Obituaries

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

Eugene Lee Manning, Jr.

Eugene Lee Manning, Jr., formerly of Kernersville, passed away on September 7, 2026 in High Point surrounded by his family. He was born August 13, 1959 in Charlotte to Gene and Jo Ann Manning. He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene Lee Manning and a sister,...

William Jeremiah (Jerry) “Coach” Hicks

William Jeremiah (Jerry) "Coach" Hicks, 84, of Marion, passed away at his residence on the morning of Sunday, September 13, 2026. Jerry was born in Cabarrus County, NC on March 2, 1942 to the late Thurman Hicks and Lenora Deese Hicks. He is also preceded in death by...

Gail R. Williams

Gail R. Williams passed away at Haywood Regional Medical Center on Sept. 4, 2026. Her brothers were present as well as Dez, her grandson. Gail was the daughter of Alan and Rowena Roberson of Louisiana. Gail went to school in Colorado Springs before moving to Tucson,...

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 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 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...