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

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...

Sherry F. Ginn

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...

Ellen Nuzum Wetmore

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...

Gayle C. Galloway

Gayle C. GallowayGayle Coppedge Galloway, 89, passed away peacefully at home in Greenville, SC, on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 1, 1935, in Asheville, NC, Gayle was the child of the late Raymond Coppedge and Erma Stewart...

Woodrow “Woody” A. Dyar

Woodrow "Woody" A. DyarWoodrow "Woody" Arthur Dyar, passed away on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on August 11, 1945, in Central, SC, he was a son of the late Arthur and Nina Gassaway Dyar. Woody attended Western Carolina University on a football...

Stephen D. Prybylo

Stephen D. PrybyloStephen Steve Prybylo, 62, of Morganton, NC passed away Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at his home. He was born on February 17, 1963 and was the son of the late Lawrence Douglas Prybylo and Nancy Barns Prybylo. Steve graduated from Freedom High School and...