Judy Wyatt Anderson, 69

Judy Wyatt Anderson, 69, of Hendersonville, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2017 at Hendersonville Health and Rehab after an extended illness.
She was a native of Henderson County and the daughter of Ernest and Geraldine Stepp Wyatt.
Judy attended East Henderson High School, Blanton Business College and Blue Ridge Tech. She was employed by Belk Simpson in South Carolina and worked as a CNA in Henderson County. She was previously married to Larry W. Anderson of Marietta, S.C.
In addition to her parents she is also survived by her son, Marty; grandsons, Scotty and Trevor; great-granddaughters, Preslee and Paisley; many aunts, uncles and cousins.
A funeral will be at 11:00am, Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at Forest Lawn Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. David Stanford officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.
Please visit www.forestlawnhendersonville for online condolences.
Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

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James David “Jim” Parker, 64

James David “Jim” Parker, 64, loving husband, father and friend to so many passed away on December 26, 2016 at his son’s home in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He was surrounded by his loving family. He was the son of the late James Arthur and Mary Lee Rhodes Parker.
Born on September 24, 1952 in Henderson County, he spent most of his childhood there with his family in Edneyville, NC. Jim graduated from Cocoa High School in Florida, before moving back to North Carolina with his family in 1970, to attend barber school. After graduating from Durham Barber School and Roffler Academy in NC, he began working in Asheville and Brevard, until establishing “Hair Kutters” in Hendersonville, NC, an Apollo franchise. Jim served the community for more than 40 years with his caring, loving and “special gift” of who he was. He was an avid outdoors man, who enjoyed sharing those experiences with everyone who knew him.
The family extends its sincere appreciation and gratitude to the staff at Hendersonville Hematology & Oncology, particularly Dr. Radford. Their dedication enabled us to have the gift of more time with Jim.
He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia Taylor “Ginny” Parker, two sons, James Cameron Parker (wife Diane), and Cory Taylor Parker. He is also survived by his Aunt Betty Ann Griffin and several cousins.
In remembrance of Jim, live humbly and show compassion to all those who happen to cross your path in life. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Cancer Research Institute by visiting cancerresearch.org or to the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy by visiting carolinamountain.org.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, January 2, 2016 at the First Baptist Church of Hendersonville, located at 312 5th Ave W, Hendersonville, NC 28739.
An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors are in charge of the arrangements.

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Charlene A. Livingston, 66,

Charlene A. Livingston, 66, of Hendersonville, North Carolina, passed away on December 29, 2016, at The Elizabeth House, Flat Rock. She was born August 4, 1950 in Franklin County, Ohio, to Fries and Sara (Byers) Ferguson (both deceased). She married Larry Kirian on July 12, 1969 and they later divorced. She then married Stanley R. Livingston on November 28, 1992 and he survives. They had been married for 24 years.
In addition to her husband Charlene is survived by her daughter Brigette (Jim) Carpenter of Findlay, OH and her son Lyle (Clarice) Kirian of Travelers Rest, SC. Also surviving are her extended family Michele (Jeff) Fish of Canton, NC, Stacey Livingston and Henry Livingston, both of Hendersonville, NC; grandchildren, Ashleigh & Alyson Carpenter of Findlay, OH, Tyler Workman of Travelers Rest, SC, Ryan Workman of Charleston, SC, Cassandra (Ben) Tanner of Flowery Branch, GA, Samantha (Daniel) Rose of Flat Rock, NC, Kevin & Starr Fish of Canton, NC, and Beth Ellen & Autumn Livingston of Flat Rock, NC; and great-grandchildren, Abishai & Areli Tanner of Flowery Branch, GA. Additional sisters, nieces, and nephews and their families survive Charlene.
Charlene was a 1968 graduate of Elmwood High School in Cygnet, OH and attended Mercy Nursing School in Toledo, OH. Charlene held various positions during her professional career, some of which included being a nurse, secretary to the superintendent of Elmwood Schools, sales, owner/operator of Computer Training Associates, and co-owner of Livingston Properties LLC.
Jackson Funeral Home in Hendersonville will be handling the arrangements but visitation will take place at Mountain View Baptist Church in Tuxedo on Tuesday, January 3, 2017, from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm with the funeral services, officiated by Sherill Moore and Ben Tanner, immediately following the visitation. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The Elizabeth House, 581 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or to Po Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

