Linnea Soderlund Coblentz, 88

Linnea Soderlund Coblentz, 88, was received in the arms of her Lord on December 4, 2018. She was born on May 27, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois; a daughter of the late Carl Edward and Elizabeth Frances Soderlund.

She married Donald “Don” Raymond Coblentz on January 22, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois. Their first child, Donald Michael Coblentz, was born in Chicago. They moved to Boca Raton, Florida in 1957 and had three more children: Caryllynn, Jo Anne, and Elizabeth Frances.

She was a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend, and teacher. She embraced life in every sense of the word. Besides family, she had a passion for many things including sailing, dancing, reading, traveling, exercising, Catholicism and, most of all, her many close friends. She was a pioneer in her own right. She worked full-time, raised four children and was in the first graduating class of Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in 1965. She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physical Education and continued her education at FAU and earning a Master’s Degree in Counseling. In 1968, FAU opened a developmental research school, Alexander. D. Henderson University School. Linnea became its director of physical education and a team coach for the next twenty-five years. She was also an Adjunct Physical Education Professor at FAU.

After retiring from FAU, she and Don moved to Sebastian, Florida and lived there for fifteen years. In 2007 they moved to Etowah, NC.

She is survived by her husband Don of 63 years (January 22, 2019, would have marked their 64th wedding anniversary); four children: Donald Michael Coblentz, Caryllynn Coblentz, JoAnne Coblentz Williams, and Elizabeth Frances Coblentz; six grandchildren: Josh Yost, Kandi Yost, Brian Michael Coblentz and his wife Amy Coblentz, Michael Daniel Coblentz, Grayson Michael Coblentz, Danielle Linnea Williams , Karis Elizabeth Coblentz , Caden Edward Coblentz; five great grandchildren: Kayla Anne Coblentz, Kylie Brooke Coblentz, Hannah Yost, Camden Yost, and Sumter Yost; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be two services held. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, December 21, 2018 at Immaculate Conception Church with Father Martin officiating. Another memorial service will be held Friday, January 4, 2018 at 11:00 am at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 370 SW 3rd Street, Boca Raton, Fl 33432.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of the arrangements.

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Lloyd (Lefty) Williams, 83

On Tuesday, December 11, 2018, Lloyd (Lefty) Williams, 83, went home to be with the Lord following a brief illness at The Elizabeth House.
A lifelong resident of Henderson County, he was the son of the late Ernest and Ruth Williams. Lefty was preceded in death by his wife Dollie Jean Mckinna Williams who passed in 1993; a daughter, Sharon Brogden who passed in 2017; two brothers, Claude and Bud; and two sisters, Jeanette and Sarah.
Lefty retired from Ecusta Corp. in 1997 and then retired from Apple Country Transportation in 2016. Lefty was a member of Etowah Baptist Church and a former member of Etowah-Horse Shoe Fire Department where he served as Chief of Department and as a Board of Director. Lefty was a former member of the Etowah Lions Club where he was very proud to be a member of the team that worked tirelessly to establish and begin building the current Etowah Park. He served the Etowah community in many other ways such as Scoutmaster, bus driver and just helping a neighbor in need.
Lefty is survived by a daughter, Nancy Williams Durmire and her husband Robert of Dana; a son, Mike Williams and his wife Cathy of Etowah; a son-in-law, Lathe Brogden; six grandchildren, Christopher and his wife Brittany, Courtney and her husband Brandon, Brittney and her husband Derek, Holly, Cameron, Cassandra; four great grandchildren; and his friend and companion, Naia Parker.
Visitation will be Saturday, December 15, 2018 from 6-8 pm at Thos. Shepherd & Son in Hendersonville. A funeral service will be held at Etowah Baptist Church at a later date due to inclement weather.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Etowah Baptist Church, Promise Center Fund 6508 Brevard Rd, Etowah, NC 28729.
An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.

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Margaret Stonecipher Thomas, 87

Margaret Stonecipher Thomas age 87, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 4, 2018 after a brief illness. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband of over 46 years, Royce P “Bo” Thomas, her sister, Mary Stonecipher Skinner Tichy, as well as her son-in-law, Stephen Vieira.

