC, son of the late Henry and Mary Odom, brother to three sisters; Janice,...
Mikilene Q. Hinsch

Mikilene Q. Hinsch

Mikilene Q. HinschMikilene Quesenberry Hinsch of Lexington, NC passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at the age of 51. She was born on April 6, 1974, in Rocky Mount, NC to the late Arnold “Butch” Quesenberry and the late Navahlia Quesenberry, formerly of...

Linda F. Hargett

Linda F. Hargett

Linda F. HargettLinda Furr Hargett, 85, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, in Summerville, South Carolina. Born on July 28, 1940, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Linda lived a life dedicated to family, faith, and education. A proud graduate of East Mecklenburg...

Bob O. Brannon

Bob O. Brannon

Bob O. BrannonRobert O. “Bob” Brannon of Waynesville, North Carolina passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on Monday, March 30th at the age of 99 years and 10 months. With a light chuckle, he liked to tell people that he was already “100” since he was so...