The following classmates are deceased. Please help us locate more information about their lives. Below the list are the obituaries we have located (best viewed on a computer screen).
Send additions or corrections to: spgurganus@gmail.com.
We invite you to donate to our class gift in the memory of one or more classmates. Please contact the alumni office to donate to the Class of 1975 Gift in "Memory Of.".
Adams, Robenia G 18-Aug-1933 17-Feb-2011
Allen, Rita Kay Mitchell 15-May-2015
Biggs, Gary Y. 29-Jan-1947 4-May-2024
Bowers, Kathy Lynn Amos 5-June-1951 3-Aug-2014
Buckner, Mary Metta Fisher 27-Mar-1944 19-Apr-1994
Cater, Rocky Darrel 10-Nov-1954 15-Jan-2016
Chrisawn, Alden Benjamin "Toby" 19-Oct-2011
Clay, Lewis Henry Jr 26-Aug-1952 27-Jan-2024
*Cody, Arvil Stewart 18-Aug-1953 8-Apr-1980
Cole, Richard Benjamin 20-Nov-2007
*Coleman, David Keith
*Cox, Cassandra Leigh
Crowe, Elsie Marcella 28-Feb-1953 3-Mar-2012
Currie, Thomas Clyde Jr 20-Mar-1951 16-Mar-2023
Eaves, Floree Y 9-Jan-1932 31-Aug-2012
Enloe, Mary Melanie Hooper 25-Oct-1952 11-Sep-2023
*Evans, Otis Mitchell
Fetzko, Curtis (Curt) 7-Nov-2020
*Gore, Amanda Ruth
Gore, Shirley 2-Feb-2003
Haden, Tim Earl 23-Feb-2008
Hale, Larry Register 11-Feb-1947 19-Mar-2023
Hall, Ralph Michael 2-Apr-1953 11-Jun-2020
Haynie, Roger Dale 28-Jan-2011
*Hensley, Patricia
Hensley, Ruth Lorena 2-May-1999
Holdway, Susan Austell 26-Sept-1953 26-Oct-2022
Howell, Terry Lee 3-Jan-1953 9-Oct-2002
Hoyt, Mark Houston 24-Sep-1981
Ipock, Paul Emerson 24-Mar-1953 21-Oct-1991
*Johnson, Cynthia Dawn
Kellett, Martha Ann 14-May-2007
*Knox, Mary Anne
*Lewis, Michael Gray
*Lincoln, Patrick K
Lucado, Ralph Thomas 8-Oct-1952 11-Aug-1998
McGee, Mildred Parkman 24-May-2015
Maples, Sandra Jean Rosemond 12-Oct-1952 21-Jan-2000
Marsh, Linda Davis 29-Sept-1953 18-Aug-2012
Miller, Steven Carter 10-Aug-1953 12-Nov-2023
Mintz, Graham Wyche 18-Sep-1952 12-Nov-2024
*Moseley, Frank
*Nash, John R
*Olup, Cathy Lou Blackwelder 2-Jul-2015
Orr, Patricia "Pat" Carol Pepper 4-Feb-1954 30-May-2024
Palmer, Carolyn Hudgins 14-Apr-1941 20-Apr-2017
Pendergraft, Claude Dean 1945 1988
Prater, Steve 30-Nov-1951 20-June-2020
Pyrtle, Keith Aldean 29-Aug-1947 26-Aug-2001
Radford, Nancy Elizabeth Greer 14-Jul-1953 31-Dec-2023
*Ramsey, James Allen 20-Sep-1954 3-Aug-2009
Reece, Thomas "Tom" Case 8-Jul-1949 27-Sept-2023
*Reynolds, Nancy Jane (Maples?)
Rivers, Jimmy Glenn 19-Dec-2010
Rogers, William C "WC" 7-Aug-1949 9-Jan-2024
Rowe, Eileen 6-Dec-1924 6-May-2008
Slye, Donnie A. 21-July-1952 9-May-2017
Sokoloskis, Donna K. Zotti 9-Jan-1954 20-Sept-2024
Snyder, Brenda Gail Hale 23-Jun-1954 24-Sep-2013
Stansell, William Albert 1-Apr-2014
Suttle, DeFoix Earl 21-Sep-1952 27-Sep-2001
Swinehart, Gregory Paul 8-May-1952 31-Dec-2021
Taylor, Johnny Wayne 28-Dec-2019
Thackston, Sherry Aiken 5-Oct-2011
*Watley, James A
Way, Kerry Emerson 8-Nov-1952 5-July-2025
*Wilson, Hazel
*Wilson, Jimmy L
*have not located obituary
We have not been able to confirm the following names as being our classmates.
Their obituaries appear at the end of this page. Please send information to spgurganus@gmail.com. Thank you!
Erwin, Sharon Landes 19 Feb 2025
Fletcher, Melinda Wallace 23 Aug 2015
Hurd, David M 16 May 2024
McIntosh, James Randy 30 Aug 2022
Roberson III, Herbert Ray 2 June 2025
Robenia Gunter Adams
MARSHALL
- Robenia Adams, 77, of Marshall, died on Thursday, February 17, 2011. Robenia was born August 18, 1933 in Madison County where she lived and retired from being a school teacher. She was a member of The Church of the Little Flower. She was preceded in death by her parents, William Norton and Neta Norton Rice; husband, Wayne Adams; son, Joseph Garland Adams; and grandson, Brently Adams. Surviving are her daughter, Janet Adams Crowe, of Marshall; son, David Wayne Adams and wife, Rachel, of Burnsville; granddaughter, Kelsey Adams, of Burnsville: brother, Felix "Pete" Rice, of Wilmington, Del.; and many special relatives.
Funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday in the chapel of Madison Funeral Home with Brother Paul Fredette officiating. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday prior to the service at the funeral home. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday in the Revere Church of God Cemetery.
Rita Kay Mitchell Allen
GASTONIA - Rita Kay Mitchell Allen, 61, passed away very peacefully and was taken into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Friday, May 15, 2015, with her loving family by her side. She was a longtime employee at Cigna Healthcare. A life-long musician. Rita was very active in her church at Bradley Memorial United Methodist, where she was past President of the United Methodist Women and Chairperson of various committees. She did things not for her recognition, but for The Glory of God.
Mrs. Allen was preceded in death by her parents, John and Bertha Mitchell, including various aunts and uncles. Rita was married to and survived by her loving and caring husband of 39 years, Arthur "Chuck" Allen Jr.; two sons: Mitchell Ross Allen and wife Katie, of Gastonia, and Todd Christopher Allen, of Lumberton; two beautiful grandchildren: Aubree Claire Allen and Lathan Ross Allen; sister and brother-in-law: Susan and Michael Russell, of York, S.C.; her first cousin, Jane Whiteside, who was the sister she never had; nephew: Gray Friday; numerous aunts and uncles and an abundant number of cousins and friends.
Services for Mrs. Allen will be conducted at 3 p.m. Monday, May 18, 2015, in the Sanctuary of Bradley Memorial United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Debra Short to officiate the Celebration of Life Ceremony. Interment for Rita will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Belmont. Pallbearers will be Dennis Connell, David Rhyne, Steve Rogers, Phillip Triplett, David McCarver and Allen McCarver. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, May 17, 2015, in the Chapel of Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in memory of Rita Allen to: Testa Family Hospice House, 321 Kings Mountain Blvd., Kings Mountain, NC 28086. Online condolences may be sent to the Allen family at www.CarothersFuneralHomeGastonia.com.
Published in Gaston Gazette on May 17, 2015
January 29, 1947 ~ May 4, 2024 (age 77)
Gary Yates Biggs, age 77 of Elk Park, the Beech Mountain Community, passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024. He was a native of Avery County and the son of the late Yates and Edna Earley Biggs.
He attended Beech Mountain Baptist Church. Gary was a US Navy veteran, serving as a radio operator during Viet Nam.
He had a passion for all sports, and loved talking about the latest games with everyone.
He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Linda Parlier Biggs; two sons, Galen and Justin Biggs both of Elk Park; two brothers, Bill Biggs and late wife Faye of Virginia, and Ricky Biggs and wife Doris of Pfafftown.
Services will be conducted Monday, May 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the Austin & Barnes Funeral Home Chapel. Military honors provided by Watauga American Legion Post #130 will commence at 6:00 p.m.
Online condolences may be shared with the Biggs family at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Biggs family.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Yates Biggs, please visit our floral store.
Kathy Lynn Amos Bowers
Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend passed away Sunday August 3rd. She was born in Danville Virginia June 5, 1951 to Eleanor and Nelson Amos.
She was a devoted wife to Gary Lynn Bowers for over 43 years and a loving mother to her sons Brian and Alan and to her seven grandchildren. She is also survived by her mother Eleanor Amos, sisters (Karen Paul and Cheryl Denton) and brothers (Dr. Ed Amos and Rob Amos)
Kathy always loved teaching. She was an inspiration to her Bible Study class as well as her S. Bryan Jennings elementary school family. She touched many lives.
The family will receive friends at Hardage Giddens Rivermead Funeral Home at 127 Blanding Blvd. from 6pm to 8pm Friday Aug. 8th.
Services will be held at 3 pm Saturday Aug 9th at First Baptist Church of Orange Park. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, it is Kathy’s request that donations be made to First Baptist Church of Orange Park.
Mary Metta Fisher Buckner
Mary Metta Fisher, daughter of Murphy Blanton Fisher and Mabel Sue Fisher.
Born March 27, 1944. Died April 19, 1994, Weaverville.
Married to Coleman Gerald Buckner.
Nursing Instructor
Rocky Darrell Cater
NOVEMBER 10, 1954 – JANUARY 15, 2016
Rocky Darrell Cater, 61, husband of Glenda Hardin Cater, passed from this life on Friday, January 15, 2016 at Greenville Memorial Hospital. Rocky was born in Pickens County, a son of the late A. C. and Hattie Medlin Cater.
He was retired as a brick mason and was of the Baptist faith. Rocky loved all things sports, including golf, Gamecock football, horseshoes and anything else competitive. He was a star football player at Pickens High School where he won “Player of the Year” in 1973. Following high school he went to Mars Hill College on a football scholarship where he played for two years.