 A Henderson County native, Margaret Cecille Stonecipher was born on March 21, 1931 at Patton Hospital, a daughter of the late Blenda Latt Stonecipher and Cecil Fullerton Stonecipher. She graduated with the class of 1948 from Hendersonville High School and continued to remain active in the Hendersonville High School Alumni Association as a loyal “Bearcat.” She graduated first in her class from Southern Seminary College in Virginia in 1950. She married the love of her life, “Bo” Thomas in 1951 and lovingly reared their three children. She worked as the Chief Financial Officer for many years for Thomas Brothers Produce Company until her retirement in 2012.

She was an active member of the Hendersonville Lions Club and held several offices with PEO respectfully. An active philanthropist in the community, she was an ardent supporter of Blue Ridge Community College as well as the preservation of The Historic Hendersonville Courthouse. She loved to play bridge with her favorite bridge partner, Nancy Wert, and loved ballroom dancing. She loved Duke Basketball and attended many games and tournaments and was a lifetime member of The Iron Dukes. She enjoyed traveling not only in the United States with her friends, Bobbye Lucas and Eleanor Morrow, affectionately referred to as the “Golden Girls” as well as having traveled extensively visiting five different continents as well. She was baptized in and was a lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church of Hendersonville.

 She is survived by her three children: James Royce Thomas, Mary Thomas Vieira and Richard Latt Thomas and his wife Sherry. She is survived by her four grandchildren:
Stephen Alexander Vieira; Weesie Vieira Thelen and husband Colby; Margaret Vieira Riach and husband Kyle; and Chapman Karlsson Thomas and wife Leanne. She is also survived by her cousin, John Latt and his wife Becky,as well as numerous members of the Thomas Family.

A Celebration of Margaret’s life will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, December 7, 2018 at the Hendersonville Presbyterian Church with the Reverend Kathryn Cameron officiating. She will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, December 6, 2018 at the Thomas residence.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions for Margaret's lifelong church, First Presbyterian Church of Hendersonville. 816 4th Avenue West, Hendersonville, NC 28739

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thos.shepherd.com.
Thos.Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors are in charge of the arrangements.

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Boyd Gregory Pittillo, 73

Boyd Gregory Pittillo age 73 of Hendersonville died Tuesday December 4, 2018 at The Laurel’s of Hendersonville.

He was a native and life long resident of Henderson County and a Hendersonville Bear Cat. A son of the late Boyd and Thelma Pittillo.

He retired after 36 years with G.E.. He was a former member of East Flat Rock United Methodist Church

where he taught Sunday School and Disciple Bible Study and was a current member of First United Methodist Church.

He is survived wife of 50 years Martha Gail Johnson Pittillo, one daughter Melanie (Rodney) Edwards of Concord, NC, one son Brian (Jennifer) Pittillo of Hendersonville; as well as three grandchildren; Benjamin Edwards, Matthew Pittillo, and Kaitlyn Pittillo.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday December 15, 2018 at First Methodist Church of Hendersonville. With the Rev. Mark Ralls and Rev. Sidney Lanier officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hendersonville First Methodist Church Back Pack Fund. 204 6th Ave West. Hendersonville, NC 28739.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com Thos Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of the arrangements.

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Sarah Brown Gilbert, 99

Sarah Brown Gilbert died December 2, 2018 at the Carolina Village Care Center in Hendersonville, NC. She was born April 19, 1919 in Fairmont, NC to Harold Vardell and Ossie Clark Brown. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband William Leon (Bill) Gilbert III, a son William L. Gilbert IV and her brother Harold V. Brown Jr.

She is survived by her son Harold Brown Gilbert (Linda) and her daughter Sally Moffitt ( Dr.Ron) of Hendersonville. She is also survived by her four grandchildren: Chip Gilbert (Cathey) and Jennifer Gonzales (Vincent) of Hendersonville, Abby Downing (Henry) of Johns Island, SC and Lindsay Dunn (John) of Glastonbury, CT. In addition she is survived by four great-grandchildren: Rylee and Emily Gonzales and Carter and Emerson Dunn.

After moving to Hendersonville in 1962 she became an active volunteer for Hendersonville City Schools, served on the Boards of the Mental Health Association, Habitat for Humanity and the Henderson County Council for Women. She was an Elder in the Presbyterian Church USA and a charter member and Elder of Trinity Presbyterian Church.

A celebration of Sarah’s life will be held at 1:00 P.M., Friday, December 7, 2018 at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Hendersonville with Reverend Mark Stanley officiating.

