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Rev. James A. Sanders

In addition to his wife, he is survived by four sons, Ernie Sanders and his wife Nellie, Ralph and his wife Thelma, Billy and his wife Joyce, and Joel and his wife Carolyn all of Franklin, NC; four step-daughters, Glenda Blackwell , Barbara Talley and Gail Bennett all of Otto, NC and Patricia Ramey of Rabun Gap, GA; three grandsons, Steve, Victor, and Vance Sanders. Sixteen great-grandchildren and one great- great grandchild also survive him. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Mamie and Frenchie Ledford; three brothers, Marion, Richard, and Lloyd Sanders; two half brothers Claude Beeco, and Betix Beeco and one grandson Darren Sanders.

Special thanks to care givers Phyllis Dale, and Anna Belle Houston.

Funeral services will be Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 2:00 PM in the Prentiss Church of God with the Revs. Don Moffitt, David Powell, and Tim Hayes officiating. Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Vic Sanders, Vance Sanders, Steve Sanders, Steve Sanders Jr., Garry Green, Gary Owens, and Daniel Sanders.

The family will receive friends Wed. November 18, 2009 at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, from 6:00 -8:00 PM, where the body will remain until placed in Church thirty minutes prior to service. Memorials may be made in memory of Rev. Sanders to the Prentiss Church of God Building Fund, PO Box 1713,Franklin, NC 28744.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

James Dee Sanders

Franklin, NC - James Dee Sanders, age 84, of Franklin, NC, passed away Thursday, August 21, 2008 at the VA Medical Center in Asheville, NC. He was born in Macon County on January 9, 1924, the son of the late Claude and Leona Tippett Sanders. He was a Veteran of WWII, serving at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO and with his U.S. Army Engineer Brigade in Bombay, India; Tehran, Iran, and in Northern Russia. He was a lifetime member of VFW Post #7339 and served for many years on the Military Funeral and Honor Guard Detail, and was retired from Franklin Grading Company.

He is survived by one sister, Thelma Hogsed and husband, Jim of Canton, OH; brothers, Bill and wife, Norma of Little Rock, AK; Leonard C. and wife Maxine; John J. and wife, Virginia of Franklin, NC and Charles and wife, Gwen of Sylva, NC. Special family, Mattie, Jimmie, Patty, Missie Johnson, Wanda Dillard, Jackie Ernst and Mike Johnson. He is preceded in death by a brother, Ronald R. Sanders.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 23 at 11:00 AM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with Rev. Tommy Fouts officiating. Burial will be held at Ridgecrest Baptist Church Cemetery. The VFW Post #7339 and American Legion Post #108 will conduct full military graveside honors.

The family will receive friends Saturday, August 23 from 10:00-11:00 AM, one hour prior to service at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ridgecrest Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 205 Ridgecrest Church Road, Franklin, NC 28734.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Martha Waldroop Sanders

Franklin - Martha Waldroop Sanders, 51, of Whispering Meadows Rd., Franklin, died Saturday, July 11, 2009 in MemorialMissionHospital, Asheville. Born in Franklin, N.C., February 28, 1958, she was the daughter of George Bob Waldroop and Cora Mae MacMurray. She loved gardening, canning, cooking and reading and was an avid race car fan. She was a homemaker and member of Prentiss Baptist Church.

She is survived by her loving husband of 24 years, Bruce Sanders; her parents, George Bob Waldroop and Cora Mae MacMurray of Franklin; two brothers, Mike and Dan Waldroop of Franklin; one sister, Joyce Simonds of BrysonCity. Several nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Tom Waldroop and Jeffrey MacMurray and step-father, Bruce MacMurray

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, July 14, 2009 in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home at 2:00 PM with the Rev. Eddie Stillwell officiating.

The family will receive friends Monday, July 13 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Christopher Waldroop, Allen Waldroop, Brent Holbrook, Scottie and Brian Henry, Brian Moffitt and Chuck Brooks.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Mattie Sanders

Franklin - Mattie Marie Penland Hall Sanders 83 of Franklin, NC died Saturday April 5, 2008 at her residence. She was a native of Macon County the daughter of the late Lewis E. Penland and Heland Bell Angel but was raised by her grand parents Ham and Mary Cochran Penland. She was married 1st to the late Alvernon Hall 2nd William A. Sanders of Franklin, NC. She was a house keeper for several area families. She was a faithful member of Bethlehem Baptist Church now known as New Bethel Baptist Church. She was active in church affairs.

She is survived in addition to her husband by two daughters Billie Ruth Sanders and Mary Boston both of Franklin, one son George Richard Hall and his wife Peggy of Franklin, NC, one brother Lewis Penland Jr. of Atlanta, GA, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister Mildred Adams.

Funeral services will be Thursday April 10, 2008 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with the Revs. Frank Blont and Eugene Waters officiating Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 PM Wednesday April 9, 2008 at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home. In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made to New Bethel Baptist Church Lake Emory Road Franklin, NC.

An online register is available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Virgie Mae Sanders

Franklin, NC - Virgie Mae Sanders, age 76, of Sab Road, Franklin, NC passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at a local nursing home. She was a lifelong resident of Macon County, the daughter of the late George and Bell Patton Bingham. She was married to John H. Sanders who passed away in 1983. She retired from Belden Electrical Cord Company with 18 years of service. She was of the Baptist faith and enjoyed quilting and growing flowers.

She is survived by her two daughters, Susie "Pam" Baker and Linda Ammons and her husband, Ronnie of Franklin, NC; two sons, Roger Sanders and Jerry Sanders and his wife, Donna of Franklin, NC. Nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren also survive. She was preceded in death by two sons, James Sanders and Bob Sanders and one sister, Mary Lee Moses.

Funeral services will be held Friday, February 13 at 3:30 PM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with Rev. Guy Duvall, Rev. Tommy Fouts and Rev. Andy Cloer officiating. Burial will be held in the Patton United Methodist Church Cemetery. Tommy Sanders, Mitchell Sanders, Stephen Sanders, Rodney Stanley, Kyle Stanley and David Moses will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends Thursday, February 12 from 7:00-9:00 PM at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Angel Home Health & Hospice, 170 Church Street, Franklin, NC 28734 or Oakdale Baptist Church Building Fund, c/o Linda Higdon, 5650 Upper Burningtown Road, Franklin, NC 28734.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Victoria Holland Sanders

Franklin, NC - Victoria “Vicki” Holland Sanders of Franklin went home to be with the Lord November 2, 2009. She was a born in Haywood Co., the daughter of Boyd Holland of Maggie Valley, NC and Lois Messer Holland of Franklin, NC. She was a devout Christian, loving mother and grandmother. She was a homemaker and her passion was collecting dolls. She was a member of the First Assembly of God Church.

In addition to her parents she is survived by two sons, Philip Sanders and his wife, Jill of Chattanooga, TN and Josh Shelton of Franklin, NC; two brothers, Kelly Holland of Raleigh, NC and Darrell Holland of Waynesville, NC; one granddaughter, Hope Victoria Sanders.

Memorial services will be held Friday, November 6 at 11:00 AM at the First Assembly of God Church with Rev. Mike Barres and Rev. J.D. Grant officiating. The family will receive friends after the service at the Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pulmonary Hypertension Foundation, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Paul Schlatter

Franklin, NC - Paul Schlatter, 71, of Pannell Lane, Franklin, passed away Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at a Harris Regional Hospital, Sylva. He was born in Buffalo, NY, the son of the late Carl and Averil Kruse Schlatter.