Survivors include his wife of 21 years, Glenda Cater of the home, daughter, Kellie “Benes” Reeves (Travis Ballard) of Pickens and grandchildren, Paylin and Veda Ballard. Also surviving are twin sisters, Brenda Eisenman of Simpsonville and Linda Mangum (Bob) of Powdersville and brothers, Jimmy Cater (Kathy) of Marietta, and Roger Cater (Margaret) of Pickens. In addition to his parents, Rocky was preceded in death by a niece, Mandy Mangum and a nephew, Tyler Mangum.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 PM Monday at Dillard Funeral Home in Pickens.
The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at 1 PM in the funeral home chapel.
Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens. The family will be at the home of his sister-in-law, Billie Lesley in Easley. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Pickens High School Athletic Department, 150 Blue Flame Drive, Pickens, SC 29671. A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com Dillard Funeral Home, Pickens, SC
Alden Benjamin “Toby” Chrisawn
Alden Benjamin "Toby" Chrisawn, age 65, of Burnsville, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, October 19, 2011at St. Josephs Hospital. A native of Yancey County, he was a son of the late Benjamin Harrison Chrisawn and Connie Mae Autrey Chrisawn. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Sherrill and Wayne Chrisawn. He was a Navy Veteran, having served during Vietnam. After serving in the military, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Mars Hill College. He then worked for Asheville Buncombe Community College in business finance until 1989. He worked as Dean of Finance for Alamance Community College until 1992 before moving back to Yancey County to become the finance officer for Toe River Health District. After his retirement in 1998, he became a licensed real estate broker until his declining health. Toby loved gardening, landscaping, and woodworking.
Surviving are his wife of 43 years, Norma Jean Sparks Chrisawn and two sons: Nathan Alden
Chrisawn of Winston Salem and Jeremy Wayne Chrisawn of Charlotte; sisters-in-law: Brenda Henson and husband, Stanley and Pat Chrisawn Matthews and husband, Jerry; brothers-in-law; Charles Sparks and wife, Lois and Eddie Sparks and wife, Nancy; niece, Tracie Ann Chrisawn Voletto and husband, Jeff. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 21, 2011 at First Baptist Church of Burnsville. Rev. Beth Joyner and Rev. Tommy James will officiate. Military Honors will follow in the Patton Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Memorial donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Burnsville, P.O. Box 425,
Burnsville, NC 28714.
ASHEVILLE – Lewis Henry Clay, Jr., age 71, of Asheville died Saturday, January 27, 2024.
Lewis was born on August 26, 1952, in Buncombe County. He graduated from Mars Hill University with a degree in Business Administration and worked for many years in the Ford Automotive Business.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Louise Hasty Clay, who died in 1956, and his father and stepmother, Lewis Henry Clay, Sr. and Cordie Cox Clay.
Surviving are his wife of 42 years, Patricia Whitson Clay and sister, Susan C. Clay.
At Lewis’ request services will be private.
West Family Funeral Services is honored to be serving Lewis’ family and condolences may be offered under his obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.
Arvil Stewart Cody
August 18, 1953 – April 8, 1980
Mars Hill, NC
Richard Benjamin Cole
Richard Benjamin Cole went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2007, after a gallant fight with cancer. The love of his life, his darling wife of 55 years, Diane June Wilson Cole, resides
at Aston Park Health Care Center in Asheville. He has two devoted daughters: Sharon Ramsey, who lives in Marshall with her husband, Gary, and Julie Martin, who lives in Liberty with her husband, David. His last wish was granted: with Sharon and Julie by his side at home, as he went to meet Jesus.
The joys of his life were his grandchildren, Holly Ramsey Griffin, Heather Ramsey Gast, Lindsay Hensley Latham and Megan Ramsey Bowman. He was also blessed with six great-grandsons and three great-granddaughters. He will be truly missed by his very best friend, Buddy. He was the son of the late Harold Benjamin and Lucy Todd Cole. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Floyd, Eugene and Donald Cole. Richard is survived by four sisters and one brother, Blanch Woodward, Katie Jaquot, Aline Ingram, Joyce Miller and Bruce Cole. Also surviving are three sisters-in-law, Marie, Ann and Yvonne Cole.
Richard was a graduate of Oakley High School. He was sent to England by the U.S. Air Force in 1951, and after 20 years of dedicated service to his country, he retired from the military in 1970. Richard then pursued his dream of higher education, graduating from A-B Technical College with an associate degree in accounting; graduated magna cum laude from Mars Hill College with a B.S. in business administration, and finally achieved his master's degree in business administration from Western Carolina University. He retired again in 1993, after teaching evening classes at AB-Tech and working as the receiving supervisor for Thomas & Howard Company.
Richard & Diana attended Emmanuel Cathedral Church in Oakley and were passionate in their faith and dedicated to serving God. They spent the last 15 years ministering to nursing home residents, with Diana's beautiful voice accompanied by Richard's guitar. He leaves with us the greatest gift of true Thanksgiving, for he was compassionate and generous to all in need and genuinely thankful for each and every moment of his life.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Robbie Capps Memorial Chapel of Blue Ridge Funeral Service. The Revs. Raymond Woodby and Michael Woodby will officiate. Burial will follow in Ramsey Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Blue Ridge Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his memory to the ministry of Emmanuel Cathedral Church, P.O. Box 5113, Asheville, NC 28813.
Elsie M. Crowe
February 28, 1953 - March 3, 2012
Elsie M. Crowe, 59, died Saturday, March 3, 2012, at home. She was born in Vero Beach and lived in Sebastian for the past 25 years. She was a 1975 graduate of Mars Hill College, Mars Hill, N.C. She was a teacher at Sebastian and Pelican Island elementary schools in Sebastian for 25 years. She was of Baptist faith. She was a member of the Eagles Lodge in Sebastian.
Survivors include her sister, Inez Crowe of Sebastian; brothers, Wyatte, Michael and Kevin, all of Vero Beach, Terry of Grant, and Patrick of South Korea.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Lupus Foundation 75 N.E. Sixth Ave. #223, Delray Beach, FL 33483. Services: Visitation will be 4 to 6 p.m. March 8 followed by a service at 6 p.m. at Aycock Funeral Home in Fort Pierce. Interment service will be private at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Fort Pierce.
Published in the TC Palm on Mar. 6, 2012
WEAVERVILLE - Thomas Clyde Currie, Jr., age 71, of Weaverville passed away on Thursday, March 16, 2023, at the Solace Center surrounded by his family.
Mr. Currie was born on March 20, 1951, in Henderson, North Carolina to the late Thomas Clyde Currie, Sr. and Lucy Anne Williams Currie.
Mr. Currie worked at Micro Switch in Mars Hill, and as a choir director. He served at multiple churches as a part time and full time minister of music, the majority of his career was spent at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where he served for 17 years.
Tom Currie will always be remembered as a compassionate, encouraging, loving father and husband. He was a dedicated and talented choir director/ organist who loved the Lord and encouraged all to raise their voice (would always remind us) to praise the Glory of God.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Neta L. Currie; daughters, Phoebe Anne Currie Rogers (Matthew Wayne Rogers) and Allison Kaye Currie Brown (Adam Nathaniel Brown); siblings, Gayle Wimbrow, George Currie (Susan), Robert Currie (Barbara), Pam Grissom (Greg), Susan Winstead (Gary); grandchildren, Elijah Thomas Brown, Job Nathaniel Brown, Luke Justus Brown, Ian Matthew Rogers, and Liam Xavier Rogers; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
A receiving of friends and memorial service will be held Saturday, April 1st, at Weaverville United Methodist Church to celebrate his life and love of music. The receiving of friends will begin at 1:00 pm followed by the memorial service at 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers please give donations to WNC Bridge Foundation or Weaverville United Methodist Church.
For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family under Mr. Currie’s obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.
Floree Eaves
(1932 - 2012)
ASHEVILLE - Mrs. Floree Young Eaves was born January, 9, 1932 in Union, S.C. God called her home on Friday, August 31, 2012 in Asheville, N.C. Floree was the daughter of the late Lucille and Henry Young of Union, S.C. Preceding her in death was her husband, the late Wellmon Eaves and grandson, Kahree Jefferson. Floree was educated in the Asheville City School System and was a graduate of Stephens Lee High School. She studied at Johnson C. Smith University and graduated from Mars Hill College with a degree in Elementary Education and Library Science.
Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Patrice Jefferson (Clarence Jefferson) of Glen Burnie, Md. and Kay Becton-Newman of Greensboro, N.C.; sister, Mable Burrus of Asheville, N.C.; six grandchildren, Adrienne Marsh (Jamel), Charles Campbell (Jenee), Dana Campbell (LeVette), Brandon Jefferson (Ada), Brande Jefferson, Ariel Newman; sixteen great-grandchildren; nephew, Ronnie Burrus of Asheville; extended family, Connie Faye Jones and Lamont Stewart; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Services will be held Thursday at Noon in the Chapel of Hart Funeral Service. Burial will be in Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 6:30 until 7:30 p.m. at 201 Tacoma Circle and 33 Congress Street.
Published in the Asheville Citizen-Times on Sept. 5, 2012
Mrs. Mary Melaine Enloe, age 70 of Franklin, KY went to be with the Lord at 7:30 PM on Monday, September 11, 2023 at the Medical Center in Bowling Green, KY.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023 from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at the Franklin First United Methodist Church. Funeral service will be Friday, September 15, 2023 at 12:00 pm at the Franklin First United Methodist Church. There will be no visitation or service at the funeral home. A graveside service will be held at Mount Zion Cemetery in Franklin, North Carolina, located at 75-133 Johnson Road, Franklin, NC 28734, at 1:00 PM on Monday, September 18 , 2023.
Melaine was born on October 25, 1952 in Franklin, NC to the late Robert V Hooper and the late Mary Lou Hedden Hooper.
She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Jeff Enloe of Franklin, KY; 1 sister, Jane Sutton (Bob), 3 brother in-laws, Bill Enloe (Ann), Jim Enloe (Kerry), Greg Enloe (Patti); 2 nieces, Mary Leah Sutton, Cindy Neff (Doug), 1 nephew, Timothy Enloe; and her beloved fur-babies, Patches and Flash.
