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,...
Henry “Phil” Shook II

Henry “Phil” Shook II

Henry "Phil" Shook IIHenry Philander Shook II December 26, 1946 - December 20, 2024 Greensboro-Henry Philander Shook Il (Phil) of Greensboro, age 77, quietly slipped away from his loving wife, Marguerite Verble Jordan Shook (Maggie), who was by his side, on December...

Muriel C. Thompson

Muriel C. Thompson

Muriel C. ThompsonIt is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, Mother and Nana, Muriel Clement Thompson at the age of 71. She was getting ready to go play Pickleball with a group of dear friends on December 19th when she suffered a...

Richard “Tim” Babb

Richard “Tim” Babb

Richard "Tim" BabbRichard “Tim” Babb, 80, loving husband of 59 1/2 years to Mary Finley Babb, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, just a few days from his 81st birthday. Born in Danville, VA, he was a son of the late Reese and Azalea...