In lieu of flowers Sarah requested that donations be made to Henderson County Habitat for Humanity, 1111 Keith Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792, the Carolina Village Residents’ Assistance Fund, 600 Carolina Village Road, Hendersonville, NC 28792 or Four Seasons Compassion for Life, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

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Richard Earl "Bud” Zalesky, 87

Richard Earl "Bud” Zalesky, 87, of Hendersonville died Sunday, November 18, 2018 at Mission Hospital. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on December 7, 1931; a son of the late James and Alice Jennens Zalesky. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Jean Zalesky; his first wife and the mother of his children, Mary Louise Tiernan Zalesky; as well as his sister-in-law, Sherry Zalesky.

He grew up in Miami, FL. After a tour in the US Air Force, where he spent his service teaching electronics and maintenance of bomb/navigation systems on the B47 and B52, he graduated from
the University of Miami in 1959 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He enjoyed a 30 year career in Research and Development at Lockheed Aircraft until his retirement in 1989 and then
relocated to Hendersonville. He was a skilled wood worker/turner, fly fisherman, gourmet cook, community volunteer, as well as an active member of St. James.

He is survived by his beloved Judy; three children, Rick (Charlene) Zalesky of Atlanta, GA, Chris (Nancy) Zalesky of Doylestown, PA, and Jean (Mike) Rentnelli of Deltona, FL. He
leaves behind his four cherished grandchildren: Zack (Hannah) Zalesky, Christopher Zalesky and finance (Julia), Zola (Austin) Lopeman, and Patrick Zalesky and friend, (Jess). A brother, Jim
Zalesky of Chicago, IL, also survives him, as do his second family, Kristin (Jason) Woodbury and Kane Mettler, both of CA, and Kevin Mettler, deceased.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 7, 2018, at St. James Episcopal Church. Interment will immediately follow the service at the church in the Burns Powell Garden.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions may be directed to the Carolina Mountain Woodturners Assn., P.O. Box 16606, West Asheville, NC 28806, or to a charity of one's choice.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of
arrangements.

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Leslie Ray Bryant, Jr., 91

Leslie Ray Bryant, Jr., M.D., age 91, of Asheville died Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community. He was born March 10, 1927 in Hattisburg, MS.; a son of the late Leslie Ray and Clara Louise Terrell Bryant, Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Claire Bryant Savell.

He graduated from Ole Miss and received his M.D. degree from the University of Tennessee School of Medicine. He served in the US Navy as a Pharmacist’s Mate 3rd class. He retired as a pathologist and Director of Transfusion Medicine at Southern Baptist Hospital in New Orleans after 38 years. He traveled on short term mission trips to Democratic Republic of the Congo and Kenya. For over 30 years, he enjoyed teaching bible school. He was former Secretary of American Association of Blood Banks, Past President of South Central Association of Blood Banks, and an Emeritus Fellow of American College of Pathology.

He is survived by his spouse of 34 years, Annie Ackerman Bryant; son, Leslie Ray Bryant III, M.D. of Anchorage, AK; two daughters: Brenda L. Bryant, M.D. of Asheville, Barbara Bryant Gills and her husband, Larry Gills, M.D. of Ft. Smith, AR. He is also survived by three grandchildren: Leslie Ray Bryant IV, Alexander Choudury Bryant and Lindsay Jackson Gills.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, November 30, 2018 at St. Giles Chapel with Reverend Richard “Lin” Walton and Rev. Tonya Hill officiating. Burial will follow at 2:00 pm at Western North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Dr. Bryant’s memory be directed to Deerfield Residents Fund, 1617 Hendersonville Rd, Asheville, NC 28803 or Medical Benevolence Foundation, P O Box 96877, Washington DC 20090.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.
Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of the arrangements.

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Lucy Moore Beddingfield, 97

Lucy Moore Beddingfield, age 97, of Hendersonville died Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at the Laurels of Hendersonville. She was born December 18, 1920 in Madison County; a daughter of the late Clarence Samuel and Hessie Phipps Moore. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Otis Beddingfield.

She grew up in Pahokee, Florida and graduated from Pahokee High School. She was a 1944 graduate of the Mountain Sanitarium School of Nursing earning her degree as a Registered Nurse. She was a Registered Nurse at Patton Memorial Hospital and continued as one of the original Pardee Hospital Registered Nurses. She was the Head Registered Nurse of Obstetrics until her retirement in December 1982.