Mrs. Enloe was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Franklin, KY. She attended Franklin High School in North Carolina, where she went on to earn a Bachelors of Science degree from Mars Hill College. Melaine was an associate member of the University of Kentucky Alumni Association, she enjoyed UK women’s basketball, reading, and traveling. She and her husband, Jeff have traveled extensively together throughout 48 states and 9 Canadian provinces. Although Melaine was physically handicapped, she didn’t let that prohibit her from doing anything that she set her mind on. She loved her cats and talking to people.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Melaine’s memory to: Lewis Manor Assisted Living in Franklin, KY 2901 Bowling Green Rd, Franklin, KY 42134.
Curtis W. Fetzko
Woodbridge - 67, died November 7, 2020. Curtis was born in Somerville and formerly of Bridgewater and Warren before moving to Woodbridge in 1995. He was a 1978 graduate from Mars Hill University in Asheville, North Carolina. Curtis was the Chief Financial Officer at Reagent Chemical and Research Inc. in Ringoes for over 35 years. Curtis loved his job and was a very devoted worker. In his spare time, Curtis enjoyed golfing, fishing and going on his annual fishing trip to Pine Creek in Pennsylvania. Curtis was an avid NY Giants Football fan. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
Surviving are his companion of 35 years, Renate Schnelle, Sabine and Philip Engert, Kristina and Alex Engert, his brother Allen Fetzko, his sister Susan Yarus, and two nephews Cory and Daniel.
Visitation will be 6-8pm Friday at Bruce C. VanArsdale Funeral Home, Somerville. Cremation will be private. Donations can be made to the Mountainside Rescue Squad, 1399 US-22, Mountainside, NJ 07092. To send condolences to the family, visit brucecvanarsdalefuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Courier News from Nov. 10 to Nov. 12, 2020.
Shirley Vereen Gore
Dr. Shirley Vereen Gore, the daughter of the late Rev. and Mrs. Frank B. Vereen, answered God's call with dignity on Feb. 7, 2003, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was a native of Fair Bluff, N.C., and has been a resident of Newport News, Va., since August of 1996. Dr. Gore was a Professor and Chairperson for the Department of Graduate Nursing Education at Hampton University. She was a member of Chi Eta Phi and Sigma Theta Tau, Inc., Delta Iota Chapter. She was a member of First Baptist Church Denbigh under the Pastorship of the Rev. Ivan T. Harris.
She leaves to cherish her memories, a loving husband, Kenneth Gore; three loving children, Krystal, Kimberly and Kenneth Gore Jr., all of Newport News; and a host of other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, at Hampton University Memorial Chapel and funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, at Butler Branch Baptist Church in Fair Bluff, N.C., with interment to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, at Nicholson-Cummings Funeral Home.
Published in Daily Press from Feb. 8 to Feb. 10, 2003
Tim E. Haden
Tim E. Haden, 63, of 141 Swindon Circle, died Saturday, February 23, 2008, at Greenville Memorial Medical Center, after a courageous battle with cancer. Haden is survived by his wife, Peggy Linville Haden of Greenville; stepson and daughter-in-law, Shane and Sherri Aycoth; and two grandchildren, Bennett and Erin Aycoth of Woodstock, Ga.; as well as his aunt, Dale Logsdon of Kissimmee, Fla.; and uncle and aunt, Joe and Bobbie Logsdon of Silver Springs, Md.; and a host of cousins.
Born in Asheville, N.C., he was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Emma Logsdon Haden. Haden was a graduate of Mars Hill College and attended Berklee College of Music, with graduate study at the University of Michigan, University of South Carolina and University of North Carolina-Asheville (UNCA).
Haden served as Director of Jazz Studies and Artist-in-Residence at UNCA. After his retirement, he continued to support music education as Coordinator of Jazz Studies at Clemson University, guitar instructor and combo director at UNCA, and guitar instructor at North Greenville College. During his career, Haden performed with jazz artists Keith Jarrett, Maynard Ferguson, George Benson, and Stanley Clarke among others. As a studio musician for Motown Records, he recorded and played with such artist as Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye. He organized, arranged music, and performed with nationally recognized guitar trio TRIAD, jazz-fusion group ORACLE and the UNCA Jazz Lab Big Band.
He was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church. Services will be held Thursday, February 28, 2008, at 2:30 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, located at 2310 Augusta Street. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be given to the Tim and Peggy Haden Scholarship Fund at UNCA, Development Office, CPO 1800, One University Heights, Asheville, NC 28804.
Larry Register Hale
FEBRUARY 11, 1947 – MARCH 19, 2023
Larry Register Hale, 76, of Virginia Beach, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones.
Born in Tarboro, North Carolina, Larry grew up in Hampton, VA. He enlisted in the Army in 1969 where he served several years in Korea after which he was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant so that he could attend Chowan College. There, Larry earned his degree in Accounting and went on to become a CPA. To let loose he loved hunting with friends, enjoying weeks at the beach with his fraternity brothers, and spending quality time with his family. Larry was also passionately involved in the Khedive Chapter of Shriners International, specifically the Provost Guard, where he served as Secretary/Treasurer and past-Captain.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents Raymond Hale and Marjorie Register, and his sister, Sandra Todd. Larry aka Bro and Uncle Pappy, leaves behind his sister Shelby Bullock (Jimmy Jr.), brother-in-law, Bill Todd, his niece Carrie Soden (Jeff), nephew Jacob Padgett (Tammy), and several cousins, nieces, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, other assorted family, and many caring friends.
A visitation with friends and family will be held on April 6, 2023 from 6-8 p.m. at Smith and Williams Funeral Home, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach with a Masonic service at 6:30 p.m.. A graveside service will be held on April 7, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, 5310 Milners Rd, Suffolk VA 23434, with Pastor Scott Foxwell officiating.
Ralph Michael Hall
APRIL 2, 1953 – JUNE 11, 2020
Ralph Michael Hall, 67, of Browns Summit died Thursday, June 11, 2020 after a long illness.
A celebration of his life will be held Sunday, June 14, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. at Westminster Gardens Mausoleum Chapel with Reverend Carol Gilbert officiating. Special thoughts, memories and music will be shared by Dr. Ken Lenz, Mr. David Gideon and Mr. Martin Rigsbee. Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to the service.
Ralph was born April 2, 1953 in Mt. Holly, NJ. In 1975 he graduated from Mars Hill University with a B.S. degree in Business Administration. He spent several years working as a finance office manager and in Cheerwine sales and distribution. Because of his genuine giving spirit he found working for Guilford County Schools as a part time bus driver the most rewarding.
Gardening was his passion. In the spring, he was thrilled to watch the fruit trees bud, the seeds peek through the ground and the flowers bloom. His green thumb allowed him to not only raise enough vegetables and fruits for his family, he was able to economically provide fresh produce to those in the community, as well. For several years, he was selected as a trial gardener for the National Gardening Association because he used organic methods when gardening.
Ralph enjoyed all sports, especially Duke basketball, Chicago Cubs baseball, Pittsburgh Steelers football, NASCAR and WWE wrestling. In his younger days, he played softball, basketball and football and later used those skills to coach youth sports. His observant quick mind allowed him to solve Sudoku puzzles in ink and he rarely started the day without checking on the latest news and weather. If you asked him what he wanted to eat he would usually say a cheeseburger with fries and a Dr. Pepper or Cheerwine. He loved listening to classic rock, watching television, spending time with friends and family and taking Sunday afternoon drives with no particular destination in mind.
Surviving Ralph is his wife of almost 45 years, Teresa Brendle Hall, one son, Andrew Hall and daughter-in-law, Cameron of Kernersville, NC. He’s also survived by, Dorrance Hall (Darlene) of Southampton, NJ, Judy Dasse of Costa Mesa, CA, Joy Ricker of Wantage, NJ, Jon Hall of Millville, NJ and Dean Hall (Cookie) of Hamilton Square, NJ. He was preceded in death by two sons, Jacob and Daniel Hall, his parents, Joe and Myrelda Hall and a brother, Dan Hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to AuthoraCare Collective (formerly Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro & Alamance-Caswell Counties) 2500 Summit Ave., Greensboro, NC 27504, www.authoracare.org.
Roger Dale Haynie
Roger Dale Haynie, 61, of Marshall, passed away on Friday, January 28, 2011.
Roger graduated from Marshall High School Class of 1967 where he played and lettered in three sports. He served two years in the United States Army as a Military Policeman. After his service in the army he attended Mars Hill College and received a B.S. Degree in Physical Education. He worked at Laurel Elementary School in Special Education and then moved to Madison High where he taught History and coached sports. Roger was active in the Democrat Party. He first served as President of the YDC. He was awarded YDC President of the year for the 11th Congressional District. He also served as Chairman of the North Marshall Precinct. He left the field of education and finished his career as a Probation and Parole Officer. First he served in Madison and Yancey Counties and later he was appointed 4th Judicial District Chief of Probation and Parole. He served on several boards. He was chairman of Madison County Board of Elections and Chairman of SECU of Madison County. At the time of his death he had just been elected to the Madison County Board of Commissioners. In 2006 he was awarded "The Order of The Long Leaf Pine."
Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Pascal and Eola Randall Haynie; and a sister, Penny Ann Haynie. Surviving Roger are his daughter, Tara Michelle (Jeff) Howell and, son, Aaron Pascal Haynie; granddaughter, Madelyn Kate who is to be born in March; sisters, Billie Jean Haynie and Linda H. (Ronnie) Payne; niece, Kristen Payne; and grand nieces, Hunter and Riley.
Funeral service will be held at 4 p.m., Sunday in the Chapel of Madison Funeral Home with the Rev. Dr. Stephen Loftis and the Rev. John Reid officiating. Interment will be private at the family's convenience. The family will receive friends from 12 to 4 p.m., Sunday prior to the service at the funeral home. Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to Neighbors in Need.
Published in the Asheville Citizen-Times on Jan. 29, 2011.
Ruth Lorena Jones Hensley
Ruth Lorena Jones Hensley, of 157 Laurel Loop, Asheville, died Sunday, May 2, 1999.
