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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Elaine H. Brown

Elaine H. Brown

Elaine H. BrownElaine Holt Brown, 73, of Cullowhee, passed peacefully into the loving arms of her Lord and savior, Jesus Christ on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy of faith and love for the Lord that has impacted countless lives. Born on January 11,...

Harold “Hal” C. Reid

Harold “Hal” C. Reid

Harold "Hal" C. ReidIt is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Harold "Hal" Claude Reid, a loving father, devoted husband, and cherished friend, who passed away on March 9, 2025, at the age of 78 years old. Hal was the son of the late Lieutenant Colonel...

James J. Gillespie

James J. Gillespie

James J. GillespieJames Jennings Gillespie, 87, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the Stonecreek Health and Rehabilitation Center. Mr. Gillespie was a native of Buncombe County and had resided in Buncombe County since 1963. He retired in 1993...