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Miriam Clark Plexico, 95

Miriam Clark Plexico, age 95, and resident of Cardinal Care in Hendersonville, NC died December 29, 2016.Miriam was born November 22, 1921 in Hockessin, Delaware. She was the daughter of the late Reverend Claude Willard Clark and Carrie Curlett Clark. She and her husband, Reverend Clyde Plexico, Jr. were married for 55 years before his death on June 27, 1998.

Miriam was a 1942 graduate of Asheville College where she was involved in many student activities. She was elected to the Student Council, the YWCA Cabinet, President of the Campus Cooperative, Permanent President of the Senior Class, and a member of Who’s Who of American Colleges and Universities her junior and senior years. Her radio script “Asheville College Calls on You” was broadcast over all of Western North Carolina, and her radio play “Tolerance” won national recognition and awards.

Miriam was always active in the communities where her husband served churches. She organized and directed a child care center for her husband’s church, the Metairie Ridge Presbyterian Church in the greater New Orleans, La. Area; directed a government child development center for 100 children and with 25 staff in Georgia; was Educational Coordinator for Head Start for 16 counties in North Georgia; and became a Certified Children’s Protective Services worker with the South Carolina Department of Social Services until her retirement June 20, 1986.

Following her retirement and move to Hendersonville, Miriam became involved in many community activities, including: a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church where she was a Deacon for two terms and later a Ruling Elder; a court appointed Guardian Ad Litem for abused and neglected children; a member of the Family Selection Committee for Habitat for Humanity; a member and board member of the League of Women Voters; on the Advisory Board of Telemon Child Development Center; a member of the Board for Smart Start of Henderson County (appointed by the County Commissioners); Hendersonville Coalition Against Violence; numerous committees in the county for children; the Executive Board and past President of College Alumnae of Asheville Teacher’s College; and in 1996 she was chosen to carry the Olympic Flame and Torch as it went through Hendersonville.

Miriam is survived by two daughters, Sandie Salvaggio-Walker and Dale Scott, both of Hendersonville; one son, Clark Plexico of Hendersonville as well as Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. She has seven grandchildren: Bart Salvaggio and his wife Alisa; Dale Bradshaw and her husband Steve; and, Miriam Beaver and her husband Jim, all from Hendersonville, NC; Matthew Scott of Faison, NC; Hattie Plexico Sinclair of Istanbul, Turkey; Molly Plexico of Chiang Mai, Thailand; and, Jack Plexico of Raleigh, NC. In addition, she is survived by eleven great-grandchildren: Alex, Mia and Anna Salvaggio; Charlie and Sophia Bradshaw; David, Isaiah, and Samuel Beaver; Levi and Gabriel Scott; and, Henry Jack Sinclair.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 2, 2017 at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Hendersonville officiated by the Reverend Mark Stanley. She will be interred next to husband, Clyde, in Westlawn Presbyterian Cemetery in Sharon, SC.

In lieu of flowers the family would like donations to go to the Guardian Ad-Litem Program of Henderson County, in respect for Miriam’s many years as a passionate advocate for children and her work as a Guardian Ad-Litem, 1347 Spartanburg Highway, #5, Hendersonville, NC 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 the arrangements.

Plexico, Miriam OBIT PIC.jpg

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Henry “Tim” Snelson, 59

Henry “Tim” Snelson, age 59, passed away Thursday, December 8th, 2016 at the Elizabeth House following a brief period of illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry K. Snelson and Patricia A. Forrister Snelson.

