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...

John T. Foster

John T. FosterSherrills Ford, North Carolina - John Thomas "Buddy" Foster, 94, of Sherrils Ford, NC formerly of Salisbury, NC passed away peacefully November 6, 2024 at his residence. Born in Rowan County, NC he was the son of the late Lester Anderson Foster and Annie...

Winona C. Eye

Winona C. EyeWinona Cotter Eye, 95, passed away peacefully at her home on May 21, 2025, after an 8-year journey with dementia. A proud descendent of the Rogers family of Cullowhee, Winnie was a 1950 graduate of Western Carolina Teachers College (now WCU), a dedicated...

Sue R. Colmant

Sue R. ColmantSue Ray Smith Colmant passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston Salem on May 9, 2025. She was 80 years old. Sue was born on August 25, 1944 in Winston Salem to Oscar and Betty Smith. She graduated from East...