She is survived by two daughters: Jean Faulkner and her husband Gary of Flat Rock; Judith Tooley of Charlotte. She is also survived by a stepson, James Beddingfield of Sarasota, FL; and a stepdaughter, Jane Stevens of Hendersonville. Five grandchildren: Grant Faulkner and his wife Kimberly of Hendersonville; Elizabeth Faulkner of Chicago, IL; Sonya Rokes Carlisle and her husband Craig of Los Angeles, CA.; Carla Rokes Robertson and her husband Todd of Wilmington, and step granddaughter, Cindy Miller and her husband Mike of Hendersonville. Five great grandchildren: River Faulkner, Tucker Faulkner, Eli Faulkner all of Hendersonville; Raya Robertson and Maxwell Robertson of Wilmington.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 16, 2018 at Shepherd Memorial Park with Pastor Charles Ferguson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Lucy’s memory be directed to Pardee Cancer Center, 805 6th Ave. West, Hendersonville, NC 28791.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements.

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Edward “Ed” Vogel, 81

Edward “Ed” Vogel, 81, of Hendersonville entered into rest on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

Born in Milwaukee, WI, he was the son of the late Gertrude and William Solomon Vogel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Vogel and brother, Nealon Vogel.

Edward received his Master’s Degree in Public Health and was a physical therapy administrator. He was a nursing home administrator and then a hospital administrator. Following his retirement from the medical field, he owned a Buck Stove business and then was a general contractor. He was a member of the Fletcher Seventh-day Adventist Church. Over a 21-year period, he spent time volunteering with Junior Achievement. His interests were travelling and cars, but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 28 years, Karen K. Vogel; daughters, Vicki (Jeff) Owens of Palm Coast, FL; Cynthia (Jim) Wiley of Hendersonville; and Candace Warner of Orlando, FL; sons, Steven (Cherry) Vogel of Ooltewahi, TN and Guy (Iris) Smith of Hilton Head Island, SC; grandchildren, Alicia and Michael Malinki, Grant and Dylan Vogel, Erin Wiley Mitschow, Curtis Wiley, and Lillian Smith; nephew, Bill Vogel; sister-in-law, Jean Vogel; and friends, Mr. and Mrs. James McCammon.

A service for family will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Four Seasons Compassion for Life, 221 N. Main St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 or Fletcher Seventh-day Adventist Church, 1141 Howard Gap Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792.

Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family.

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Gladys Hall Estes, 85

Gladys Hall Estes, 85, of Hooper’s Creek, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 11, 2018 at her home.

She was a dedicated member of Hooper’s Creek Baptist Church for over 65 years, and retired from Gerber Foods after 31 years of service.

Gladys is preceded in death by her husband Dealous Dexton Estes who died on December 26, 2002; as well as a sister, Geneva Estes and a brother, Weldon Hall.

She is survived by three sons: Doyle Estes and his wife Janis of Fletcher, Dexter Estes and his wife Robin of Fletcher, and Wayne Estes and his wife Pam of Hendersonville; a sister-in-law, Lula Morgan of Fletcher; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews; and children of the heart: Louise Conner and Family and Grover Barnwell and Family.

The family would like to extend their love and thanks for all the prayers and help that they received.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at Hooper’s Creek Baptist Church. The Rev. Philip Youngblood, Rev. Rick Phillips, and Rev. Eddie Youngblood will officiate. Burial will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the Old Savannah Cemetery in Sylva, NC. The family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service at the church.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.

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Vera “Aileen” Frisbee Todd, 93

Vera “Aileen” Frisbee Todd, 93, of Lyndale Road in Hendersonville, died Sunday, November 11, 2018 at Cherry Springs Village.

She was born November 13, 1924 in Madison County, NC to the late Dewey William Frisbee and Allie Forrester Frisbee.  Aileen is also preceded in death by her husband, Henry Edwin Todd; a son, Henry Edwin Todd Jr.; and a brother, Daniel Warren Frisbee.

She is survived by a daughter, Edwina Garrison and her husband Walter of Morganton; a son, Daniel Todd and his wife Stephanie of Hendersonville; six grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; a brother Edward Frisbee of Hot Springs; a sister Estie Lee McFee and her husband Bob of Leicester; a sister-in-law, Billie Frisbee of Hendersonville; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 15, 2018 at Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel with Rev. Greg Mathis and Rev. John Powers officiating.  Burial will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery in Asheville.  The family will receive friends from 11:00 to 11:45 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.  At other times the family will be at the home.

