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,...
Bryan A. Hiatt

Bryan A. Hiatt

Bryan A. HiattMr. Bryan Agee Hiatt, age 67 of Tobaccoville, NC, passed away at his home on Wednesday January 29, 2025. He was born February 8, 1957, in Surry County to Vestal Agee Hiatt and Wilma Lee Jarrell Hiatt. He was a graduate of North Forsyth High School in...

Peggy A. Wakefield

Peggy A. Wakefield

Peggy A. WakefieldPeggy Ann Fisher Wakefield, widow of Bill Wakefield, of Spartanburg, SC passed away on Monday, January 27, 2025 at the age of 82. She was born in Bryson City, NC on August 30, 1942, a daughter of the late Christine and Edgar Fisher. After graduating...

Elizabeth “Alicia” Le

Elizabeth “Alicia” Le

Elizabeth "Alicia" LeWith profound sadness, the family announces the passing of Elizabeth Alicia Freeman Le at the age of 50. But it is with great joy that we share the story of an unforgettable source of light and levity whose trademark laugh echoed throughout every...