He is survived by his wife, Susan, and mother-in-law, Ruth Struble, his "Village", Jean and Charlie Pinkston, Christi, Elijah and JD Huff, Myra Cook and Mark Whitman, and his "Best Cook", and wonderful friend, Betty Reynolds, all of Franklin; five daughters, Deb Klink and her husband, Ray of Machias, NY, Sue Gates of Crosby, PA, Lori Youngs of Williamsville, NY, Jill Neubauer of Phoenix, AZ, and Kerry Kuhn of Buffalo, NY; thirteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Paul was employed by Lowes of Franklin from 1998 till his retirement in 2007. He worked in the garden department, in appliance delivery and made many friends in the hardware department before his retirement.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of cremation. A celebration of Paul’s life will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be made to The Hospice Foundation, 170 Church Street, Franklin, NC 28734.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Mary Hayes Schultz

She is survived by three sons, Michael Schultz and wife Denise of Oviedo, FL, Roderick Schultz of Bryson City, NC and Erick Schultz and wife Ruth of Livermore, CA; one brother, Benjamin Kincaid of St. Petersburg, FL; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren also survive.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, December 20th at 1:00pm in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, with Rev. Roy Burnett officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to March of Dimes, 1275 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, NY 10605.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Martha Ann Roten Schultheis

Franklin - Martha Ann Roten Schultheis, age 75, a native of Macon County passed away on April 23, 2010 at her home in Toccoa, GA.

Martha was born on February 22, 1935 and was the daughter of the late Elmer and Edna Holbrook Roten. She was preceded in death by her sisters Maxine McClure and Jane Ledford.

She is survived by three sons, Gary Schultheis and wife Jeanne of Martin, GA; Steve Schultheis and wife Darlene of Franklin, NC and Chris Schultheis and wife Sheri of Athen, GA. She is also survived by two grandchildren Heidi Fraser and Jerry Schultheis.

Martha was from a family of nine siblings. There are four surviving sisters, Patsy Henderson and husband Sam of Franklin, Kathyrn Cruse of Franklin, Mary Sue Murray of Hendersonville, Linda Griffin of Athens, GA; two brothers Bill Roten and wife Diane of Franklin and Tommy Roten also of Franklin.

She was a former employee of Angel Community Hospital and the Stephens County, GA hospital where she served as the Medical Records director. She enjoyed family gatherings, genealogy, gardening and was an avid reader. She was a member of Franklin United Methodist Church.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 26 AT 2:00PM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with Dr. John Fowler officiating. Burial will be held at the Woodlawn Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Sunday, April 25 from 6:00-8:00PM at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Urban Ronald Joseph Schutz

Highlands, NC - Urban Ronald Joseph Schutz, age 92, of Big Pine Lane, Highlands, NC passed away Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. He was born in Jasper, IN, the son of the late Frank X and Josephine Tretter Schutz. He was married to Joelene McRae Schutz who passed away in 1997. He was retired from Delta Airlines and was a member of Our Lady of The Mountains Catholic Church.

He is survived by his daughter, Debra Lee Harkins and her husband, John J. Harkins of Beaufort, SC; two grandchildren, Nicole and Shawn Harkins.

Funeral mass will be held Wednesday, June 24 at 10:00AM at Our Lady of The Mountains Catholic Church with Father Dean officiating. Burial will be held at Oconnee Memorial Park in Seneca, SC. The family will receive friends after the service.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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James Nelson Scott

Highlands - James Nelson Scott passed away early Thursday morning, February 18, 2010 at his home on 608 Hickory Street, Highlands, NC after an extended illness.

Jim was born in New Castle Indiana on December 5th, 1926 and grew up there before moving to Indianapolis after serving in the army and marrying his first wife Mary Louise Knight. He continued to work for Herff-Jones, selling class rings and caps and gowns, moving to Gainesville, Florida in the late 1950’s where he continued a successful career in sales covering most all of the state of Florida schools. He decided to move his family to Highlands, NC in the early 1970’s and make a career change which included a real estate business with partner Earl Heard, the founding of Insurance Services, and an antique shop, Log Cabin Antiques, all of Highlands. After the death of his first wife Louise and retiring, he moved back to New Castle where he married Anna Margaret Antle. After fulfilling his life long dream of restoring and owning a large older home and farm, he moved to Naples, Florida, where he played bridge, golfed and socialized with friends at Forest Lakes community and Quail Run Golf Course and County Club.He continued to spend his summers in Highlands, golfing at Highlands Country Club, of which he was a founding member and playing bridge, as he was an accomplished player.

In addition to his parents, Lewis and Anna Belle and his wives, Louise and Margaret, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Myla Edwards and Joyce Leraas, and one brother Mervyn Scott. He is survived by one brother, Donald Scott of New Castle, Indiana and four children, sons Lance Kevin Scott and wife Pam Smith Scott of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, Michael Kim Scott and wife Brenda of Gainesville, Florida and two daughters, Leesa Lynn Crisp and husband Chuck of Cumming, Georgia and Karin Ann Potts and husband Terry of Highlands, North Carolina, as well as twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, February 21 at 3:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church of Highlands with Dr. Don Mullens, with family receiving friends one hour prior between 2:00 and 3:00 at Coleman Hall in the church, burial will be held at Highlands Memorial Park immediately following the service. Christopher Potts, Eric Fielding, Justin Chapman, Josh Martin, Brooks Scott and Leigh Scott will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Highlands-Cashiers Hospice or the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, P.O. Box 190, Highlands, NC 28741.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Alfred Freeman Scruggs

Franklin, NC - Alfred Freeman Scruggs, age 76, of Oakdale Drive, Franklin, NC passed away Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at his residence. He was a native and lifelong resident of Macon County, the son of the late Rev. Charlie and Geneva Hall Scruggs. He worked for the U.S. Forest Service and was of the Baptist faith.

He is survived by his former wife, Ora Sue Thomas Scruggs; two daughters, Janet Scruggs Gentry and her companion, Donald Leonard of Franklin, NC and Susie Scruggs Bryson of Franklin, NC; two sons, Darin T. Scruggs and his wife, Jessica and Alfred M. Scruggs all of Franklin, NC. Ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren also survive. He was preceded in death by his step-mother, Ella Addington Scruggs, a sister, Margaret Bynum, five brothers, Charles Scruggs, Willie Scruggs, Lee Scruggs, Emory Scruggs, and Andrew Angel.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, June 29 at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home. Burial will be held at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Levar Bryson, Larry Bryson, George Burgess, Michael Chavis, Willis Chavis and Greg Hall will serve as pallbearerss.

The family will receive friends Sunday from 1:00-2:00PM, one hour prior to the service at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Nelle Hazel Massey Seabock

She is survived by one daughter, Gail Seabock Barrett and her husband George of Franklin, NC, one son, Wayne Seabock and his wife Millie of Westchester, PN; a granddaughter, Janelle Seabock; three step-grandchildren and four step- great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one granddaughter, Carla Rene; one sister, Juanita Ogle, and two brothers Cloyce, and Jesse Lee Massey.