Mrs. Hensley was born in Asheville and was a daughter of the late Leland and Gertrude Fitzgerald Jones. After graduating from Biltmore High School, she earned a degree in education from Mars Hill College. Ruth was a former teacher and retired from West Buncombe Elementary School. She was a member of West Asheville Baptist Church.
Ruth belonged to several local groups. She was a member of the U.S. Amateur Ballroom Dancers Association, the W.N.C. Singles Club, the Opportunity House of Hendersonville, Parents Without Partners and Harvest House.
She is survived by five daughters, Deborah Carolyn Branch and her husband Ray of Old Fort, Laura Hensley Qunell and her husband Donald of Mt. Pleasant, S.C., Mary Marlene Hensley of New York City, Teresa Gertrude Hensley of Asheville and Penny Hensley Luther and her husband John David "J.D." of Asheville a son, Fred W.L. Hensley II of Asheville 10 grandchildren, Joyce McRary, Jennifer Cable, Cynthia Phillips, Rey M. Castillo Jr., Carie Ana Castillo, William Hunter Luther, Patrick Lee Cloninger, Robbie Justin Cloninger, Colleen Qunell and Steven Qunell two great-grandchildren, Billy Joe McRary and Pamela McRary four sisters, Marian Wallin of Marshall, Blanche J. Tennent and Grace J. Tennent of Asheville and Pat Waldrop of Horseshoe and three brothers, Leland J.W. Jones and Robert E. Jones of Asheville and Ben L. Jones of Federal Way, Wash.
A celebration of Ruth's life is scheduled for Thursday at West Asheville Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. James H. Johnson officiating. Private interment will be Friday afternoon at Riverside Cemetery.
Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue is in charge of arrangements.
Susan Austell Holdway
SEPTEMBER 26, 1953 – OCTOBER 26, 2022
Susan A. Holdway, of Greer, SC, went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, October 26, 2022 at her residence. Susan, 69, passed peacefully while surrounded by her loving family after a long battle with cancer and medical complications.
Born September 26, 1953 in Evanston, IL to Harold & Pat Austell, she was the youngest of three children. Growing up both in Illinois and South Carolina, Susan spent most of her time involved in church, music, and with family, a theme that carried through her life.
Susan is a 1971 graduate of Wade Hampton High School where she played the flute in the marching band. In 1975, Susan became a graduate of Mars Hill College where she was the first student to receive a diploma in Social Work. While at “The Hill,” Susan met Gene Holdway, whom she married on May 31, 1975. Those who knew them would describe their partnership as a great love story. Both Susan and Gene have continued to support Mars Hill faithfully and serve the school they love in various ways.
Susan was a devoted social worker for many years serving those in rural NC counties, as well as a long-time staff member of what was formerly The Whitten Center in Laurens, SC. She had a heart for differently abled individuals and volunteered within the special needs community for many years. Later she worked as both a homemaker and pre-school teacher and volunteered at safe houses for women and with Habitat for Humanity. Susan always continued to work for the betterment of her community.
Susan was a member of Pelham Road Baptist Church and previously served at Laurens First Baptist (Laurens, SC), Calvary Baptist (Bel Air, MD), and Edwards Road Baptist (Greenville, SC). She was a woman of faith who supported missions and faith-based organizations both prayerfully and financially throughout her life.
Susan loved Jesus Christ and her family most of all. She is most famous for “Aunt Susan Lake Cookies” and the holiday favorite, asparagus casserole. Even as her health declined, she could find a smile or word of encouragement for others. She will be most remembered as being a loving wife, wonderful mother, precious sister, and friend to all of God’s children.
Susan was preceded in death by her parents, S. Harold and Patricia R. Austell. She is survived by her husband, Roger Eugene Holdway, her children Kelly E. Holdway of Atlanta, GA, and Randall J. Holdway of Greenwood, SC, as well as her brother Samuel H. Austell and his wife Jan, and her brother J. Michael Austell and his wife Lucy. She is also survived by her aunt Blanche Davis, and her uncle M. Gib Richardson (Freddie). Additionally, she is survived by her nephews and nieces, Andrew S. Austell (Kat), Jesse S. Austell (Sandy), Elisa S. Austell (Colin Lee), Michael R. Austell, and Caroline W. Austell; two great-nephews Elliot and Arlo Austell and one great-niece, Reese Lee. Those additional family members related and not, who loved Susan are too numerous to list, a testament to her life well lived.
Arrangements will be handled by Mackey Funerals and Cremations 311 Century Drive, Greenville, SC. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at 11:00am at Pelham Road Baptist Church, 1108 Pelham Rd, Greenville, SC 29615 followed by a BBQ Luncheon and Visitation where the family will receive friends. A private family burial will follow.
Those wishing to make a memorial donation, may contribute to The Susan A. Holdway Memorial Scholarship Fund at Mars Hill University, 100 Athletic Street, Mars Hill, NC. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mackeycenturydrive.com for the Holdway family.
Terry L. Howell
January 3, 1953 – October 9, 2002
Weaverville - Terry Lee Howell, 49, died Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2002, at his home after an illness.
Terry was born Jan. 3, 1953, in Buncombe County, where he was a resident for most of his life. He was a 1971 graduate of North Buncombe High School and attended Mars Hill College and Carolina Institute of Broadcasting. He was formerly program director at WPNF Radio in Brevard and WISE Radio in Asheville. He recently retired from the Buncombe County Sheriff's Department as staff sergeant.
Terry was the beloved son of Harry G. and Helen "Kay" Allen Howell.
Surviving in addition to his parents, are his wife, Joyce Griffith Howell; stepdaughter, Jennifer Anderson, her husband, Alvin and their son, Kory; sister, Martha Howell Burnette and husband, Van; and brother, Roger A. Howell and Shannon and their son, Cain.
The full obituary may be found in the October 11, 2002 edition of the Asheville Citizen-Times, Page 14
Mark Houston Hoyt
Mark Houston Hoyt, 24, died Thursday at his home after a long illness. (McConnells SC)
Services: September 25, 1981 at Olivet Presbyterian Church by the Rev. Fred Thompson, burial in Olivet Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Mark Hoyt Scholarship Fund, Mars Hill College, Mars Hill, NC. York Funeral Home.
Published in the Spartanburg Herald-Journal on September 25, 1981.
Paul E Ipock
March 24, 1953 – October 21, 1991
Port Republic, Virginia
Paul Emerson Ipock's record store in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
by Jeff Haden, Inc. 15 Mar 2012
I feel terrible every time I drive by the old brick building. Years ago it was the home of a record store. I was new to the area and into music the way a guy of my generation with no social life was into music, so I checked it out.
Over time I got to know the owner. Unlike many people with a deep knowledge of a specific subject (see: snobs, Wine) Paul was never judgmental or snooty. He saw musical tastes for what they are: individual, subjective, never wrong. Just different. He quickly picked up on mine. At first it seemed odd that whenever I walked in his store he was playing a newly-released album I had eagerly awaited. One week it was The Clash’s "London Calling," another Pink Floyd’s "The Wall," another U2’s "Boy."
Later I realized that when he saw me on the sidewalk he quickly put new albums he knew I would love on the turntable. It wasn’t a sales tactic; he just enjoyed seeing the, “Hey, cool, is that the new Van Halen album?” expression on my face when I walked in. Paul was the first person I knew who built a lifestyle business. He loved music and wanted to be around other people who loved music. In time he asked me to watch his store some Saturdays—he paid me not in cash but in records—so he could spend whole weekends with his young family. I did not then but know now the trust implied: His store was his baby and he felt I would take good care of it.
It was a fun job but it was also my first peek behind the curtain of business ownership. I got my first glimpses of the practical aspects of entrepreneurship, and the personal. I met Paul while I was in college. He was my first “adult” friend, someone I became friends with because we shared common
interests and not because we worked together or went to the same school.
He was the first person to invite me to his home for a “grown-up” dinner. I remember sitting at the table with his wife and beautiful young daughter and feeling surprisingly—although undeservedly—mature. He was the first person I asked over for pizza when I bought a house.
Today, little events we take for granted; when we're growing up, milestone moments. Later he closed the store. As the years passed I saw him less and less. We still ran into each other occasionally, but we traveled in different circles. At least that's what I told myself.
Then I heard he was seriously ill. I thought about calling, but the distance I had allowed to grow between us made me hesitant and I never did. Then I found out, months after the fact, he had passed away.
Paul was a good guy in the best sense of the expression. He started a record store because he loved music. He learned to play harmonica so he could play with friends who were musicians.And he befriended a college kid with more attitude than sense, trusted him with his business, invited him into his home, and showed him by example what it means to be a husband, a father, a businessman,
and a man. He never asked for anything in return.
Paul Emerson Ipock died on October 21, 1991. I learned the date of his passing, many years too late, on a cold and quiet winter morning in the small country cemetery where he was laid to rest. I stood for a long time in front of his black, frost-speckled gravestone.
Eventually I stood to go. Then I paused. I thought I should say a few words, but words were hard to find. Finally I just said, “Paul, you were a really good guy. I should have been there. I’m sorry I wasn’t. You deserved better.” As I spoke, my breath created a mist that disappeared into the cold winter air.
Paul was not the kind of entrepreneur who drew attention. He never sought fame. He never achieved fortune. But he, and his small business, made a profound impact on me, and, I feel sure, on others. In that way, possibly the most important way, he was a tremendous success.
While that old brick building stands as a symbol of friendship given and not returned, it also stands as a symbol of the true meaning of entrepreneurship: Striving to make a difference, even if only one person at a time.
Martha Ann Gray Kellett
Martha Ann Gray Kellett, 54, of 105 Grandview Circle, passed away Monday, May 14, 2007, at her home.
Born in Fountain Inn, S.C., she was a daughter of Jimmie Mae Willis Gray and the late Charles Evans Gray. Mrs. Kellett was a 1975 graduate of Mars Hill College, an employee of the Open Book in Greenville, and a member of Travelers Rest United Methodist Church.