Tim graduated from West Henderson High School in 1976 and received his degree in heating, air conditioning and refrigeration from and later taught at Blue Ridge Community College. He was most recently employed as a technical support supervisor for the southeast with Baker Distribution. He was a member of Living Water Baptist Church for the past five years.

He is survived by his five children, Derrick Snelson and his wife, Holly, Amber Snelson, Jenna Strawser and her husband, Scott, Rianne Greene and Jaimee Snelson-Burns and her husband, David; a special grandson whom he helped rear, Quinton Gamble; grandchildren, Kaylee, Kiara, Caitlyn, Connor, Ella, Raiden, Madelynn and Madison; one great-granddaughter, Kenly Dawn Gamble; two sisters, Cassandra Jamerson and her husband, Danny and Karen Kissick; one brother, Michael Snelson; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 7th, 2016 at Living Water Baptist Church.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 1:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Tim’s memory may be directed to the Elizabeth House, 571 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731; or to Living Water Baptist Church, 1284 Sugarloaf Road, Hendersonville, NC 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 the arrangements.

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Linda Louise Hingentiz, 66

Linda Louise Hingentiz, 66 of Flat Rock passed away Thursday December 08, 2016 at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.
A native of Henderson county, she was the daughter of the late Clyde and Margaret Ballard Hill. She was married to Henry Hingentiz for over 40 years prior to his death earlier this year. She was preceded in death by her brother Michael Hill.
She was a family nurse practitioner, having worked many years at the Henderson County health department and currently worked at The Laurel OB - GYN. She was a member of East Flat Rock First Baptist church and loved singing in the choir.
She will however be best remembered as a loving wonderful mother.
Survivors include, one son Joseph Edward Hingentiz and his wife Ashley, one granddaughter Ryker, who is arriving any day now and a niece Melissa Barnwell and her family of Hendersonville.
A memorial service will be held Friday December 16, 2016 at 7:30 pm at East Flat Rock First Baptist Church, with the Rev. Jeff Nelands officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 6 PM until service time at the church.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or to Po Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

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John W. Murray 74

John W. Murray 74, of Flat Rock went to join his parents, John and Glenna Nash Murray of Hendersonville, NC, and his brothers, Roy, Gary, Harold and Ricky in their Heavenly home.
Surviving John is his wife Sarah McMinn Murray of 43 years, and his (4) children Angela Murray of Hendersonville NC, Mark Murray of Horse Shoe, NC, Tammy Pruitt of Travelers Rest, SC and Melissa Murray of Hendersonville, NC, and their spouses, a sister Geneva Buley of Hendersonville, NC, a brother Wayne Murray of Hendersonville, NC. John was blessed with 5 beautiful grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

John’s passion was music. He was a member of The Mountain Singers, a gospel music band, his brother Roy started many years ago with other family members. John sung and played the Dobro with the band. John loved his many family members and sponsored the Murray, Nash, Glenn and Bracket reunion for 15 years; He was also the North American Commissioner for Clan Murray and opened the Highland games at Grand Father Mountain for 20 years.John also loved helping children, and was a member of Saluda Masonic Lodge for many years.

John has plans in Heaven, they are to pursue his musical talents as a member of Heavens Band, and fish the Jordan River with his Master, rest by the Tree of Life and finish a genealogy chapter with family and friends from the beginning of time. John never met a stranger and had an uncanny way of making everyone feel at home.

We will celebrate John’s life here Tuesday December 13, 2016 at 2 PM at The Chapel in the Pines of Jackson Funeral Service. Pastor Scott Pace and Pastor James Maybin will deliver the message to family and friends “ Hold on tight to the Heavenly Father, follow his light, and let him lead and direct your life! John will be looking and waiting for you.
His earthly remains will be placed at Forest Lawn for Safe Keeping. The family will receive friends on Monday night from 6 pm to 8 pm in the chapel.
Adam Murray, Tracy Sherman, Roy Murray Jr, Jonathan Martin, Ethan Pace, Holden Pace, Jadon Pace and Jesse Murray will serve as pall bearers.
In Lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Shriners Hospital for Children, Greenville, SC at the following website: www.Shrinershospitals.org/Donate.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