Funeral services will be 2:30 PM, Tuesday, December 2, 2008 in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with the Rev. Bob Abel officiating. Pallbearers will be John Barrett, Lynn and Adrian Seabock, Patrick McGinnis, Charles Shuler and Ray Sanders. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:30-2:30PM, one hour prior to the services.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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Tommy Dennis Seagle

Signal Mtn., TN and Franklin, NC - Tommy Dennis Seagle, age 60, of Signal Mtn., TN formerly of Franklin, NC passed away Tuesday, August 25 at Signal Mtn. He was a native of Macon County, NC the son of the late Samuel and Katherine Conley Seagle. He was a system analyst for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Tennessee. Dennis was a 1967 graduate of Franklin High School and a 1971 graduate of Western Carolina University. He enjoyed gardening, boating and was an avid snow skier. He never met a stranger and loved everyone. He was a member of Newman Chapel Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his son, Darren Shane Seagle and a sister, Shelby Jean Ridgeway.

He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Connie Berry Seagle; mother-in-law, Shirley Berry and the late Herman Berry, sister-in-law, Diane Berry Shavender and her husband, Bill,brother-in-law, Herman Berry Jr & Nancy all of Washington, NC; three sisters, Barbara Pederson and husband Len of Bowie MD, Alice Ditch and the late Jerry Ditch of Otto, NC, Dorothy Monteith and her husband Erskine of Otto, NC; two brothers, Sammy Seagle and his wife, Betty of Otto, NC and Dr. Eddie Dean Seagle of Tifton, GA. Six nieces and nephews, five great nieces and nephews and many friends also survive.

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 28 at 1:00 PM at Newman Chapel Baptist Church with Rev. Alton Dendy, Rev. Danny Cannon and Pastor Phillip Jethro officiating. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Scott Monteith, Brian Ditch, Brad Seagle, Dan Gray, Tommy Dorough and Jim Myer will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends Thursday, August 27 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the Church thirty minutes prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Newman Chapel Baptist Church, 60 Mulberry Road, Otto, NC 28763 or to the Alligood Church of God, 1891 Mill Hole Road, Washington, NC 27889.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

James Carlton “Pete” Setser

Murphy - James Carlton “Pete” Setser, 74, of Murphy died Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 at his residence. A native of Macon County, he had lived in Cherokee County for the past 54 years. He was the son of the late Andrew Bryan and Estelle Justice Setser. Pete had served in the United States Army. He had worked as a personnel manager for Peachtree Products and worked as the veteran’s representative for the NC Employment Security Commission, where he retired in 1996. He continued to pursue his true passion of raising cattle and horses. He was a member of the Peachtree Memorial Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Andy and John L. Setser; a sister, Lucille Setser Allen; and an infant granddaughter, Samantha Setser.

Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Geneva Barnett Setser; a daughter, Jeanie Setser Morgan and husband, Russell of Blounts Creek, NC; a son, Jimmy Setser and wife, Renee’ of Murphy; three sisters, Nancy Setser Bulgin and husband, Randolph and Carolyn Setser McCall and husband, Bob all of Franklin, and Pat Setser Wilson and husband, Josh of Belton, SC; a brother, Fred “Bo” Setser and wife, Jimmie of Franklin; and a granddaughter, Hannah Setser.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Thursday, Dec. 4 in the Peachtree Memorial Baptist Church with Dr. Chester Jones officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be in Dr. Greg Cranford, Buck Chambers, Glenn Carson, Keith Holcomb, Brian and Joe Kilpatrick, Max O’Dell, and Daryl Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Harold and Greg Moore, Jim Hendrix, Danny Rich, Jeff and Bill Yonce, Jack Wimpey, Danny Logan, J.C. and Joe Owenby, Doyle Clay, Nathan Allen, and Allen Chambers.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 Wednesday evening at the Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy where the body will be until placed in the church 30 minutes prior to the services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of James Carlton “Pete” Setser to the Peachtree Memorial Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Jim Hendrix, 3195 Old Peachtree Road, Murphy, NC 28906 or Gideons International, PO Box 164, Murphy, NC 28906.

Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy in charge of all arrangements.

Compliments of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home

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Mary Ellen Setser

Franklin, NC - Mary Ellen Setser, age 81, of Cartoogechaye Community passed away Thursday, February 7, 2008 at Memorial Mission Hospital. She was a native of Macon County, the daughter of the late Gilmer J. and Nina Ray Setser. She was a registered nurse with 49 years of service, serving in several areas of Medical Facilities. She was a 1951 graduate of Memorial Mission School of Nursing. She attended Cartoogechaye Baptist Church.

She is survived by five sisters, Agnes Hunton of Greenwood, SC, Grace Harrison and husband, Wayne of Franklin, NC, Jean Wilson and husband, Jim of Waycross, GA, Anna House and husband, Aubrey of Lake Ranch, FL and Helen Gent and husband, Jim of Old Bridge, NJ; two brothers, Edwin Setser and wife, Una of Franklin, NC and Richard F. Setser and wife, Faye of Valdosta, GA. Several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 12 at 2:00 PM at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with Rev. Steve Reeves and Rev. Jim Gent officiating. Burial will be at Mt. Zion Cemetery. Nephews and great-nephews will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, February 12 from 1:00-2:00 PM, one hour prior to service at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Zion Cemetery Fund, c/o Marcia Crawford, 175 Wayah View Drive, Franklin, NC 28734.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences can be made www.MeM.com or www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com

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Joseph Reid Sellers

Joseph Reid Sellers 75, of Franklin, NC, went to be with the Lord Friday, May 30, 2008 at his residence. He was a native of Macon County, NC, the son of the late Samuel V. and Gladys Waldroop Sellers. He was a veteran of the U. S. Air Force. He was owner of Sellers Electric and in later years owned and operated Joe Sellers Realty. He loved doing special things for his family, gardening, and an overall handyman. He was a member of the Bethel United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife of fifty years Nancy Norris Sellers of Franklin, NC, one daughter Sheila Ledford and her husband Alan B. of Franklin, one Son Johnny Reid Sellers of Atlanta, GA, two sisters Edith Welch of Phil Campbell, AL, and Katherine Curtis of Valdosta, GA., one brother Bill Sellers and his wife Jodie, of Franklin, one grandson Zachery Elijah Ledford.

Funeral services will be Sunday June 1, 2008 at 3:00 PM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home in Franklin, NC with the Rev. Al Beck officiating. Pallbearers will be Bruce Elliott, Ed Fitzgerald, Larry Norris, Zachery Ledford, Brian and Steve Sellers, Chris Norris, and Jack Owens. The family will receive friends from two until three PM Sunday June 1, 2008 at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund or to the Family Life Center 81 Bethel Church Road Franklin, NC 28734.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Jayne Margaret Schaffer

Cashiers, NC - Jayne Margaret Schaffer, age 88, of Cashiers, NC, passed away Sunday, June 29, 2008 at her residence. Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Rosella Lucille McGraw Sergi

Highlands, NC - Rosella Lucille McGraw Sergi, age 80, of Highlands, NC passed away Saturday, September 29, 2007 at a Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. Mrs. Sergi was born in Lewis County, Kentucky the daughter of the late Willard and Rosa Valley Reynolds McGraw. Married to James Patrick Sergi who passed away August 9, 1974. Mrs. Sergi was a retired sales clerk for K & B Drugstore in New Orleans. Lucille was a member of Liberty Baptist Church in Cowee Valley, NC where she was a former Sunday School Teacher and was a member of the Women’s Group.