In addition to her mother, she is survived by her husband of 28 years, Michael W. Kellett of the home; a daughter, Katherine Gray and fiance, Luke Mills, of Greenville; a son, Michael William Kellett II of the home; a sister, Mary Gray Charping and husband, Phillip, of Taylors; and a brother, Charles Evans Gray, Jr. and wife, Jennie, of Mauldin.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 3 p.m. at Travelers Rest United Methodist, with burial at Coleman Memorial Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Salkahatchie Mission Project c/o Travelers Rest United Methodist Church, 19 S. Main Street, Travelers Rest, SC 29690; or the American Cancer Society , 154 Milestone Way, Greenville, SC 29615.
Published in The Greenville News on May 15, 2007
Ralph Thomas Lucado, Jr
08 Oct 1952 - 11 Aug 1998
Son of Ralph Thomas & Chloe
Mildred "Millie" Parkman McGhee
Clearwater, SC--Mrs. Mildred Millie Parkman McGhee, 62, wife of the late Richard William McGhee, entered into rest on Sunday, May 24th, 2015.
Born in Augusta, GA and a resident of Edgefield, SC, until 1986, she was a daughter of the late Charlie F. Sr. and Sarah Ellen Hobbs Parkman. Following the death of her parents, she was loved and cared for by her uncle and aunt, James and Lucille Covar. She was a Teacher at South Aiken Baptist Christian School. Millie was a dedicated member of Christ Baptist Church, where she served as Pianist. She was also involved in the South Carolina Baptist Convention Disaster Relief and the WMU.
In addition to her husband and parents, family members include a daughter, Coleen Randall, Atlanta, GA; siblings, Freddie (Yvonne) Parkman, Columbia, SC and Charlotte (James) Parkman Goff, Bath, SC; grandchildren, A.J. Randall-McGee, Kaylee Brianne Randall-McGee, Mia Alexandria Cruz and Dominique Cruz-Randall and close friends, members of the Petit family, as well as, Dale and Barbara Couch and Shelby Proctor.
In accordance with her wishes, a Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, May 28th, 2015, at 11 oclock at Christ Baptist Church, 770 W. Five Notch Rd., North Augusta, SC, with Pastor Eddie West and Pastor Eddie Pettit officiating. The family has respectively asked that flowers be omitted and memorials in her memory be made to the Connie Maxwell Childrens Home. (www.conniemaxwell.com) The family will greet friends on Thursday from 10 oclock until the time of service at Christ Baptist Church. Hatcher Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Langley, SC.
Sandra Rosemond Maples
Linda Davis March
Linda Davis March, age 58, passed away on Saturday, August 18th, 2012 after a lengthy and hard-fought battle with cancer. She was an Erwin native who spent the majority of her adult life in Asheville, North Carolina. During the last portion of her life, she was able to come home to live again in the Valley Beautiful. She is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Eulala Davis. She is survived by her siblings, Beth Davis, Bryon Davis, and Dianne Christie, aunts and uncles, numerous cousins and extended family, and her two sons, Adam March and Drew March, whom she loved more than life itself.
She was an avid writer. She published two books: from the Images of America Series, Erwin and Unicoi County, and the 1st Edition of the Insider's Guide to North Carolina's Mountains. In addition to these, she had numerous articles featured in regional newspapers and magazines such as the Erwin Record, the Johnson City Press, and the Asheville Citizen-Times. She was also the scriptwriter for several documentaries around the Asheville area.
During the latter years of her life, she devoted her time and energy into bettering the communities in Unicoi County as both a resident of Erwin and professionally as the Community Relations Coordinator for the Town of Unicoi. She was instrumental in the planning and implementation of both the Wayne Scott Strawberry Festival and the Unicoi Freedom Fest in addition to overseeing and coordinating both the annual Christmas and Strawberry Festival Parades. Even in the midst of terrible sickness, she brought life and joy to those who knew her.
A memorial service will be held in the sanctuary of Heritage Baptist Church at 1512 John Exum Parkway, Johnson City, TN 37604 on Thursday, August 23rd, 2012. Receiving of friends and family will be from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with eulogies from her family to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Linda Davis March Memorial Fund to help defray funerary costs. If interested, please send all donations to the Clinchfield Federal Credit Union, c/o Rick Phillips at PO Box 310, Erwin, TN 37650.
Steven Carter Miller
August 10, 1953 - November 12, 2023
Steven Carter Miller, 70, of Greensboro, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Sunday, November 12, 2023.
Steve was born on August 10, 1953 in York, SC to Earne Quinn and Martha Carter Miller. He and his twin sister, Debbie, were raised with great love and faith. He cultivated a strong work ethic from working at his father's service station.
Steve's love of music began early on. After playing trumpet in York High School's band program, he pursued a Bachelor of Music degree from Mars Hill College, with a focus on music education and trumpet performance. He taught instrumental and choral music at Madison-Mayodan High School and Middle School and served as the Music Director at Reedy Fork Baptist Church. He also earned his Master of Education in Educational Administration from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Steve's passion for music education and brass music lasted his entire life. During his retirement, he served on the board of directors for Carolina Crown Drum & Bugle Corps and the North Carolina Brass Band. He also passed his love of music to his sons, who both followed in his footsteps and played the trumpet.
After leaving education, Steve began a 25-year career in law enforcement. He began as a Probation Officer for the State of North Carolina, then served as a United States Probation Officer in the Middle District of North Carolina for 21 years. During this time, he served as a Sentencing Guideline Specialist and a Supervisor. His diligence and attention to detail were appreciated by all those who worked with him.
Steve was an active member of Westover Church, where he sang in the choir, served on the safety team, and participated in Men's Bible Study. He always looked forward to the fellowship of his Bible Study group, as well as his Sunday "lunch bunch." Steve volunteered for mission trips with Westover Church to Bonaire, Cuba, and Ankara, Turkey, where he made many lasting relationships and fond memories.
Steve was a caring and kind man who did his best to help others, especially through his work in education, law enforcement, and volunteering. He was predeceased by his parents, and is survived by sons, Grant Coleman Miller (wife Morgan) and Jordan Quinn Miller, his twin sister, Deborah Miller Lowe, nephews, Robert and Jonathan Lowe, and his granddaughter, Brynn Coleman Miller, who he loved being "Grandpa" to.
A memorial service will be held at Westover Church on Saturday, December 2 at 2 p.m. The family will receive friends after the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Carolina Crown Drum & Bugle Corps (www.carolinacrown.org/donate), the North Carolina Brass Band (www.ncbrassband.org/donate) or the Westover Church Mission Fund (www.westoverchurch.com/).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Greensboro News & Record on Nov. 26, 2023.
Graham Wyche Mintz
September 18, 1952 - November 12, 2024
Graham Wyche Mintz, age 72, of Princeton, KY, passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Evansville, IN. Graham was born in Whiteville, NC on September 18, 1952, the son of Mary Clayton Wyche Mintz and the late Harry L. Mintz, Jr. He spent his earliest years in Shallotte, NC before moving to Hallsboro, NC in 1960. He graduated from Hallsboro High School in 1971. In his senior year he made the top score in the state of North Carolina on a statewide history test administered by UNC-Chapel Hill and won a scholarship. He was a member of the cross-country track team at Hallsboro High and played piano. His favorite recital piece was “In the Hall of the Mountain King”.
Education was very important to Graham, and he attended Mars Hill College where he graduated with honors in history and then earned a master’s in library science at the George Peabody School of Library Science in Nashville, Tennessee which later merged with Vanderbilt University. Graham worked in his profession of librarianship in public, academic, and state libraries in Kentucky and North Carolina until his retirement from Kentucky State Penitentiary in 2005.
Graham met his beloved wife Cheryl Nanette Franklin at the Madisonville Kentucky Public Library. He was giving a tour to a group of visiting librarians and afterwards said “She was the only one who laughed at my jokes.” They were married in Earlington Kentucky in 1982. They made their home together in Princeton Kentucky where Graham, a lifelong Methodist, became a member of the Ogden Memorial United Methodist Church where he enjoyed hearing and seeing his wife Cheryl singing in the choir.
Graham and Cheryl enjoyed travel to many historic sites in Kentucky, Tennessee, and North Carolina. He particularly enjoyed his return trips to North Carolina to visit his mother, other relatives, Calabash-style seafood restaurants, and historic train sites. Together, Cheryl and Graham co-parented a series of adorable beagles including, Georgia, Daisy Mae, and most recently Barney the Beagle. The beagles eagerly returned his affection as did the other neighborhood dogs who received treats whenever he took walks in the area. He particularly enjoyed reading history and biography, and he thoroughly enjoyed keeping up with current events as he monitored politics at the local, state, and national levels.
Graham loved his immediate and extended family members and eagerly kept up with the educational and career activities of each generation. He never failed to ask about all of his cousins and he never failed to speak of their accomplishments with great pride as he visited many of them on his return trips to NC. Graham was renowned in his family for his phenomenal memory and his excellent recall particularly for places and events related to family activities, politics, history, and geography. He was a great resource whenever someone had forgotten details.
Graham is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryl Franklin, his 106-year-old mother, Mary Wyche Mintz, one sister, Mary McBryde Mintz and her husband James May, one brother, Henry L. Mintz, one nephew, Robert Henry Mintz, and one niece, Mary Rebekah Mintz, and many cousins, their children, and grandchildren. He was adopted by his wife’s family and loved them as much as he did his family of origin. Those survivors include his sister-in-laws, Mollie Trunnell and Shirley Franklin, brother-in-law, Jim Duncan and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation for Graham Mintz will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Morgan's Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 PM at Morgan's Funeral Home with Rev. Shelley Caulder officiating. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery in Princeton.
Memorial contributions may be made in Graham's memory to Ogden Memorial United Methodist Church: 305 W Main St, Princeton, KY 42445
Patricia Pepper Orr
February 4, 1954 - May 30, 2024
The Reverend Dr. Patricia Pepper Orr was born on February 4, 1954, to Alvin and Mildred Pittman Pepper. She was a graduate of Mars Hill College with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity, Erskine Theological Seminary with a Doctor of Ministry degree.
Patricia felt a call to ministry in her teenage years and she was eventually ordained. She served in ministry all her adult life in various positions, which included Christian Crisis Ministry, Children's Home Ministry, Hospital Chaplaincy, Prison Chaplaincy and served as Pastor for four appointments within the Methodist Church.
