Obituaries

Celebrate and remember those from our precious alma mater who have passed. We send our deepest condolences to the families and friends.

Kate D. Welch

by | June 12, 2026 | 1957, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Kate D. WelchKate Deitz Welch, 91, of Bryson City peacefully passed from this earthly life on June 6, 2026, at home with her family present. Kate was born March 15, 1935, to the late Hoyle and Inez Deitz of Dillsboro. She graduated from Western Carolina University in...
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Sally M. Monteith

by | June 12, 2026 | 1941, 1955, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Sally M. MonteithSally Campbell, age 108, a Jackson County high school English and Journalism teacher for 34 years died at her home on Friday, June 5th. A native and lifelong resident of Sylva, she was the daughter of the late Sam and Ida Monteith and the wife of...
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Philip D. Buchahan

by | June 12, 2026 | 1966, Obituaries | 0 Comments

Philip D. BuchahanPhilip Dean Buchanan was born on Dec. 26, 1943 in the lovely town of Sylva in the North Carolina mountains to Thomas Dewey Buchanan and Inez Vesta Carver Buchanan. He attended Western Carolina University for his undergraduate work. Here, his...
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James “Jim” B. Chandler

James “Jim” B. Chandler

James "Jim" B. ChandlerJames Chandler, 79, of Moneta, Virginia, beloved husband of Gloria Chandler, passed away on January 15, 2025. Born in Eden, North Carolina on Valentine's Day, 1945, Jim was the son of the late James & Irene Chandler. He graduated from...

George “Willard” Cogdill

George “Willard” Cogdill

George "Willard" CogdillIn loving Memory George Willard Cogdill December 27,1933 - January 15, 2025 Waynesville- George Willard Cogdill, 91, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. A beloved husband, father, and friend, Willard will be...

Jo-An B. Pittard

Jo-An B. Pittard

Jo-An B. PittardJo-An Pittard, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 14, 2025, in the comfort of her home. She was 78 years old. Jo-An was known for her boundless kindness, witty sense of humor, and love...