She is survived by two daughters, Gina Cantell (Bill) of Auburn AL and Mary Jo Kelley (Mike) of Cypress, TX; a son, James Michael Sergi (Julia) of Freeport, NY; eight grandchildren, Michael Sergi, Nicholas Sergi, Melinda Sergi, Lara Sergi, Carl Gatti, Melissa Gatti, Crane Cantrell and Rosa Cantrell.

Memorial services will be held Sunday, August 2, 2009 at 2:00 PM at Liberty Baptist Church with Rev. Charles Stevens officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00PM, one hour prior to service at the Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Liberty Baptist Church, c/o Pauline Freeman, 89 Matlock Road, Franklin, NC 28734

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Frances Marie Shepherd

Franklin, NC - Frances Marie Shepherd, age 78, of Snow Hill Road, Franklin, NC, passed away Sunday, November 15, 2009 in a local hospital. She was a native of Macon County, the daughter of the late William Lawrence Shepherd and Hattie Rhinehart Shepherd. She retired from Burlington Industries. She was a member of Snow Hill United Methodist Church and a member of the Women’s Democratic Party.

She is survived by her sister, Ann Shepherd of Franklin, NC and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Helen Gibson and Nola Blanton and a brother, Wallace Shepherd.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 18th at 2:00pm at Snow Hill United Methodist Church, with Rev. Charles Stephens, Rev. Donna Cobb and Rev. Marlin Keener officiating. Burial will be at Shepherd Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jeff Tallent, Tony Collins, Jerry Shepherd, Ricky Stoudemire, Jake "Billy" Collins and Bob Collins. Other nephews will serve as honorary pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00pm, Tuesday, November 17th at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, where the body will remain until placed in the Church thirty minutes prior to the service.

Memorials may be made to Snow Hill United Methodist Church Building Fund, c/o Faye Sheffield, 1845 Sanderstown Road, Franklin, NC 28734, or to Shepherd Cemetery, PO Box 781, Franklin, NC 28744.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Joseph Stephen Shepherd

Franklin, NC - Joseph Stephen Shepherd, age 71, of Fred Dalton Road, Franklin, NC passed away Monday, November 17, 2008 at his residence. He was a native of Macon County, the son of the late Garland and Hazel Dalton Shepherd. He worked in construction and farming. He loved bluegrass music, dancing and going to Picking on the Square. He was of the Baptist faith.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Annie Lois Kirkland Shepherd; two step-daughters, Carolyn Morgan of Tawas, Michigan and Donna Shears of Franklin, NC; one son William Stephen Shepherd of Franklin, NC; four step-sons, Roger McMahan and his wife Sandra, David McMahan, James McMahan and Jeff McMahan all of Franklin; one sister, Ruth Poe of Longwood, FL and one brother, George Shepherd of Cleveland, GA. Thirty-seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren also survive.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 20, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with Rev. Judson Hall and Rev. David Williamas officiating. Burial will be held at the Shepherd Cemetery. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends Thursday, November 20 from 1:00-2:00 PM, one hour prior to service at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Johnnie Bell Shook

Franklin, NC - Johnnie Bell Shook, age 76, of Guy Knob Road, Franklin, NC, passed away Wednesday, November 26, 2008 in a local hospital. She was a native of Puckett, Mississippi, the daughter of the late Dee and Lucille Walters McLaurin. She was married to the late John Melvin Shook. She was a US Air Force Veteran and had worked for the Mississippi State Retirement Division. She was a portrait artist, amilitary nurse and an engineer. She was of the Methodist faith.

She is survived by one daughter, Barbara Sue (Susie) Williams and her husband Charles of Franklin, NC; one son, John Michael (Mike) Shook of Petal, Mississippi; a companion, Dennis Batts; one sister, Betty Sue James, of Florence, Mississippi; two brothers, William McLaurin and Samuel Hugh McLaurin both of Raleigh, NC; five grandchildren, Albert Wayne Hester, II, Amantha (Amy) Putman, Kelly McLaurin Shook, Morgan Shook, and Nickie Shook. She was preceded in death by a sister, Mildred Grace Wade.

Memorial services will be held at a later date in Johns, Mississippi.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Aaron Keith Shope

Franklin, NC - Aaron Keith Shope, age 61, of Franklin, NC, passed away Wednesday, April 14, 2010 in a local hospital. He was born in Rabun County, GA, but had lived in Macon County all his life. He was the son of Dorothy Holden Shope of Franklin, NC and the late Edwin Woodrow Shope. He was a construction worker and part owner of the former S & S Auto Parts. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and loved motorcycle riding. He was a faithful member of Clarks Chapel United Methodist Church, and had done several missions. He was a Trustee, a Minister of Construction and a Committee Member. Laughter was part of his life. He was a US Army Veteran, having served in Vietnam in 1968-1969. He received the Bronze Star and was a Purple Heart recipient. He was a charter member of VVA Chapter #994, a member of Franklin VFW Post #7339 and American Legion Post #108. He was Vice President of the VVA. He had received the Linwood Lang Veterans Service Award.

In addition to his mother he is survived by his wife of 38 years, Gail Cabe Shope, two sisters, Ruth Dowdle and husband Ronnie, of Otto, NC and Lynn Nicholson and husband Tommy of Franklin, NC; a brother, Wade Shope and wife Carolyn of Franklin, NC. A number of nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by a half sister, Betty Jo Nichols.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 17th at 11:00 am at Clarks Chapel United Methodist Church, with Rev. Al Beck and Rev. Dick Richards officiating. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Members of VVA Chapter #994 will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Daylon Plemens, Brenda Garner, and Ronnie Beale. The remainder of VVA members will also serve as honorary pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Friday evening at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, where the body will remain until placed in the Church thirty minutes prior to the service.

Memorials may be made to Clarks Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Jean Sutton, 1999 Clarks Chapel Road, Franklin, NC 28734 or to Vietnam Veterans Chapter #994, PO Box 2327, Franklin, NC 28744.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Wylie "Judd" Jess Shope

Franklin, NC - Wylie "Judd" Jess Shope, age 87, of Fox Hollow Circle, Otto, NC, passed away Wednesday, February 10, 2010 in a local nursing home. He was a native of Macon County, the son of the late Alec and Julie Mashburn Shope. He was a construction worker. He was a US Army Veteran serving during World War II. He received six Bronze Stars and walked with General Patton. He was also a member of the VFW.

He is survived by a son, David Shope and wife Marty of Charlotte, NC; two sisters, Betty Brown of Franklin, NC and Ruth Holbrooks of Highpoint, NC. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Marie Crawford and Madge Dowdle and three brothers, Nels Shope, J. D. Shope and Frank Shope.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, February 13th at 2:00pm at Rush Cemetery, with Rev. Davis Hooper officiating.

The family will receive friends from 12:30pm till 1:30pm, prior to the service at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Ruth Ellen Shuebrook

Franklin - Ruth Ellen (Nowling) Shuebrook, 85, of Franklin, N.C., passed away into Peace on Friday, February 15, 2008, after a long illness. Born on Sept. 26, 1922, in Philadelphia, Pa., she was the oldest daughter of Leora Livezey and William C. Nowling. After high school, she enjoyed a more than 40-year career as a secretary and administrative assistant for a number of companies, including A.I. DuPont and the State of Florida. After retirement, she also worked in real estate and retail positions. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Franklin. Her volunteer work included contributions to various Church-related activities and at the Angel Medical Center. She was pre-deceased by her dear husband, George Albert Shuebrook, and by her Mother and two Sisters, Leora Dorothy Vessey and Evelyn Elder, all of Pennsylvania.