Memorial contributions may be sent to: Alzheimer’s Association, 31 College Place, Suite D 320, Asheville, NC 28801 or Shriners Hospital for Children, P.O. Box 1901, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thossheperd.com.  Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be sent to: Alzheimer’s Association, 31 College Place, Suite D 320, Asheville, NC 28801 or Shriners Hospital for Children, P.O. Box 1901, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

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Velma Nina Hooper Beddingfield, 91

Velma Nina Hooper Beddingfield, 91, formally of Tuxedo, went to be with the Lord Sunday morning on November 11, 2018 at the Elizabeth House.

She was born February 16, 1927 to the late Albert and Lily Hooper. Velma is also preceded in death by a son, Danny Wiggins; and four sisters, Emogene Williams, Jane Williams, Thelma Heatherly, and Dorothy Hooper.

She is survived by her loving husband of seventy years Bergen Beddingfield; three daughters, Brenda Davis and her husband James, Doris Maybin and her husband Bobby, and Rita Clark; a brother James Hooper and his wife Peggy; and ten grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 16, 2018 at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church with Rev. Sam Beddingfield officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 1:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.

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Kay “Kathleen” McInulty Barnwell, 83

Kay “Kathleen” McInulty Barnwell, 83, formally of Fruitland passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 4, 2018 at the Elizabeth House after a short illness.

Kay was born on January 14, 1935 in Glasgow, Scotland to her beloved late parents Catherine & Patrick McInulty. Kay is preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Clyde Barnwell who died in 2002, as well as five older sisters, and one younger brother.

Kay came to the United States of America, disembarking in Chicago, from Scotland in 1957 which was a wonderfully brave thing to do for a young lady of only 22 years old. She loved the USA and soon became a citizen. While in Chicago she met her husband, Bill and they continued to reside in Chicago before retiring and relocating to Fruitland in 1984. Kay continued to live in Fruitland until earlier this year, until she relocated to the Brookdale of Hendersonville, which she really enjoyed.

Kay is survived by her family in Scotland including her niece, Carol Ann Kelly, as well as her many friends not only in the Hendersonville Community but in Chicago as well. She was much loved & will be very much missed.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 9, 2018 at Edneyville United Methodist Church with Rev. Jerry Warren and Rev. Debbie Robinson officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent to: Open Arms Pregnancy Center, 329 N. Washington St., Hendersonville, NC 28739 or Kids for Christ, P.O. Box 394, Hot Springs, NC 28743.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thos.shepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors are in charge of the arrangements.

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Virginia L. Hamilton, 91

Virginia L. Hamilton, age 91 of Hendersonville died Friday, November 2, 2018 at Sunnybrook Assisted Living. A Henderson County native, she was born December 6, 1926, a daughter of the late Lloyd Manning and Martha Peahuff Laughter. She was also preceded in death by two brothers: Theodore Columbus “T.C.” Laughter and Lloyd Manning Laughter, Jr.; as well as one sister, Lillie Mae Laughter.

She was a graduate of Flat Rock High School and a dedicated member of Valley Hill Baptist Church. She was a “Number Please” girl at Southern Bell, then, a beautician at Raylass, later owning and operating Virginia’s Beauty Shop.

She was preceded by her husband, Thomas, and is survived by a daughter, Gayle Stepp and her husband Larry Sr., one grandson, Larry Jr. and his wife Kelly, as well as two great grandchildren: Luke and Natalie. She is also survived by her two sisters: Connie Laughter Rhymer and Ruby Laughter Pruitt, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Pleasant Hill Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 6773 Hendersonville North Carolina, 28793 or to Valley Hill Baptist Church, 118 School Street Hendersonville North Carolina, 28739.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center are in charge of the arrangements.

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William “Bill” Crum, 93

William “Bill” Crum, 93, of Asheville died on Monday, October 29, 2018 at his home in Givens Estates. He was born on September 4, 1925 in Hancock County, IL; a son of the late James Edward and Elma Gene Anderson Crum. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters and four brothers.

He was the seventh of eight siblings who grew up on a farm in Western Illinois near the Mississippi River. He was educated in a one-room schoolhouse, played center for the LaHarpe High School football team, won the Latin Prize, and graduated as Valedictorian at sixteen. He enrolled in the University of Illinois’s College of Engineering in 1942, where he studied until he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1944. Eventually he was assigned to work on The Manhattan Project at Oak Ridge, Tennessee. When World War II ended, he went back to Urbana and finished his Mechanical Engineering degree in 1947, graduating with high honors.

