Obituaries

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

Dr. Michael Willis

by | October 29, 2026 | 1979, 1983, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Dr. Michael Bryson Willis, 69, of Franklin, NC, passed away Monday, October 26, 2026. A native of Macon County, Michael was born to the late James Garland Willis and Sue Ann Bryson Willis. He dedicated his life to music education, inspiring countless students...
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Sherry F. Ginn

by | October 29, 2026 | 1974, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Sherry Fox Ginn passed away on October 20, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on July 4, 1944, she lived a life of service, care, and dedication to others. Sherry was a graduate of Swain County High School and later earned a master’s degree in education from Western...
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Ellen Nuzum Wetmore

by | October 26, 2026 | 1973, Obituaries | 0 Comments

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ellen Nuzum Wetmore, 75, of Pauline, SC. After a 23 year battle with cancer, Ellen passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026 at the SRI Hospice Home, surrounded by family. Born May 15, 1951, in Newton, NC, she...
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Thomas “Tom” E. Plott

Thomas "Tom" E. PlottThomas E. Plott passed from this earth into the presence of his Lord and Savior on June 8, 2025. He was predeceased by his parents, Cecil F. Plott and Mildred S. Plott of Bryson City, NC; his sisters, Ann Crisp of Waynesville, NC, and Cecile...

Constance “Connie” E. Stiles

Constance “Connie” E. StilesConstance “Connie” Stiles, 69, of Franklin, NC, passed away peacefully in her home, Tuesday, June 10, 2025. Connie was born in Sylva, NC, to the late Vernon Davis and Mary Constance Stiles. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in...

Sheila W. Shields

Sheila W. Shields Sheila Shields passed away unexpectedly on June 10. Sheila was at her home in Cullowhee when she simply lost consciousness and never woke up. Sheila graduated from Western Carolina University in 1980 with a BS in Psychology and worked as a Vocational...