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,...
Carroll C. Wright Jr.

Carroll C. Wright Jr.

Carroll C. Wright Jr.Carroll C. Wright, Jr. passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025, in Haywood County, North Carolina. He was born December 24, 1936, in Swain County, North Carolina, leaving behind a legacy filled with remarkable accomplishments and cherished...

Charles “Chuck” B. Freeman

Charles “Chuck” B. Freeman

Charles "Chuck" B. FreemanCharles Boyce Freeman (Chuck), 89, of Chesterfield, Virginia, went home to be with the Lord on January 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 10, 1935, in Rutherfordton, North Carolina, Chuck lived a life filled with...

Linda S. Conrad

Linda S. Conrad

Linda S. Conradinda Stilwell Conrad, 68, of Hayesville, passed away Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 in a Gainesville, Ga. hospital. She was a native and lifetime resident of Clay County and raised on the family farm in Tusquittee. Linda earned a bachelor's degree in business...