He immediately went to work for A.P. Green Refractories, working as a draftsman in Mexico, MO. Once he had worked long enough to afford an engagement ring, he proposed to Eleanor Marie LaForge and they were married in 1948 and had two children. His work transferred him to Philadelphia, PA, Morristown, NJ, Houston, TX, and Bloomfield Hills, MI. He climbed the corporate ladder until he became Vice-President of Construction for Bigelow-Liptak Corp.

Retiring from Green Industries in 1989, he and Eleanor moved to Hendersonville and the mountains of Western North Carolina where he designed their dream home that included a large workshop built around his beloved lathe. He had always loved working with his hands. He became an avid woodworker, a bowl-turner, toy-maker, handyman, and fixer-of-all-things and was never happier than when he was making or fixing something for someone.

In 2005, he and Eleanor (and the lathe) moved to Givens Estates where he continued his work as a member of the Given Estates Woodworkers Interest Group (GEWIG). On September 4, 2018, he turned ninety-three. On October 3, 2018, he and Eleanor celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Eleanor LaForge Crum. He is also survived by one daughter, Jane Ann Crum; one son, Robert Crum and his wife, Gabrielle; one grandson, Thomas; and one granddaughter, Ryan.

His memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm, Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at First United Methodist Church with Reverend Mark Ralls and Reverend Ed Hillman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Mr. Crum’s memory be made to Givens Estates Woodworking Interest Group, Givens Estates, Attn: Resident Woodshop Fund, 2360 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28803 or Carolina Mountain Woodturners, CMW, c/o Penny Carter, 7 Cane Creek Circle, Fairview, NC 28730.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements.

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Marsha Kay Kloustin Downs, 75

Marsha Kay Kloustin Downs, 75, of Hendersonville died on Sunday, October 28, 2018 at the Elizabeth House after a long battle with cancer. She was born September 29, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan; a daughter of the late Jack Ashton and Irene Esther Raass Kloustin.

She grew up in Berkley and Royal Oak, MI. For many years she worked as a surgical nurse in Michigan while rearing her two sons in West Bloomfield. She moved to Hendersonville in 2010 and became a dedicated volunteer at Schenck Job Corps in Pisgah Forest as the Co-Coordinator of the Fresh Start Closet, a shop that provides clothing and home goods to disadvantaged students, as part of an incentive program for the kids. In 2013, she married her husband, John Downs, at the English Chapel in Pisgah Forest. Initially, she and John made their home in The Oaks but later moved to Carriage Park where they became involved in many community activities.

In addition to her husband, John; she is also survived by her two sons: Michael Underwood of Troy, MI and Otis “Chip” Underwood and his wife, Amy of Aurora, IL; her three beloved grandchildren: Jacob, Ian and Ella.

Her memorial service in her memory will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 10, 2018 in Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel with the Reverend Alex Knight officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to either The Elizabeth House Hospice, 581 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731, or the Fresh Start Closet, 98 Schenck Dr., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements.

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Col. Victor Sumter Vierra, (US ARMY, Ret.), 85

Col. Victor Sumter Vierra, (US ARMY, Ret.), 85, died at home at Tryon Estates in Columbus on October 14, 2018 following a lengthy illness. He was born November 5, 1932 on Sullivan’s Island, SC; a son of the late Francisco Joseph and Maria Angelina Costa Vierra. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved adoptive father Thomas Horton, his foster mother Sue, as well as three brothers Fred, Edwin, and Vernon, and four sisters, Dorothy, Mildred, Jean, and Patricia.

As a youth, he was fondly known to all as “Vicky”. He was adopted by Rev. Thomas Walter Horton of the Presbyterian Church who would be his lifelong mentor and spiritual guide. He was a graduate of Presbyterian College, class of 1957. He excelled in his college career where he was tapped for the Blue Key Honor Society and president of Scabbard and Blade among many other honors and leadership positions. Upon graduation, he was commissioned by the U. S. Army which lead to a distinguished 28 year career. His first assignment was as a Second Lieutenant in the Armor Branch which took him to Fort Knox, Kentucky where he met Jean Stewart, the love of his life. They married on February 28, 1959. As an Army couple, their life together would be filled with frequent moves, but, also, steadfast love and respect.