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Ian Ryan Phillips, 24

Ian Ryan Phillips
Staff Sergeant Ian Ryan Phillips, 24, died unexpectedly on Friday, December 2, 2016 in
Elk City, Oklahoma due to injuries incurred in an automobile accident. He was born on
November 12, 1992 in Hendersonville, NC to Gary and Denise Phillips.
Ian was a graduate of West Henderson High School in Hendersonville, NC, as well as
the University of Maryland University College (UMUC) where he studied Information
Systems Management. He recently became stationed at Altus Air Force Base in Altus,
Oklahoma and worked as a Client Systems Tech. His previous USAF base assignments
included RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk, England and Ramstein Air Base in Rhineland-
Palatinate, Germany where he met and married his loving wife, Lisa Marie Phillips, on
February 12, 2016.
He leaves behind his wife, Lisa Phillips, who is originally of Tulare, California, his
parents, Gary and Denise Phillips, of Etowah, NC, his grandmother, Joan Phillips, of
Etowah, NC, his sister, Lauren Phillips, of Asheville, NC and his sister, April Creel, of
Lakewood Ranch, Florida.
Ian was extremely blessed by family and friends who loved him dearly. His career in
the United States Air Force provided him with life experiences beyond his dreams. His
ever-present smile and terrific sense of humor made it obvious that he was a happy
young man. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. He claimed Christ as his
Savior and was growing in his faith. We know that Jesus is preparing a place for Ian,
and we long for the day when we see him again.
A memorial service for Ian is scheduled at 3pm on Saturday, December 17, 2016 at the
Hendersonville Seventh-day Adventist Church, 2301 Asheville Highway,
Hendersonville, NC 28791. Jackson Funeral Services is in charge of the arrangements.
The family would like to express its sincere gratitude for the outpouring of love and
support they have received during this time. They continue to thank God for giving them
His strength to endure. Psalm 18:1

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Robert Michael Dennis, 81

Robert Michael Dennis, 81, of Hendersonville, NC passed away Monday, December 5, 2016 at his home.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Marie Gorman Dennis, his two wives, Jeanella and Sharon, a brother, Jerry and two sisters, Suzanne and Cecile.
He grew up in Washington, DC and attended St. Teresa School.
He served in the US Marine Corps.
Bob was an avid sports fan. He loved the Washington Redskins, the Washington Nationals, the University of Maryland Terps, and local sports.
He was a faithful Catholic and was a member at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church and was a member of the Knights of Columbus.
He was a member of the Hendersonville Elks Lodge #1616, the V.F.W. Post and the American Legion.
He is survived by a daughter, Suzanne Celtrick of Hendersonville; a son, Michael Dennis of Frederick, Maryland; five grandchildren, Sean, Rebecca, Marley, Octavia and Jeanella; eight siblings, Renee, Jimmy, Ronnie, Lynn, Jean, Cristine, Donna and Ann; several nieces and nephews and his canine companion, Spider.
A funeral service will be held at 10AM Monday, December 12th at the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church. Condolence cards may be sent to the family at PO Box 1536 Mountain Home, NC 28758.

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Annie “Luree” Daniels, 90

Annie “Luree” Daniels, 90, died peacefully at The Laurels of Hendersonville on Sunday, December 4, 2016 after a brief illness.

Ms. Daniels was born March 9, 1926 in Hendersonville to the late Alanzo Theophilus and Lenora Israel Sistare. She was a graduate of Greenwood High School, Class of 43. She married Alvin Vance “AV” Daniels, and began her married life as a homemaker, and later, loving mother, in Greenwood, South Carolina. Returning to Hendersonville in 1956, her small family of four welcomed many foster children into their home over the next several years. Ms. Daniels became a tireless caregiver to her chronically ill husband until his passing in 1978. She was fortunate to be able to share the last 32 years of her life with her adoring companion, Mr. Carl Taylor. After returning to school and obtaining her real estate license later in life, she and Mr. Taylor worked together for many years selling homes and welcoming newcomers to their community.