She is survived by three sons: Ronald L. Shuebrook and wife, Fran, of Guelph, Ontario; Kent A. Shuebrook and wife, Janice, of Tom’s River, N.J., and Geoffery A. Shuebrook of San Jose, Calif.; four grandchildren: Paul Shuebrook and wife Melanie of Toronto, Ont., Meghan Shuebrook of Guelph, Ont., Amanda Shuebrook of Tom’s River, N.J., and Sasha Shuebrook of San Diego, Calif.. She is also sadly missed by her great-granddaughter, Keida E. McMurtry –Shuebrook of Guelph, Ont. A Memorial Service will be held at the First Baptist Church of Franklin at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008, Rev. Harold Ball, Pastor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Elevator Fund, c/o the First Baptist Church, 69 Iotla St., Franklin, N.C. 28734. For further information or inquiries, please contact: Ron & Fran Shuebrook, 519-766-4744 or gallagher.shuebrook@rogers.com

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

An online obituary is available by visiting www.MeM.com or www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com.

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Debra Jeanne Siegfried

Franklin, NC - Debra Jeanne Siegfried, age 58, of Louisa Chapel Road, Franklin, NC, passed away Monday, April 19, 2010 in a local hospital. She was a native of Wind Gap, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Lorraine Lerch Davies and the late Leo Davies. She was a cashier at Walmart for ten years, and was a member of Gem and Mineral Society. She was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

She is survived by her husband of 37 years, Bruce Siegfried; two daughters, Elizabeth Siegfried of the home, and Lisa Mendoza, and her husband Ryan of Seattle, Washington; six sisters, Doris Davies, Barbara Marlatt, Alice Morris, Jacquelyn Evans, Frances Hill, and Gertrude Hennion all of Pennsylvania. one granddaughter, Ryli Mendoza also survives.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 24th at 2:00pm at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 564 Prentiss Bridge Road, Franklin, NC, with Jerome Schott, Jr. officiating.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Shelia Ann Simonds

Gastonia - Shelia Ann Simonds, age 51, of Gastonia, NC passed away Sunday, May 31, 2009 at her residence. She was a native of Knox County, TN, the daughter of the late Clyde J. Simonds and Eunavia Daily Simonds formerly of Franklin, NC..

She is survived by her son, Tony Lynn Simonds and wife Tina of Gastonia; her daughter, Tonya G. Helms and husband, Grady of Lincolnton; her brother, Jerry “Berlin” Simonds and wife Sandra of Gastonia; sisters, Joyce White and Rev. Ronnie White of Strawberry Plains, TN and Juanita G. Costner of Gastonia; her special companion, Allen “Woody” Jones; five grandchildren, Justin, Michael, Casey, Ashley, and Harley; nieces and nephews, Tosha, Hillary, Aaron, Jason, Casey, Robert, Tiffany, Charlotte, and Butch. She was preceded in death by, Granny Ann, Candy, Russell, and Sheila’s husband, Spider.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 3 at 2:00 PM at Living Hope Baptist Church. The family will receive friends Tuesday, June 2 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Living Hope Baptist Church. Burial will be at Armstrong Cemetery.

Courtesy of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

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Myrtle Leah Slagle

Franklin, NC - Myrtle Leah Slagle, 84, went to be with her Lord, Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008. She was a native of Swain County, the daughter of the late Harvey M. Wiggins and Minnie S. Whiteside Wiggins. She was married to the late Forest P. Slagle. She was a homemaker, she loved gardening and beautiful flowers. She was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church.

She is survived by one daughter, Frances Slagle DeWitt and her husband, Nolan of Franklin, NC; one son, Ronald Paul Slagle and his wife Amy of Franklin, NC; three sisters, Doris Carson of Bryson City, NC, Louise Maney of Brevard, NC and Janice Tucker of Hickory, NC; one grandson, Alex Slagle also survives. She was preceded in death by four sisters, and four brothers.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Sept. 16th at 3:00pm in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, with Rev Harold Ball and Rev. Jim Dusek officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. First Baptist Deacons will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00pm Tuesday, one hour piror to the service at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Care Net of Macon County, 130 Bidwell St., Franklin, NC 28734.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Charles Siler Slagle

Franklin, NC - Charles Siler Slagle, age 88, died Monday, February 9, 2009 at his residence in the Cartoogechaye Community. He was a native of Macon County: the son of Carl and Louise Arthur Slagle. He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Nina Rae Waldroop Slagle, and a sister Mary Slagle Southerland. He was a retired dairy and beef cattle farmer.

Mr. Slagle was a graduate of NC State University. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps serving in the Pacific in WWII. After the war he taught in the Veterans Farm Training Program and began his dairy business. In 1964 he became a founding member of the Board of Trustees of Southwestern Community College on which he served until 1994. The board room of the Allied Health Sciences building was dedicated in his honor in 1988. Mr. Slagle served as a Macon County Commissioner briefly in 1974 and from 1978 until 1984. He also served on the Macon County Health Board and NC State Forestry Commission. He was an active member of Mount Zion Methodist Church which later became Memorial United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife of thirty-one years Clydie Oldham Slagle; his son Al Slagle and wife Candace of Franklin NC; his daughter Kathy Tinsley and husband Dan of Franklin, and his daughter Chris Slagle and husband Robert Martin of Black Mountain, NC; two step-daughters; Carlene M. White and husband Luther of Pittsboro, NC; Candace M. Slagle and husband Al Slagle of Franklin, NC; two step-sons, Wayne Meacham and wife Amy of Pittsboro, NC; and, Gary Meacham and wife Cindy of Chapel Hill, NC. He is also survived by his sister, Myra Slagle Waldroop of Franklin, NC, sister-in-law Nell Waldroop Ray of Fletcher, NC, four nieces and nephews and their families, sixteen grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home in Franklin, NC on Saturday, February 14, 2009 at 11:00 am. A visitation with family will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial gifts be made to the Southwestern Community College Foundation, c/o Ms. Sonja Haynes, PO Box 447, Sylva, NC 28779

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Isabell Milligan Wilson Slama

Franklin, NC - Isabell Milligan Wilson Slama, age 90, of Pat Rogers Road, Franklin, NC, passed away Sunday, February 8, 2009 at her residence. She was a native of Providence, Rhode Island, the daughter of the late John R. and Annie Kelso Milligan. She was a homemaker and a member of Franklin First Alliance Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Slama.

She is survived by two daughters, Nan Preston of Franklin, NC, and Mary Phillips of Franklin, NC; one sister, Margaret Baker of Garnarvillo, Iowa; two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Memorial services will be held February 21, 2009 at 2:00pm in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, with Rev. Vic Greene officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00pm, one hour prior to the service at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Angel Hospice General Fund , 170 Church Street, Franklin, NC 28734. or to Samaritan's Purse International Headquarters, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Buford Carl Smith

Franklin, NC - Buford Carl Smith, age 76, of Randy Drive Franklin, NC, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2009 in a local nursing home. He was a native of Orange County, FL, the son of the late Grady Buchanan Smith and Ella Jones Smith. He was a produce manager for Publix, and a cabinet maker. He enjoyed airboats, fishing, deer hunting, and camping.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Martha Marie Borst Smith; a son, Buford Carl Smith, Jr. of Otto, NC; a sister, Louise Richter of Summersville, SC; three grandchildren, Tommy Smith, Timmy Smith, and Kimberly Smith; five great-grandchildren, Dustin, Zachary, Silvahna, Nevada and Cooper. He was preceded in death by a son, Randy Coley Smith, who passed away in 1981, and three brothers, Winfred Smith, Morell Smith and John Smith.

