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...

Phillip “Phil” M. Bailey

Phillip "Phil" M. BaileyMr. Phillip Michael Bailey, of Union, widower of Benemma Bentley Bailey, passed away peacefully at his home on May 11, 2025. Phil was born August 13, 1948 a son of the late Wendell and Lelia Young Bailey.  He was a graduate of A.C. Reynolds...

Robert “Bob” L. Humphrey

Robert "Bob" L. HumphreyRobert Louis “Bob” Humphrey, age 95, of Franklin, Tennessee, passed away on April 16, 2025. Born in Decatur, Alabama, Bob lived a life marked by faith, service, and devotion to his family. A longtime resident of both Nashville and Franklin, he...

Judith “Judy” H. Russell

Judith "Judy" H. Russell Judith Harkins Russell, affectionately known as Judy, was born on July 23, 1957, in Haywood County, North Carolina, and unexpectedly was reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, David Russell (2023), on May 14, 2025. She was also...