So many benefited from Ms. Daniels’ sweet nature, compassionate heart and giving spirit during her life. Her family (both those related by blood and those who were not), her animals, her gardens, all flourished under her care. Mother Theresa said “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness: Kindness in your face, Kindness in your eyes, Kindness in your smile”. Anyone who ever saw her smile, most certainly left her presence better and happier.

In addition to her long-time companion, Ms. Daniels is survived by her daughters, Debbie Brevard and Pattie Owen and son-in-law Larry Owen; grandchildren, Tammy Brevard, Tina Brevard, Dena Wolfe, and Angie Owen-Killar; and great-grandchildren, Brandon Brevard, Blake and Savannah Morgan, Hunter Elms, Ethan and Rebecca Wolfe, and Katy and Ben Killar. Along with her loving husband, she was preceded one brother, Leon Sistare, two sisters, Lucy Taylor and Louise Jordan, and her son-in-law Larry T. Brevard.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, December 7, 2016 at Jacksons Funeral Service Chapel in the Pines with Rev. Gene Lockaby officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 12:30PM. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ms. Daniel’s life.

Memorial contributions may be made in her honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org or by mail to 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Dr. Randy Tryon and to the caring staff at The Laurels of Hendersonville.

Jacksons Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

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Sondra Scott Trantham, 73

Sondra Scott Trantham, 73 of Laurel Park died Friday, December 2, 2016 at Pardee Hospital. She was born in Florence, SC, a daughter of the late Otis Kinloch “O.K.” Scott and Ida Monetta Lawrence Scott. She moved to Hendersonville with her family in 1948. An active member of First Presbyterian Church, she became a charter and active member of Covenant Presbyterian Church.

Sondra was a 36-year breast cancer survivor, the epitome of a true Southern lady – always dutiful, strong, gracious and steadfast. Her love was serving others, whether at home, church, or in the community. Her joy was in her husband, daughters, grandchildren and extended family. Her life was an example to all, of her love for the Lord our God.

She will be dearly missed by her husband of 53 years, Jack Trantham; two daughters Amanda Trantham Morgan and husband, Roy of Banner Elk and Monetta Trantham Collie and husband, Page of Hendersonville; her grandchildren Virginia, Katherine, and Jackson Morgan, and Isaac, Ingram, and Camden Collie; one sister Linda Scott Riddle and husband Sam of Hendersonville; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.

A memorial service celebrating Sondra’s life will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, December 9, at Covenant Presbyterian Church. Rev. Steve Mirich will officiate. The family will receive friends from 11:30 until 1:00pm at the church prior to the service. She will be laid to rest in the Lawrence Family Cemetery in Elim, SC at 1:00pm on Saturday, December 10.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in her memory to Covenant Presbyterian Church, 2101 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville, NC 28739.

To offer online condolences, visit www.shulerfuneralhome.com. Shuler Funeral Home is assisting the family.

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Darrell Lee Gray,

Darrell Lee Gray, musician and proud veteran, died peacefully in his sleep on November 16, 2016, at his home in Hendersonville, North Carolina. He was 69 years old.
Darrell was born November 6, 1947, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Robert and Margaret Gray. His family also lived in Greenville, South Carolina; Newark, New Jersey; Wayne, Michigan; and Charleston, West Virginia, where he enjoyed watching the tugboats on the Kanawha River as he and his brother crossed the bridge to their paper routes.

The family then moved to the Thomasboro neighborhood of Charlotte in 1961, where he was active in Boy Scouts, adopting his trademark campaign hat. After graduating from West Mecklenburg High School in 1965, and attending Bob Jones University for a time, Darrell entered the U. S. Army, serving in Viet Nam with the Fifth Infantry Division.