Memorial services will be held Friday, January 23rd at 5:00pm in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, with Johnny Webb and Rev. John Raby officiating.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 until 5:00pm, one hour prior to the service Friday, at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, Memorial Processing Center, PO Box 5216, Glenn Allen, VA 23058-5216.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Genevieve Goodwin Smith

Franklin, NC -Genevieve Goodwin Smith, age 88, of Wolf View Road, Franklin, NC passed away Sunday, May 24, 2009 at a local hospital. She was born in Merrimack Co., N.H., the daughter of the late William E. and Susan Deborah Smith Goodwin. She graduated from Laconia Hospital Nursing School in New Hampshire. She was married to the late Donald George Chapman. She was a nurse for 50 years, did volunteer work for hospice, was a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity Retail Store and had a associate degree in Interior Design. She was an active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church.

She is survived by a son, Donald Curtis Chapman and his wife, Ida of Franklin, NC; one sister, Madeline Folsom of Concord, N.H. One grandchild also survives. She was preceded in death by a brother, William E. Goodwin.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 3:00pm at St. John’s Episcopal Church, with The Reverend Debra H. Rice officiating.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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John Gordon Snow

Franklin, NC - John Gordon Snow, Jr. age 41, of Cardinal Drive, Franklin, died Thursday, February 26, 2009 at his residence. He was born in Beverly, MA, the son of John G. Snow, Sr and Carol A. Rossi Snow of Beverly, MA. John was a native of Massachusetts, but found the greatest happiness he had ever known here in Franklin. Those that were lucky enough to meet him know that no words can describe what a beautiful man he was. He was loved by his partner, Thomas Elliott, his family and his many friends.

In addition to his parents and his partner, he is survived by his sister, Denise Santana of Leominster, MA and his brother, Steven Snow of Peabody, MA

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Fred L. Snyder

Austin TX - Fred L. Snyder, age 82, of Austin passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2008. He was born April 27, 1926 to parents John and Evelyn Snyder in Franklin, NC.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ruth Martin Snyder, his daughter Freda (the apple of his eye), and numerous nieces and nephews. He is survived by several family members from Franklin, NC. He was a long time member of the Austin Civitan Club, a graduate of Kilgore Jr. College and the University of Texas.

He served his country in the United States Navy during WWII. Fred was instrumental in organizing The Austin State School Parent Association where he also served as president. He was a member and past president of the Volunteer Services Council of the Austin State School. He was a member of the Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Austin State School Parent Association, The Volunteer Services Council, 2203 West 35th Street Austin, Texas 78703 or the Parent Association for the Retarded of Texas, PO Box 9733, Austin, Texas 7878-9733, tom-betty@sbcglobal.net.

Visitation will be Wednesday, May 7, 2008 from 5:00-7:00 p.m., at Cook-Walden Funeral Home, 6100 N. Lamar Blvd in Austin, Texas. Chaplain Talkington will conduct Funeral Services at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, May 8, 2008 in the Chapel of Austin State School, 2203 W 35th St. Austin, Texas 78703, (512) 454-4731.

Interment will follow at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Cemetery in Pflugerville.

Courtesy of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home. You may leave a condolence by email

George J. Sorge

Highlands, NC - George J. Sorge, a long term resident of Cashiers and Highlands, died at the age of 96, in his residence at Chestnut Hill. A native of New York City, he was reared in the suburb of New Rochelle. Shortly after Pearl Harbor he enlisted in the Army as a private and was assigned to the Field Artillery at Fort Bragg, NC. He qualified for OCS and at graduation was appointed an instructor at the Field Artillery School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he headed up the Department of Public Speaking/Methods of Instruction & Training. He was subsequently assigned to the 742nd Field Artillery Battalion as Battery Commander and served combat duty in the European Theater. At discharge he was Battalion Commander of the 190th F.A. Bn. and was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service.

After the war he joined the management team of the Durkee Famous Foods Division of the SCM Corp. where he served as National Sales Manager and National Account Manager. Retired in June of 1974, he and his former wife of 25 years, Pearl, who predeceased him, took up residence at "Valley High" in Cashers, NC as a Real Estate Broker. Local civic activity began with his election as Chairman, Building & Grounds Committee of the Cashiers Community Center Board, then Chairman of the Board in which role he initiated the formation of the Cashiers Community Council. He chaired the fundraising activities of the American Cancer Society for a period of three years, served on the board of Trustees of the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital for eight years, was elected Vice-Chairman and subsequently Chairman of the Board. His love for the hospital was evidenced in his continuing role as a volunteer until his passing.

As a member of the Cashiers United Methodist Church he served as Lay Preacher, Lay Leader, Chairman of the Administrative Board, Chairman of the Worship Committee, Teacher/Discussion Leaders, member of the Choir, member of the Church Building Committee, and Chairman of the Parsonage Expansion and Fundraising Committee.

His loving wife, Simone who passed away October 18, 2007. He is survived by his son, G. Jeffery Sorge of Huntington, New York, his daughter, Allyson Sorge of Ghent, New York, five grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at the Cashiers United Methodist Church, 894 Hwy. 107 South, on Saturday, June 21, at 2 pm. Memorial gifts may be made to the Church or the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Randall Sorrells

Franklin, NC - Randall Sorrells, age 61, of Mashburn Branch Community, Franklin, NC went to be with his lord Friday, June 5, 2009 at an Asheville V.A. Hospital. He was born in Macon Co., N.C., the son of the late Grover W. and Hattie Wooten Sorrells. He was a carpenter and electrician. He was a life long member and Deacon of Mashburn Branch Baptist Church and volunteered his time doing building and maintenance on the church. He was a member of The Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 994 and has served as Military Police in the Army and loved riding his motorcycle, working with his tractor, fishing and gardening. Randall was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Della Holland Sorrells; one daughter, Caroline Whitley and husband Mark of St. Pauls, NC; one son, Randy Sorrells and wife Patty of Kernersville, NC; one sister, Ann Brogden of Franklin, NC; two brothers, Jerry Sorrells of Candler, NC and Huel Sorrells of Franklin, NC; one half sister, Robbin Sorrells of Waynesville, NC; one half brother, Robbie Sorrells of Franklin, NC.; one grand-daughter, Holly Whitley.

Funeral services will be held Monday, June 8, 2009 at 1:00 PM at Mashburn Branch Baptist Church with the Rev. Ernie Sanders, Rev. Mike Chastain, Rev. Bill Wooten and Rev. Alton Dendy officiating. Burial will be at Sugarfork Baptist Church Cemetery. Gerald Woods, Bruce Mashburn, John Barrett, Isaac Gibson, J D Gibson, Frederick Sorrells, Phil Sorrells, Chris and Joe Brogden will serve as pallbearers.

The graveside service will be conducted by The Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 994.