His military career would take him all over the world, including assignments to Vietnam as an advisor in the Mekong Delta to the AfSouth Nato Headquarter in Naples, Italy. Stateside his assignments included the Pentagon, Ft. Benning, Ft. Leavenworth, Ft. McPherson, and Ft. Ord. He was noted for his articulate, practical and incisive style. As one of his commanding officers noted, if there was a difficult or complex job to be done, turn it over to Victor. The military achievement of which he was most proud was his command at Pan Mun Jong, Korea. It was at this time the infamous North Korea’s “axe murder” of two American officers occurred. His swift, insightful action is credited for preventing a renewal of hostilities between North and South Korea. This event and the actions of Operation Paul Bunyan and Task Force Vierra are the subject of an upcoming National Geographic documentary. The Republic of Korea has honored Victor with the Samil Medal believing that his actions and the staunch support by the Americans at this time gave Korea the confidence to develop from principally agrarian culture to an industrial leader. In 2015, he was inducted into the Presbyterian College ROTC Hall of Fame.

Upon his retirement from the Army, he and Jean moved to Hendersonville where he enjoyed his favorite pastimes of auction going, antique refinishing, gardening, woodcarving, and traveling. He became an active member of Grace Lutheran Church where he was a member of the Church Council and a Board member of Interfaith Assistance Ministry. Throughout his life and various assignments, he was very involved in the church serving often as a Sunday School teacher as well as serving on advisory council. His family and faith were always his touchstones in all matters.

He is survived by his wife Jean, of almost 60 years. His two sons: Victor Sumter Vierra, Jr. and his wife Beth Ann of Warren, Pa; Kent Stewart Vierra of Fort Walton, Fl and his daughter Lisa Hope Vierra-Moore and her husband, Joel of Laurel Park. In addition, he is survived by three brothers: Moultrie Vierra of Camarillo, Ca; David Vierra of Mt. Pleasant, SC, and Thomas Horton of Ft. Mill, SC as well as two sisters: Mary Brown Schepper and Susan Horton Van Zile both of Rock Hill.

The two lights of Victor’s later life were his two granddaughters, Abby and Madeleine Hatch. They gave him much joy, and they delighted in his playful nature and gentle guidance he bestowed on them as he had done with their mother, Lisa.

He is remembered with great love and respect by his many nephews, nieces, great nephews, and great nieces, as well as his colleagues, friends and church members.

His memorial service will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Hendersonville on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at 2:00 pm. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery will be forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Wounded Warriors, PO Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8517 are appreciated.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements.

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Dr. James Victor Volk

HENDERSONVILLE – Dr. James Victor Volk of Hendersonville went home to be with the Lord Saturday morning, October 20, 2018, at home surrounded by his loving family.
A native of Chicago, Illinois, he was the son of the late Edwin and Anita Volk. A proud Eagle Scout, Dr. Volk attended Valparaiso University where he met his future wife, Barbara Glennon, on the train from Chicago to northern Indiana. He attended Wake Forest University School of Medicine, where he received his medical degree. He completed his first two years of pediatric residency at Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago, and his third year of residency at Wake Forest/Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem.
Dr. Volk joined Hendersonville Pediatrics in 1975 where he became a partner and served the community as a caring doctor to thousands of children in Henderson, Polk, Transylvania and the surrounding counties until he retired in 2016. He served as Chief of Pediatrics at both Pardee and Park Ridge Hospitals and worked to establish the area’s first pediatric neonatal intensive care unit.
An active member of the community, Dr. Volk was involved in numerous activities including Four Seasons Rotary Club, Children and Family Resource Center, United Way of Henderson County, French Broad River Foundation, Riverlink, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy, and Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church.
His dedication to children’s health was not limited to his own community. He served on numerous medical mission trips to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Madagascar, and Haiti.
In 2016, Dr. Volk was awarded the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award, a culmination of a life filled with community service and dedication.
Dr. Volk is survived by his wife of 50 years, Barbara Glennon Volk; his son, Peter and wife, Susan and their sons, Kyle and wife, Helena Harahus, Kraig Harahus, and Cody Harahus; and his daughter, Carrie Powers and husband, Jason. He was a proud and loving Bumpa to Aiden and Zachary Powers and Alexia, Jocelynn, and Cason Harahus. Additional family are his brother, John and wife, Arlene; sister, Janet and their children; and brother-in-law, James Glennon.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church. The family will receive friends at a reception in the church fellowship hall following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made for the Haiti Mission Fund at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church, 2606 Chimney Rock Road, Hendersonville, NC 28792; the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML), 801 Seminary Place, Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105; or to a charity of your choice.
An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of the arrangements.