She is survived by her older brother, William Alvin Pepper; niece, Kimberly Fields (John); nephew, Michael Pepper (LeAnn); brother, John Walston Pepper, (Jill); nephew, Joshua Pepper (Crystal); niece, Jordan Pepper; and three great nephews, TJ, Carter and Ethan.
The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 27, 2024, 11 a.m., at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, 2236 Bethlehem Road, Hartsville, SC 29550. Interment will follow at the church cemetery. The family request in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Emerald Coast Hospice, 2190 Airport Blvd, Suite 2850, Pensacola, FL 32504 or a charity of your choice.
Visitation to be held one hour before the service.
Carolyn Palmer
April 14, 1941 — April 20, 2017
Swannanoa--Carolyn Hudgins Palmer, 76, a native of Buncombe County, passed from this life into eternity at 8:20 PM on Thursday, April 20, 2017. Carolyn was the oldest child, born April 14, 1941, to Hilliard H. Hudgins and Bonnie Williams Hudgins, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded by her two sons, Jerry Lee Palmer and Jack Palmer, Jr.; grandson, David Mark Whitaker and brother, David Hudgins.
As a child, Carolyn lived with her family in Woodfin and she also attended Woodfin Elementary and Clyde A. Erwin High School, class of 1959. After high school, Carolyn married and had six children. All while raising her children, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from Mars Hill College in 1975, finishing in three years with a degree in early childhood education. Carolyn retired after 30 years of teaching Kindergarten children in the Asheville City Schools. She was an avid poet, loved genealogy and working in her garden.
Surviving are her daughter, Carla Lynn Ballard of Arden; three sons, John Palmer of Ogden, UT, Joe Palmer of Swannanoa and Joshua Palmer of Huntington Beach, CA; grandchildren, Sarah Whitaker of Arden, Katie Palmer and Jennie Jacobsen of Ogden, UT, Matthew and Ben Palmer of Fletcher and Kristen Hensley of Arden; 12 great grandchildren; her baby sister, Sandra King to whom was like a mother and brother-in-law, Sam King of Alexander; several nieces and nephews who loved her and called her Granny C and special friend, Lori Crook.
Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at Newbridge Baptist Church with Rev. Clark E. Henderson and Rev. Wesley Pike officiating. Burial will follow in Elk Mountain Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 AM Wednesday at the church.
Claude Dean Pendergraft
Claude Dean Pendergraft was born circa 1945, to Paul Dean Pendergraft and Edith Turner.
Claude passed away in 1988, at age 43, Durham, North Carolina.
Steve Prater
Steven Edward Prater, 68, died Saturday, June 20, 2020.
Born in Greenville, he was the son of the late Edward and Evelyn Prater.
Steve was a graduate of Wade Hampton High School and Mars Hill College. He served his country as a member of the United States Army and enjoyed hiking with his son.
He is survived by his son, Joe Prater of Charlotte; sister, Cheryl Prater; and brother, Mike Prater, both of Simpsonville.
A private family service will be held.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 154 Milestone Way Ste A, Greenville, SC 29615.
Keith Aldean Pyrtle
Keith Aldean Pyrtle was born August 29, 1947 and died August 26, 2001.
He served in the U.S. Navy for four years and attended Mars Hill College, Gardner-Webb University, and the University of South Carolina. He had a great love for music and throughout the years had served as church organist. At his death he was employed as a tour guide with the USS Missouri.
Nancy Elizabeth Greer Radford
July 14, 1953 - December 31, 2023
Nancy G. Radford, of Greenville, SC, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2023, at the age of 70. Born in Asheville, NC, she was the daughter of the late Plato Whittington Greer and Zella E Graham Greer.
Nancy was survived by her cherished niece and nephews: James Thomas Greer, Jeffrey Allen Greer, Steven Arthur Greer, Kevin Russell Greer, Amy Greer Byce, Gregory Whittington Greer, and Stuart Carroll Greer; eight great nephews and seven great nieces and a very special great-great-niece, Zella Gene Lumpkin and great-great-nephew, Greyson Alexander Hanley; and two sister-in-laws, Carol Sue Greer and Nancy Quinn Greer.
In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her niece, Tammy Greer Hanley and two brothers, Wilbur Kent Greer and James Walter Greer.
Nancy was a loving and caring aunt. She loved her two cats Rom & Ginny, enjoyed afternoon football and was an avid reader.
The family will have a private ceremony at a later date.
James Allen Ramsey (not sure if correct one)
September 20, 1954 - August 3, 2009
Florida
Thomas “Tom” Case Reece, 74, of Hickory, passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at his residence.
He was born July 8, 1949 in Rutherford County to the late Kenneth William Reece Sr. and Bernice Reece Parks. He was a member of Sandy Ridge Baptist Church in Hickory. Tom served honorably in the United States Navy and was a member of the American Legion Post 544. He graduated from Mars Hill University and Radford University where he earned his Masters degree in Psychology and Social Work. Tom retired after 30 years serving the elderly community by providing best of life care services. He was selected as one of seven national senior care leaders to create the first National Aging Program Information System (NAPIS) in 1992, which was used to deliver critical care needs and funding established by the Older Americans Act (OAA).
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth William Reece Jr.; sister, Barbara “Bobbie” Whiteside; and brothers-in-law, Bruce Neal and Norman Penland; and sister-in-law, Mary Penland Wise.
Those left to cherish his memory are; his beloved wife of 53 years: Sharon Penland Reece of the home; his son, Thomas Kevin Reece and wife Katie of Greenville, SC; his daughter, Emily Reece Boyd of Hickory; his sisters: Brenda Neal and Cathy Bowman; his brothers-in-law, William Whiteside and John Bowman; his sisters-in-law: Beverly Penland and Kathryn Reece; and his grandchildren: Jonathan Boyd, Austin Boyd, Aubree Reece, and Kaiden Reece.
Tom was also loved by numerous special nieces and nephews.
A small private family celebration of life service will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens in Hickory at a later date. Rev. Bill Sturm will officiate.
Memorials may be made to Sandy Ridge Baptist Church, 3702 16th St. NE, Hickory, NC 28601; or to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658
Condolences may be sent to the Reece family at www.bennettfuneralservice.com
Jim Rivers
Jim Rivers of Charlotte passed away on December 19, 2010, at the age of 60. Jim was predeceased by his parents, Gonzalie and Joy Abel Rivers, of Raleigh. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Deborah McManaway Rivers, as well as his son and daughter-in-law, Carson and Christy Rivers, of
Boone. Jim was born in Hamlet on February 26, 1950, and grew up in Salisbury and Raleigh. He graduated from Broughton High School in Raleigh in 1968 and from Mars Hill College in 1975. He also attended Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest from 1975-1978. After coming to Charlotte in 1991, Jim was active in Scouting, serving as Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 91 in Pineville and earning the recognition of the Order of the Arrow and Wood Badge training. He worked as a store manager for Carolina Canoe and Klingspor Woodworking Shop and in maintenance administration and corporate safety for Carolinas Medical Center. A service celebrating Jim’s life was held at Wedgewood Baptist Church in Charlotte on Thursday, December 23, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a reception in the church fellowship hall. Memorial contributions may be made to Wedgewood Baptist Church or Pineville United Methodist Church, the two churches where Jim volunteered much of his time and talent over the past twenty years.
Charlotte Observer
Jim's wife, Deborah, was also in the Class of 1975. She sent us this note: Many Mars Hillians know that Jim was a very active thespian while he was at Mars Hill, working regularly as a stage actor and technician between the years of 1968 and 1975. Dr. Virgil Gray was his mentor. Jim was also involved in ongoing improvements to Owen Theatre, a place which we were especially nostalgic about, not just because of all the time we spent working there together but because we first met there playing husband and wife in the melodrama Pure as the Driven Snow. We married on June 23, 1973, while we were students at Mars Hill. Jim also worked for SART during its earliest years from 1975-78. He was a very talented guitarist, pianist, and singer as well.
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William “W.C” Carroll Rogers, age 74, passed away at his home surrounded by those he loved on January 8, 2024. W.C. was born August 7, 1949, in Buncombe County to the late Thomas Hoyle Rogers and the late Lethia Sluder Rogers and loved growing up among the mountains where he was born and raised.
W.C. was a well-known figure in the Leicester Community. As we recall his great passion as a devoted farmer and cattleman, we remember his ability to garden and raise all types of crops and vegetables, flowers, all types of berries which he hand-picked himself. His garden was widely known. The special type of corn that he raised each year, known as “candy corn”, was loved by family and friends. W.C. was also an excellent cook and was famous for his fresh apple cakes that were made with hand-cracked black walnuts. This delicious dessert was a favorite among family and friends and was always requested at every special occasion. W.C. was blessed with a kind and giving manner and loved playing games with his grandchildren which will be memories they will cherish forever.
Mr. Rogers retired with many dedicated years from Square D Corporation where he was a Senior Materials Analyst. During his time with Square D, he developed a love for golf and coaching softball. Prior to his employment. W.C. was a United States Army veteran having served two tours in Vietnam and earning a bronze star for his valor. W.C. was greatly loved and his legacy will remain always with his family.
Surviving are his loving wife, Brenda Clemmons Rogers; his son, William David Rogers; his daughter, Trina Hugg (Dustin); his granddaughter, Jordan Nichols (Colby); his grandsons, Cameron Hugg and Clayt Campbell; his sisters, Phyllis Adams (Lee) and Jacqueline Gillespie (Harold) and a number of special nieces and nephews.
A memorial service to honor the life of W.C. will be held at 2:00PM on Saturday, January 13, 2024, in the chapel of Crawford / Ray Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a favorite charity in memory of Mr. Rogers. Crawford /Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service is honored to be caring for the Rogers family.
Eilleen Flynn Rowe
Eilleen Flynn Rowe, 83, of 7 Carjen Ave., Asheville, died Tuesday, May 6, 2008, at her residence.