The family will receive friends Sunday, June 7 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home in Franklin where the body will remain until placed in the Church thirty minutes prior to the service.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Murl Francis Spalding

Sky Valley, GA - Murl Francis Spalding, age 81, of Sky Valley, GA, passed away Thursday, October 30, 2008 at his home. He was a native of Evansville, IN, the son of the late Leo and Mary O’Bryant Spalding. He worked in freight distribution for Home Interiors, and was a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity. He was a US Army Veteran of World War II, a member of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church and attended St. Francis Catholic Church in Franklin, NC.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jean Kathleen Spalding; four sons, David Spalding and his wife Karen of Birmingham, AL, Timothy Spalding and his wife Janis of Eustis, FL, Cletus Spalding and his wife Betty of Manilla, Phillipines, and Gregory Spalding and his wife Darcel of Buford, GA; two daughters, Lisa Spalding of Raleigh, NC and Lori Amis and her husband John of Alpharetta, GA; two sisters, Monica Hulsey and her husband Joe, and Celia Winiger all of Evansville, Indiana; one brother, Claude Spalding and his wife Mary, of Evansville, Indiana; twenty-two grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren also survive.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Nov. 1st at 11:00am at St. Francis Catholic Church, with Father Tien Duong officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 till 10:45am prior to the service at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to St. Francis, 303 Maple St., Franklin, NC 28734, Regency Hospice, Clayton, GA., or Habitat for Humanity

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Calvin "Squeak" Speed

Highlands, NC - Calvin "Squeak" Speed, 53, of the Buck Creek community died Sat. Nov. 15, 2008 in a Franklin hospital. He was a native of Macon County, the son of the late Chester and Kate Ledford Speed. He was a construction worker, and a member of Blue Valley Baptist Church.

He is survived by a daughter Jessica Stickle of Cocoa Beach, FL, a son, Chester Speed of Cocoa Beach, FL; eight sisters, Nancy Tilson, Kathy Branum, Frankie Beck, Susie Barnes and Rita Speed all of Highlands, NC, Pat Green and Brenda Guertin of Clayton, GA and Tinker Guillet of Charleston, SC; one brother David Speed of Highlands, NC; two grandchildren also survive.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 19th at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home in Highlands, with Rev. Bobby Cloer and Rev. Oliver Rice officiating. Pallbearers will be Sam Johnson, William Passmore, Davis Green, Brantly Potts, Brian Reese, Keith Barnes, and Toby Barnes. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 PM Tuesday evening at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home in Highlands.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Emma "Glyn" Spencer

Highlands, NC -Emma "Glyn" Spencer, age 86, of Highlands, NC passed away Monday, October 27, 2008 at her residence. She was born in Fulton Co., GA, the daughter of the late Joseph T. and Nellie Owings Putnal. She was married to the late Harold L. Spencer. Glyn & Harold owned a home in Highlands at the Highlands Country Club for many years where they were avid golfers. They owned Spencer’s Ltd., on Peachtree Street in Atlanta, GA, a fine menswear shop which specialized in tailor made gentlemen’s clothing. Glyn loved nothing more than her Highlands.

She is survived by four nieces, Sharon Rogers and her husband Frank of Loganville, GA, Mary Glyn Weyant and her husband, Terry of Wynnewood, PA, Kathleen Webb and her husband, Sam of Duluth, GA and Jennifer Guzman and her husband, Bahr of Atlanta, Ga; four nephews, Michael Murphy and his wife, Shelley of Fairfax Station, VA, Patrick Murphy and his wife, Jackye of Hartwell, Ga., Joe Putnal and his wife, Dottie of Norcross, GA and Matt Putnal of Atlanta, GA.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Mary Jane Elizabeth Tainter Spieth

Franklin - Mary Jane Elizabeth Tainter Spieth, age 85, of Sylva, NC  passed away January 16, 2010.  She was born in Lakewood, Ohio, March 23, 1924, and was the beloved daughter of the late Leland Brown Tainter and Maude Kendall Tainter and later, her step mother, Muriel Russell Tainter.  She was married to the late Charles E. Spieth for 67 years.  She was a devoted wife and mother.  She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Independence, Ohio.

She had one brother, Leland B. Tainter, Jr. and wife Barbara, of Riverside, California; one daughter, Linda Trubicza and husband Frank, of Sylva, NC; one son, Larry Spieth and wife Joan, of Canton, Ohio.  She had 7 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Mary Jane will be remembered most by her love for a good poker game and the joy of antiquing.

A celebration of both Mary Jane and Charles E. Spieth and their love for God and each other will be held June 26, 2010 at 11:00AM at Canal Fulton Baptist Church in Ohio. Interment will be held at the Canal Fulton Cemetery.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Donna Louise Carpenter Stacy

Franklin, NC - Donna Louise Carpenter Stacy, age 45, of Rose Creek Cove, Franklin, NC passed away Monday, August 4, 2008 at a local hospital. She was a native and lifelong resident of Macon County, the daughter of Judy Curtis Carpenter of Franklin, NC and the late C.L. Carpenter. She was a RN at Angel Medical Center and was the charge nurse having worked for 22 years. Donna was a member of Bethesda Baptist Church. She loved knitting, puzzle books and playing the piano.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her husband of 25 years, James Stuart Stacy; one sister, Patsy Green of Franklin, NC and one nephew Sammy Carpenter and his wife Amanda of Franklin, NC.

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 8 at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with Rev. William P. Farmer and Rev. Burt Crawford officiating. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Thursday, August 7 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Joan Gladys Sterrie

Known by her friends as Jo, she was entirely devoted to her family. She had a wonderful sense of humor and could always see the funny in everything, a trait that she passed on to her family. She was smart, business minded and missed helping with sales in her daughter’s frame shop and gallery.

Jo loved her grandchildren, the Atlanta Braves, her friends, cats and wild birds.

Like her husband, Jo agreed that her greatest accomplishment in life was that her children loved her and wanted her around. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of crossing paths with her.

She is survived by two daughters, Kris Sterrie of Franklin, NC and Jane Sterrie Escalera, and her husband Emile, of College Park, Georgia; one son, Richard Sterrie and his wife Patricia of Maryville, TN; three grandchildren, Grant and Emily Sterrie and Yuri Escalera; one great-granddaughter, Lucy Sterrie.

Thank you to all the angels that helped Kris with caregiving the last three years, Nina, Bette, Janice and Chris to name a few.

No services are planned. Memorials can be made to Hospice House Foundation at PO Box 815, Franklin, NC 28744.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Homer Edison Stiwinter

Franklin, NC - Homer Edison Stiwinter, age 91, of the Walnut Creek Community, passed away Thursday, April 15, 2010 in a local hospital. He was a native of Macon County, the son of the late Charlie and Lena Hedden Stiwinter. He was a US Army Veteran of World War II, and a member of Walnut Creek Baptist Church. He had worked in a shipyard in Portsmouth, VA. He loved cars.

He is survived by a daughter, Laverne Key and husband Lon of Norwich, Connecticut; two sons, Kenneth Stiwinter of Norwich, Connecticut and Curtis Stiwinter of Hebron, Connecticut; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren also survive.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, April 18th at 3:00pm at Walnut Creek Baptist Church, with Rev. Alton Dendy officiating. Burial will be at Strain Cemetery. The Franklin VFW Post #7339 and American Legion Post #108 will conduct military graveside rites.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00pm, Saturday evening at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, where the body will remain until placed in the Church thirty minutes prior to the service.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Calvin Leroy "Shot" Stockton

Franklin, NC - Calvin Leroy "Shot" Stockton, age 71, of Lively Lane, Franklin, NC passed away Monday, April 27, 2009 at his residence. He was a native of Macon County, the son of the late David J. and Katherine Bates Stockton. He was a brick mason and he dirt track raced at the Rainbow Raceway.