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Phyllis Lucille McCall Adcock, 88

Phyllis Lucille McCall Adcock, 88, of Spartanburg, SC, passed away on Monday, October 15, 2018 at Pardee Hospital. She was born August 8, 1930 in Transylvania County; a daughter of the late Justin and Bertha Long McCall. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Thomas Adcock who died in 2001.

She loved the outdoors, long walks, traveling and camping. One of her greatest joys were her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is survived by three daughters: Patsy Nix and her husband Eddie of Hendersonville, Diane Sargent and her husband Greg of Canada, and Pamela Barnwell and her husband John of Spartanburg, SC. Her four grandchildren: Eric Orr and Corey McCall both of Hendersonville, Jonathan Barnwell and Olivia Barnwell both of Spartanburg, SC. Her four great grandchildren: Kade Orr and Alyssa McCall both of Hendersonville, Kamden Barnwell and Riley Barnwell both of Spartanburg, SC.

Her celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, October 18, 2018 at Thos. Shepherd & Son Chapel with her niece, Karen Bayne officiating. Burial will follow in Shepherd Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Phyllis to the Alzheimer’s Association 31 College Pl #103, Asheville, NC 28801.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.

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Mary Burton Weess, 86

Mary Burton Weess, age 86, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, October 8, 2018 at her home in Flat Rock, North Carolina. Born in Asheville, North Carolina, Mary was the daughter of Charles and Annie Mae Wilson Dotson. She was blessed to be born into the “Dotson Tribe,” her very large and God loving family of ten brothers and one sister.
In 1948 she was married to Wirron Wallace Burton, and during their 50 year marriage the couple lived in Asheville, North Carolina, Hickory, North Carolina and Greensboro, North Carolina. In 1997 the Burtons moved to Flat Rock to be closer to family, and in 1998 Mary’s husband, Wirron died.
Mary was wed to Allan Weess of Hendersonville from 2001 until 2004 when he passed away. In 2005, Mary met her “Soul Mate,” dear friend, and constant companion, Edward Erickson. Mary and Ed greatly enjoyed playing bridge together with friends they made at the former Opportunity House and Thoms Park prior to her illness.
Mary was educated in Asheville where she attended Oakley High School. When the Burton family moved to Hickory in 1958, she sought employment in the field of textiles as a receptionist and later became the secretary to the plant manager at Ivey Weavers. After working in the Hickory plant, she accepted a position at the corporate headquarters of Burlington Industries in Greensboro, where she worked until her retirement as a Cost Analyst and an Economic Analyst.
A person of great faith, Mary attended First Baptist Church in Hendersonville, North Carolina until health problems ensued.
Mary is survived by two daughters, Marcia Burton Caserio and her husband, James Joseph Caserio, M.D. of Flat Rock, North Carolina and Sonya Burton Trull and her husband, Steven Gregory Trull, of St. Charles, Missouri.
Mary is also survived by five grandchildren, Steven Creighton Trull and wife, Jodi Lynn Trull of Thompsons Station, Tennessee, Christina Caserio Corn and husband, Brian Michael Corn of Orlando Florida , Maria Patrice Caserio of Los Angeles, California, Kemper Burton Trull and wife, Jamie Lee Trull, of Franklin, Tennessee, Anthony James Caserio of New York City and five great grandchildren, Emily Taylor Trull, Abigail Lynn Trull, Steven Eli Trull, Miles Kemper Trull and Norah Lee Trull.
Mary is also survived by two brothers, Garry Don Dotson of Asheville, North Carolina and Tony Dotson of Brevard, North Carolina, over 20 nieces and nephews, and by her loving caregivers, Mary and David Spanton of Black Mountain, North Carolina and Andrea Stone of Hendersonville, North Carolina
A Celebration of the Life of Mary Burton Weess will be held on Monday, October 22, 2018 at Oakley United Methodist Church in Asheville, North Carolina at 11:00 a.m. The Reverend Kelly Dotson, niece of the deceased will officiate. The family will receive guests immediately following the service in the fellowship hall of the church. A private interment will be held for the immediate family at the graveside in the Gashes Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. Mary will rest in peace beside her beloved husband, Wirron Wallace Burton.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Pardee Hospital Foundation, 561 Fleming Street, Hendersonville, North Carolina, 28739, the Carolina Village Employee Fund, 600 Carolina Village Rd., Hendersonville, North Carolina, 28792 or Interfaith Assistance Ministry, 310 Freeman St., Hendersonville, North Carolina, 28792.
An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements.

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