Born in Indiana, Mrs. Rowe was the daughter of the late Leonard Earl Flynn and Eva Belle McCoy Flynn. Mrs. Rowe is survived by her husband of 61 years, James Dorsey Rowe; her daughters and sons-in-law, Sharon and Rick Spangler, of Winston-Salem, Vicki Rowe-Currence and David Currence, of Asheville, Marcia and Mark Sherwin, of Oakton, Va., and Lisa and Scott Ralls, of New Bern, N.C.; brothers, Leonard Flynn, of Tallahassee, Fla. and Robert Flynn, of Ft. Worth, Texas; and
grandchildren, Charlotte, Anne, Richard and Elizabeth Spangler, Ansley, Jordan and Liza Sherwin, and Benjamin and Lucas Ralls.
Mrs. Rowe was a registered nurse and worked as a nursing instructor at A.B. Tech for over 13 years. Mrs. Rowe was a devoted member of First Baptist Church for 53 years, where she taught Sunday school, served as a life deacon and as a Women's Missionary Union director. She combined her faith and talents to help found the WNC Slavic Ministries and to volunteer for the Red Cross.
A memorial service for Mrs. Rowe will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Guy Sayles officiating. Her family will receive friends at a reception in the church atrium following the service. Memorials may be made to Care Partners Hospice Care, P.O. Box 25338, Asheville, NC 28813, or First Baptist Church Faith You Can See, 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC 28801.
Donnie Alan Slye, 64, of Asheville, passed away on Tuesday, May 9, 2017. A native of Harrisonburg, VA, Donnie was the son of the late Edward C. and Louise Pirkey Slye. "Slye" graduated from UNCA with a bachelor's degree in biology. He worked for many years as the 7th grade science teacher at Owen Middle School. He enjoyed supporting the Owen High School girls softball team and watching his son play football. He was a member of and enjoyed spending time at Mack Kells, where he also worked for many years as he paid for his schooling. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge, where he volunteered for many years as their Santa Claus during Christmastime. Slye is survived by his sons, Charlie and Eddy Slye; sister, Diane Nichols (Roger); brother, Bucky Foley; niece, Jennifer Taylor; nephew, Chris Nichols; uncle, Kenneth Slye (Sherry); former wife, Terry Slye and her brother, Chuck Freeman; adopted family, Mary Jane Winfrey and John Bernhardt; best friend, Tony Sapp; his "houseful of boys;" and his two dogs, Bullet and Jackson. Slye's family invites his friends to join them in celebrating his life on Saturday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wild for Life: Center for Rehabilitation of Wildlife, 33 Possum Trot, Asheville, NC 28806, or through their website, www.wildforlife.org/
Brenda Gail Hale Snyder
Brenda Gail Hale Snyder, 59, of Greenville, SC, passed on Tuesday, September 24, 2013. Mrs. Snyder is the wife of Richard Lewis Snyder, Sr., and the daughter of Elizabeth Hale and the late Rev. Dr. Wade H. Hale.
Mrs. Snyder was born on June 23, 1954, in Greenville, South Carolina and lived her entire life in the Greenville area. She graduated from Blue Ridge High School in Greer, South Carolina, Mars Hill College in Mars Hill, North Carolina (B.S.), and Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina (MA). Ricky and Brenda Snyder were married on August 13, 1977.
Mrs. Snyder was employed by Haynsworth, Sinkler Boyd, PA as the Director of Risk Management and Manager of Human Resources, Greenville Office.
Mrs. Snyder is survived by her husband, Richard Lewis Snyder, Sr., her daughter, Keri Snyder Graves and husband, Charles Buckley Graves, III of Tunica, Mississippi, her son, Richard Lewis Snyder, Jr. and wife, Andreana Horowitz Snyder of Greenville, her grandchildren, Rachael Anita Elizabeth Graves and Charles Buckley Graves, IV, her mother, Elizabeth Hale, and her sister, Judy Hale Dennison of Venice, Florida. Mrs. Snyder is predeceased by her father, the Rev. Dr. Wade H. Hale.
The service to celebrate Brenda's life will be on Sunday, September 29, 3:00 PM, at the First Presbyterian Church, 200 W Washington Street, Greenville, SC, 29601. Family will receive friends prior to the service, 1:30 3:00 PM, in the church parlor. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in memory of Mrs. Brenda Snyder to First Presbyterian Church, 200 W Washington Street, Greenville, SC 29601, Greenville Humane Society, 305 Airport Road, Greenville, SC 29607, or Greenville Children's Hospital, 701 Grove Road, Greenville, SC 29605.
Donna Zotti Sokoloskis
January 9th, 1954 – September 20th, 2024
Donna (Zotti) Sokoloskis, 70, passed away on September 20, 2024. She was a loved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed spending time outside “playing” in the yard. She also enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Most of all she was known for her love of Jesus. She loved reading and learning the word of God.
She is survived by her husband of 44 years, Robert Sokoloskis, son, Shawn Sokoloskis, daughter and son in-law, Melinda and Travis Gates, grandchildren, Ashton and Benjamin, sister and brother in-law, Esther and Steve Marsh, brother in-law Mike Flora and nieces and nephews, Sharla (Tim) Chinniah, Tyler Marsh, Heather (Tyler) Sigler and great nieces and nephews, Analise, Joshua, Brayden, Autumn, and Brinley.
She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Zotti, mother, Mary “Polly” Zotti, and sister, Mary Flora.
Celebration of Life Service will begin at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at Oak Ridge Funeral Care (2425 Havendale Boulevard NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881).
William A. “Bill” Stansell
William A. “Bill” Stansell, 60, of Lawrenceville, GA died unexpectedly Tuesday, April 1, 2014. He was a native and lifetime resident of the Atlanta area. He was a graduate of Gordon Military College, Mars Hill University with a BS degree in Biology, and Middle Tennessee State University with a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling. Bill worked for C.T.B.-McGraw Hill, Testing Division, in Tennessee and Georgia, owned and operated Spiced Right BBQ in Lilburn, Georgia, and was presently working as a chef for Hope Memory Care Center in Lawrenceville. He was of the Methodist faith.
He was the son of the late Albert Lee and Mary Ellen Arendell Stansell.
Surviving are his wife of 35 years, Gail Walker Stansell; a sister, Sandra Myrick Akins of Arkansas; a niece, Kimberly Myrick Korth; a nephew, Justin Myrick; and his two good buddies, Meester and Lilli.
Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM Saturday, April 5, 2014 in the Chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy with the Rev. Rob Rollins officiating. Interment was in Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were Pete Lauderdale, Joey and Nick Harp, Sam Davis, Barry McClure, and Dr. Bill Dyer. The family received friends from 5:30-7:00 Friday evening at the Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of William A. “Bill” Stansell to the Murphy First United Methodist Church, PO Box 86, Murphy, NC 28906.
Defoix E. “Bucky” Suttle, Jr
September 12, 1952 – September 27, 2001
Married Kathi Gibbs in Spartanburg on New Years’ Day 1984. Landrum, SC
Gregory Paul Swinehart
Gregory Paul Swinehart, age 69, of Erwin, passed away on Friday, December 31, 2021 at Johnson City Medical Center. A native of Elkhart, IN, Gregory is a son of the late Clyde Allen and Ruth Ellen (Sommers) Swinehart. He was an Engineer for CSX Transportation until his retirement and was a member of Ninth Street Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon. Previously, Gregory was a Teacher at Evans Elementary for 5 years. He enjoyed sports and hunting and was a die-hard Volunteer fan for life.
Gregory Paul Swinehart has left behind to cherish his memory: wife of 47 years: Susanne (Kelley) Swinehart; daughters: Sharon Swinehart Miles, Karen Swinehart Key and husband, Andy; granddaughters: Violet Key, Andra Miles; brothers: Gary Swinehart and wife, Patricia, Randy Swinehart and wife, Tessa; brothers-in-law: John C. Kelley and wife, Sue, Frank Kelley; nephews: John Swinehart and wife, Tiffany, Matt Swinehart and wife, Shelley, Chad Swinehart and wife Emily; nieces: Tori Swinehart, Missy Kelley Whitehead and husband, Benji; great-nephews: Lucas Swinehart, Wyatt Swinehart, Caleb Swinehart, Jack Swinehart, John Matthew Swinehart, Dakota Schwenke; great-niece: Jolene Swinehart.
The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Gregory Paul Swinehart in a committal service to be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 in Evergreen Cemetery. Pastor Carl Connelly and Reverend John Wilson will officiate. Those attending should meet at Evergreen Cemetery by 9:50 am for the service. Serving as pallbearers will be Richard Hodges, Andy Key, John Swinehart, Matt Swinehart, Lucas Swinehart and Caleb Swinehart.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Gregory's name to the Ninth Street Baptist Church Building Fund, 310 9th Street, Erwin, TN 37650.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at www.valleyfuneralhome.net or on Facebook at FuneralHomeErwin. These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Gregory Paul Swinehart through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, 423-743-9187.
Johnny Wayne Taylor
MOORE- Johnny Wayne Taylor, 71, of 628 Melrose Park Lane, formerly of Enoree went home to be with the Lord, Saturday, December 28, 2019 at Regional Hospice Home.
A native of Spartanburg County, he was the son of John Irvin "J.I." Taylor Jr. and the late Emily Canary Smith Taylor. He was the husband of Mildred Harris Knox Taylor of the home and was first married to the late Nancy Boggs Taylor. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Spartanburg where he was a member of the Young at Heart and the Koinonia Life Group. He was a longtime former member of Cedar Shoals Baptist Church in Enoree where he was teacher of the Men's Adult Sunday School Class, a Deacon and an Usher. Wayne was a 1966 graduate of Woodruff High School and was a graduate of Mars Hill College where he received a Bachelor's of Science Degree. He was a retired plant manager and superintendent with Beaumont Mill and T&S in Greer. He was also affiliated in sales with Taylor Boys Produce in Enoree. He served in the U.S. Army as a Military Policeman.
Surviving are two sons, Jeff (Kimberly) Taylor of Enoree and Jeremy (Amanda) Taylor of Woodruff;
step-daughter, Kelly (Matt) Roper of Pauline; step-son, Dr. Chris (Lisa) Knox of Greenwood; brother, Roger (Devra) Taylor of Enoree; grandchildren, Bradley (Mikayla) Taylor, Brayden Taylor, Brooklyn Taylor, Carrie Vaughn, Logan Taylor, Elijah Taylor, Wes Taylor, Abigail Taylor, Nathan Roper, Josh Roper, Adam Knox and Avery Knox.
Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, January 5, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. at Cedar Shoals Baptist Church by Mr. Jeff Taylor and Rev. Brad Starnes. Interment will follow in the church cemetery with a committal by Rev. Brad Starnes and Military Honors rendered by the U.S. Army. Visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. prior to the service in the church sanctuary. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to REFLECT Youth Ministry C/O Enoree First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 216, Enoree, S.C. 29335. The family is at the residence. Lanford-Gwinn Mortuary, Woodruff To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Spartanburg Herald-Journal on Jan. 3, 2020.
Sherry Aiken Thackston
Greer--Sherry Aiken Thackston, 59, of 300 Father Hugo Drive, Greer, passed away Wednesday evening, October 5, 2011 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Greenville, she was a daughter of the late James Perry Aiken and Algene Blair Aiken.
Sherry attended Mars Hill College. She was a lifetime member of First Presbyterian Church where she taught for over 20 years at First Presbyterian Academy.
She is survived by her loving family, her husband of 36 years, M. Rhett Thackston, Sr., of the home; her sons and daughters-in-law, Michael R. and Kristin Thackston, Jr. of Greenville, and J. Ryan and Brittany Thackston of New York, NY; her sister, Mary Lane Strickland of Simpsonville; and her brother, Jimmy Aiken of Surfside Beach.
Funeral service will be Sunday, October 9, 2011 at 2:00pm at First Presbyterian Church with the Reverend Dr. Pamela Patrick Cole and Reverend Dr. Randolph Kowalski officiating. Entombment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Sunday from 12:45 to 1:45pm prior to the service in the church parlor. Memorials may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, 301 Halton Road, Suite D-2, Greenville, SC 29607
Published in The Greenville News on Oct. 7, 2011
Mr. Kerry Emerson Way of Lexington, South Carolina passed away, sudden but peacefully on July 5, 2025 while sailing on Lake Murray. Known for his big smile and love for Jesus, Kerry always brought joy to every person he met.
Born November 8, 1952 to John Edward Way, Sr. and Elizabeth Way (née Richards) in Morristown, TN, Kerry graduated from Mars Hill University with a degree in Business Administration. Led by his interest in technology (and tinkering!), he worked in the technology services field throughout his career. He was a devoted deacon and Sunday School teacher. He freely shared the gift of music, and passed his free time with “project” cars and motorcycles, camping and sailing with friends and family, and home improvements one after another. He always left things better off than he found them.
Kerry was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Richards Way; father, John Edward Way, Sr.; and two brothers, Mark Randall Way and Deforest Richards Way. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Rhonda Way; son Adam (Lauren) Way of Lexington, SC; daughter Rebecca (Semih) Sendur of Summerville, SC; daughter Katherine (Brandon) Keys of Charleston, SC; seven grandchildren, Emerson Keys, Sadie Way, Isaac Sendur, Eirin Keys, Davis Way, Connor Keys, and Abigail Sendur; two sisters, Cindy Way Blue of Wilmington, NC and Dawn Way of Lexington, SC; brother, John Edward Way, Jr. of Knoxville, Tennessee; and a host of loving nieces and nephews.
The family will receive guests at 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at noon on Saturday July 12, 2025 at Temples-Halloran Funeral Home Chapel, with a private committal to follow at Bush River Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kerry’s honor to The Ezekiel Ministries after school project.
The following obituaries have not been confirmed as describing our classmates.
Sharon Landes Erwin, 79, of Asheville, passed away Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at the CarePartners Solace Center. A native of Buncombe Co., Sharon was a daughter of the late Arthur and Eloise Rogers Landes. Mrs. Erwin graduated from Lee H. Edwards High School and attended UNC-Asheville. She was a teacher at Glen Arden Elementary School, and was a member of Abernethy United Methodist Church. Surviving is her husband of 60 years, Richard Erwin; children, Rick Erwin, Melanie Parham (Jonathan), Chris Erwin (Lori), and David Erwin; 6 grandchildren, Nicholas, Jacob, McKenzie, AnnaLynn, Makenna and Brody; and a brother, Larry A. Landes (Rebekah). Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 24 at 11:00 a.m. in the Patton Avenue Chapel of Groce Funeral Home, with the Rev. Dianne Johnston officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
BOONE — Melinda (Lee) Wallace Fletcher, age 63, of Tampa, FL. passed away Sunday, August 23, 2015 at the home of her sister and brother-in-law, Emily and Gary Childers of Boone, NC. Melinda grew up in Mount Airy, NC and lived for a short time in Stanley, N.C. before moving to Tampa, FL. In Tampa she worked with Federal Express for several years then went back to school and earned a pharmacy technician degree. Follow the receipt of her degree she was employed by the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa from where she retired as a Pharmacy Technician. She was known and loved for her many wonderful qualities. Some of those were her pervasive and unique sense of humor, quick wit, love of all people, and a deep abiding affection and loving care for animals. She had a very gentle, kind soul and would help anyone she could in any way she could. Her interests were varied with the following topping the list; a special love for working outdoors, listening to good music, and taking care of the elderly in her neighborhood. She was also very active in the Girl Scouts through her high school years and remained a life long supporter of that organization. She was preceded in death by her parents, William H. and Ruby Lee Dellinger Wallace, Sr., and a brother, William H. Wallace, Jr. In addition to her sister and brother-in-law, she is survived by her partner and soul mate of 26 years, Jackie Bass of Tampa, Fl.; a niece, Carrie Childers and her son Kai Godwin; and a nephew, Matthew Childers, his wife Kaleen, and their son, Dean of Medfield, Mass. A celebration of life service was conducted Wednesday, August 26, 2015 at 4 p.m. in the Austin & Barnes Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Luke Edwards of Boone United Methodist Church will be officiating the ceremony. Online condolences may be shared with the Fletcher family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to The Humane Society of Tampa Bay at humanesocietytampa.org/ or the Watauga Humane Society at www.wataugahumanesociety.org/. Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Fletcher family.
David Hurd February 22, 1953- May 16, 2024
SURGOINSVILLE - David Hurd passed away on May 16, 2024, at Holston Valley Hospital and Medical Center.
He is survived by his wife Debbie; daughters Katie Thurman (Rob) and Kimberly Hale (Matt); son Lucas Hurd; grandchildren Anna Thurman, Lydia Thurman, and Bennett Thurman; brother Danny Hurd and sister Terry Hurd.
There will be no services.
Memorial contributions can be made to Bays Mountain Park Association, P.O. Box 3388 Kingsport, TN 37664, or to https://www.friendsofbays.org/.
To leave an online message for the Hurd family, or to view the obituary, please visit us at www.johnsonarrowood.com.
Johnson-Arrowood Funeral Home of Church Hill is honored to serve the Hurd family.
Randy McIntosh
James Randall McIntosh, age 69 of Burnsville, went Home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 30th, 2022. A native of Yancey County, he was the son of the late James and Louetta McIntosh, and stepson of the late Bill Harris.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Cynthia McIntosh; sons: Joseph Daniel McIntosh, and Matthew Scott McIntosh; daughter, Ashley Nicole McIntosh; uncle, Danny Randolph; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Anita Gayle (Pete) McKinney, Pamela (Joey) King; nephews and nieces: Brinton (Ayla) McKinney, Lucas (Lauren) King, Nyssa (Shelby) Silver, Hali (Heath) Smoak; as well as great nieces and nephews: Holt, Lane, Cade, Tate, and Bexley.
Randy was an employee and manager of the Nu-Wray Inn for 16 years. Randy loved serving the people of Yancey County and developed lasting relationships with clients and their families. After 24 years of service to Yancey County DSS, Randy retired to sit in his rocking chair on the front porch. He loved going to church at Celo UMC, going to concerts, listening to music, but most of all, telling tales about the good ole days.
Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home on Friday, September 2nd, 2022. The family will receive friends and loved ones two hours prior to the service for visitation. Reverend Warren Lunsford will officiate. Burial will be held the following day on Saturday, September 3rd, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. in the Cane River Baptist Church Cemetery in Burnsville.
Special thanks to Pete and Gayle McKinney as well as Compassionate Care of WNC for the loving care they provided to Randy and the family.
Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home is respectfully serving the McIntosh family.
Herbert Ray Roberson, III, affectionately known as Herb or Gator, passed away on June 2, 2025, at Mission Hospital in Buncombe County, North Carolina.
Born on April 20, 1953, Herb spent his early years in Buncombe County. Herb was a graduate of Enka High School Class of 1971; he proudly played the trumpet all four years in the marching band. He would later forge a distinguished career as a firefighter. His journey began at the Biltmore Forest Fire Department and culminated with his retirement from the Asheville City Fire Department, leaving behind a legacy marked by dedication and courage.
Herb was a man of many passions. Known for his animated personality, he brought joy to those around him. He had a deep love for collecting fire department memorabilia and classic trains, which reflected both his respect for history and his continuous quest for knowledge. As a committed educator, he taught at several local community colleges, inspiring and guiding the next generation of firefighters. His colleagues often referred to him as the "rope-master," a testament to his expertise and leadership within the firefighting community.
Beyond his professional life, Herb was a wonderful cook, known for sharing delicious meals with friends and family, including his Liberty Baptist Church family, where he and his late wife Jan were members.
Herb's family was the center of his universe. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Amanda Roberson Hannah, and her husband, Shane Hannah. His grandchildren—Kynley Ray, Keri Hannah, Myles Hannah, Zayne and Soyeur Menser, Brodie and Fable Barker, and Olive Russell—were a source of immense pride and joy for him. Additionally, cherished special family members Tammy, Megan Russell, and Crystal Menser.
Herb was reunited in Heaven with his wife, Janice "Jan" Echerd Roberson; his parents, Herbert Ray Roberson Jr. and Julia Roberson; and his daughter, Rebecca "Becky" Lynn Roberson. Each of these lost loved ones held a special place in his heart, and their memories continue to echo into the lives of those who knew and loved him.
As we remember Herbert Ray Roberson, III, we celebrate not only his remarkable achievements but also the profound love he had for his family and his unwavering commitment to his community. His legacy will be carried forth by those he touched and inspired throughout his life.
The care of Herb Roberson has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Candler, NC.