He is survived by his daughter, Melissa Renee Mills of Franklin, NC; his five sons, Roy Lee Stockton of Ohio, Joey Allen Stockton of Rabun Gap, Ga, Richard Kelvin Stockton of Marion, NC, Jamie Chad Stockton of Franklin, NC and Brandon John Stockton of Missouri; two sisters, Williene Hodgin and Shirley Pearson of Georgia; four brothers, Thomas Stockton and Douglas Stockton of Franklin, NC, Jerry Stockton of Blue Ridge, GA and Keith Stockton of Alabama. Fifteen grandchildren also survive.

A gathering will be held Friday, May 1 at 6:00 PM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Edna Belle Hall Stockton

Franklin, NC - Edna Belle Hall Stockton, age 96, of Countryside Drive, Franklin, NC passed away Friday, November 14, 2008 at a Sylva Hospital. She was born June 21, 1912 in Macon County. She was the daughter of the late Robert Lenny (R.L.) and Mary Rebecca Jacobs Hall. She was married to Wade H. Stockton who died July 19, 1977. She was a homemaker and was a member of Iotla Methodist Church.

She is survived by two sons, Billy Joe Stockton of Franklin, NC and Maurice Stockton and his wife, Marilyn of Franklin, NC. Three grandchildren, Bobby J. of Cody, Wyoming, Renee Pruett and Mark Stockton of Franklin. Five great-grandchildren, Chelsea Pruett, Drew Pruett of Franklin; Kori and Wade R. Stockton of Cody, Wyoming, and Natasha Stockton of Franklin.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, November 16 at 2:30PM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with Rev. Alton Dendy officiating. Burial will be held at Iotla Methodist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Mark Stockton, Andy Pruett, Dave Pangle, Bruce Conley, Calvin Conley and Mark Reynolds. She was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Emiko Stockton and four sisters.

The family will receive friends Saturday, November 15 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Angel Home Health, 170 Church Street, Franklin, NC 28734.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

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Mack Carl Stockton

Franklin, NC - Mack Carl Stockton, age 96, of Middle Skeenah Road, Franklin, NC, passed away Thursday, October 8, 2009, at a local hospital. He was a lifelong resident of Macon County, the son of the late Samuel and Rosetta Hastings Stockton. He was married 68 years to Mary Shope Stockton who passed away July 16, 2004. He was a carpenter, farmer and retired from the Georgia Department of Corrections as an officer. Mr. Stockton was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church where he played a major role in the building of the second Pleasant Hill Church and served as Deacon, Superintendent, Trustee and as Adult Sunday School Teacher until age 91.

He is survived by his daughter, Dorothy S. Fields and her husband, Tommy, of Sharpsburg, Georgia; a sister, Pearl Sanders of Franklin, NC; a son-in-law, Lamar Houston of Athens, GA; three grandchildren, Scott Fields, Nicole Houston Stanley and Chad Fields. Five great-grandchildren also survive. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Carol June Stockton Houston and his grandson, Todd Edward Houston; brothers: Grady, Jacob, Archie, Ervin and Thad Stockton; sisters: Ruby Belle, Donna and Nina Stockton.

Funeral services will be held at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church on Tuesday, October 20, at 2:00 PM with Reverends Josh Brooks, Don Moffitt and Eddie Stillwell officiating. Burial will be at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetary. Pallbearers will be Scott Fields, Chad Fields, Gerald Sanders, Mickey Stockton, Randy Stockton and Roger Hall. Honorary pallbearers will be James Mills and Bruce Sanders.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Monday, October 19, at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home, where the body will remain until placed in the Church thirty minutes prior to the service.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Lila Belle Seay Stoudemire

Franklin, NC - Lila Belle Seay Stoudemire, age 95, of Gibson Cove Road, Franklin, NC passed away Monday, January 5, 2008 at Mt. View Manor Care Center in Bryson City, NC. She was born in Lexington Co., South Carolina, the daughter of the late Charlie and Barbara Corley Seay. She was married to Harry C. Stoudemire who passed away November 19, 1997. She was a former nurse at the State Hospital in South Carolina, a retired secretary for Slagle Dairies and she enjoyed quilting, gardening, coloring and canning. She was a member of Memorial United Methodist Church.,

She is survived by two daughters, Edna Earl Gibson and her husband, Dan of Franklin, NC and Mary Ellen Blaine of Suches, GA; one son, Harry Clayton "Junior" Stoudemire and his wife, Edith of Franklin, NC. Nine grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren and thirteen great-great grandchildren also survive. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Pearl Gillion and Curlee Boozer and one brother, Johnny Seay.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 8 at 11:30 AM in the Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with Rev. Keith Newell and Rev. Tim Hayes officiating. Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery. Duke Buchanan, Tommy McCoy, Dick Wallace, Jim Phython, Dolan Bates and Jerry Brown will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends Thursday, January 8 from 10:30-11:30 AM, one hour prior to the service at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are available by visiting www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.

Lottie Swafford

Franklin - Lottie Carolyn Roper Swafford, 88, passed away Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008. The funeral will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Mt. Sinai Assembly of God Church.

Visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the church.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge.

Virginia Brown Sweeny

Highlands, NC - Virginia Brown Sweeny of Highlands, passed away October 31 at her residence.

Virginia was born in Florence, SC on November 5, 1917, a daughter of Leroy K and Virginia K. Brown. She attended the public schools in Florence, and in 1935 entered Furman University. At Furman she participated in the Bach and Chapel Choirs, was a member of the Student Government Association, and was elected into Zetosophia, the honorary scholastic fraternity. She graduated in 1939 with a BA degree in Music.

Ginny and Jim Sweeny were married on April 19, 1941. Their first son was born while Jim was in India during the war. After his return to civilian life, they lived in Pittsfield and Lenox, MA and Baltimore, MC, where Ginny made a home for their growing family. In Pittsfield she was a member of the Hospital Auxiliary, participated in United Way fund drives,m and was inducted into PEO. She was also a member of the Lenox, MA Congregational Church. Throughout Jim’s career in GE, she was a gracious hostess to his business associates and to their many friends, and in his retirement, she was his dearest friend and companion until in her nineties, when an advanced case of arthritis and heart complications finally took their toll.

Ginny Sweeny died at home in Highlands, NC on October 31, 2009. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Survivors include her husband; their three children, James O. Sweeny,Jr and wife Barbara of Oldsmar, FL, V. Kee Howles and husband Jeffrey of Schenectady,NY and Robert M. Sweeny of Charleston, SC; two grandsons and two granddaughters. Memorials may be made to the Highlands-Cashiers Hospice, PO Box 190, Highlands, NC 28741

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Dorothy Jean Symonds

Franklin, NC - Dorothy Jean Symonds, age 91, of Old Murphy Road, Franklin, NC passed away Saturday, May 1, 2010 at a Highlands-Cashiers Nursing Center. She was born in Monroe Co., NY, the daughter of the late William Raymond and Bessie Scheib Hollis. She was married to Harold James Symonds who passed away December 15, 1998. She was a draftsman for the New York Air Brake Company and the NY state public works, retired as a Real Estate Broker,was a Floral Designer,and was a private pilot. She was a member of the Unity Church of Miami, FL and Franklin, NC.

She is survived by her daughter, Linda Claire Symonds of Franklin, NC.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Macon County Humane Society, PO Box 81/851 Lake Emory Road, Franklin, NC 28734

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.