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

by | May 11, 2026 | 1967, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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...
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Herman G. Shamel

by | May 1, 2026 | 1955, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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...
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William “Ben” Odom

by | May 1, 2026 | 1983, Obituaries | 0 Comments

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,...
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Karen Jean Furey

Karen Jean Furey

Karen Jean FureyKaren Jean Furey, 63, was welcomed into Heaven on March 21, 2026 where she was greeted by her parents Bob and Lorraine Furey as well as her brothers Robert and Ken Furey. She is survived by her younger sisters: Laura Kincaid and Ellen Whittington...

Janet M. Desist

Janet M. Desist

Janet M. DesistJanet was born July 31, 1946, in Hoke County to the late William Lacy McNeill and Mary Helen McFadyen McNeill. She was a devoted member of Raeford Presbyterian Church, where she taught Sunday School. Later, she became a member of Vaughn Memorial...

Robert “Steve” Davis

Robert “Steve” Davis

Robert "Steve" DavisRobert "Steve" Davis, a native of Haywood County, passed away March 21 leaving a legacy of family, integrity, and service to Western North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Madison Davis, his mother, Maudie Buchanan Davis, and...