Already an accomplished musician, playing cornet and baritone horn in the high school concert band, Darrell took up the stand-up bass as a founding member and official Ditch Wizard of the bluegrass band Chicken Hot Rod. The group was a regular at Charlotte’s Muther’s Coffeehouse, gathering place for a still-thriving folk/rock/acoustic music community.

Darrell also attended Central Piedmont Community College and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he received a B.A. in English. He went on to work at Queens University of Charlotte, supervising student publications, and later at Central Piedmont Community College where he managed student activities. In the mid-'90s he gained certification as a respiratory therapist and worked for years in home health care.
Music continued to be a big part of Darrell’s life and he played with many groups in the Charlotte area -- the
Kilocycle Kowboys, the Roustabouts, Blue Denim, and the Red Ball Ranch Hands, to name a few. He moved to Asheville in 2002 and very quickly found musical friends there, playing bass, dobro, and lap steel in informal jams and with the Moon Pie Rustlers.

As his health declined, he and his little dog Dixie moved to Willow Springs Assisted Living in Hendersonville.

Darrell will be remembered for his kind spirit, his quiet intelligence, his subtle and acute sense of humor, and his deep loyalty to his many friends.

Darrell is survived by his brother, Jerry Duane Gray, of Kinston. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his sister, Cheryl Ann Gray Lemmond. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 1, at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 962 Old US Hwy 70, Black Mountain.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to an organization of your choice in Darrell’s name.
Jackson Funeral Service is serving the Gray family.

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Edwin Allen Andreotta

Edwin Allen Andreotta heard the gates of heaven latch closed behind him
Saturday evening, November 26, 2016 at 9:22 PM at the Charles George VA
Medical Center, Valor Hospice. He was born in East Hartford, Ct., the
youngest of five children. He served his country in the United States
Marine Corps during World War II. He was part of the occupation of
Saipan, and among the first boots on the ground after the atomic bomb
was dropped on Nagasaki. He relocated to North Carolina in the early
1960's, and remained a resident until his passing.

He is survived by his three children, June Rusconi of Florida, Karen
Bentley of Ohio, And Daniel Andreotta of North Carolina, numerous
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and loving friends.
A celebration of life service with full military honors will be held on
Wednesday November 30 at Balfour Methodist Church at 12:00 noon. The
family will receive friends for one hour prior to service in the church.
In lieu of
flowers, memorials may be made to the Charles George VA Medical Center
Valor Hospice.
Jacksons Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

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Lolita June Bauer, 96

Lolita June Bauer, age 96, of Hendersonville passed away Wednesday, November 23rd, 2016 in the presence of family. She was born September 14th, 1920 in Chicago, IL; a daughter of the late Walter and Lillian Johnson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Frederick A. Bauer in 2010, her sister, Laverne Lavers; and by her son-in-law, William Shumway.

Lolita was loved throughout her life and was a valued member of her community. She was employed by United Airlines in Chicago for many years; she retired from her position of executive secretary at the United Airlines corporate headquarters. She also served as a volunteer leader and fundraiser for the Lutheran General Hospital and as a church member and volunteer at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Park Ridge, IL. She was fortunate enough to travel the world with her beloved husband, Fred, and to have spent many wonderful retirement years in Florida following their lives together in Chicago. She had a sunny and cheerful way about her that brightened each and every day. She never knew a stranger.

She is survived by her daughter, Patricia Ann Bauer Shumway of Hendersonville; her three grandchildren and their families; Christopher Shumway, with his wife Christina and their children Noah, Madisyn and Hayley of Hendersonville; Cynthia Shumway Jerome with her husband Michael and their children Luke, Lauren and Katie of Lakeville, MN; Stephen Shumway, his wife Lauri and their children Andrew and Daniel of Tomah, WI; and by Patricia’s in-laws Jean and Jack Shumway of Columbus, NC.

Services will be private.

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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Sylvia Marie Poplin

Sylvia Marie Poplin, after living 60 years on this earth, went
home to be with Jesus on November 23, 2016. Despite living the last
45 years as a quadriplegic she worked, was a homemaker and raised two
wonderful daughters: Rachel Hope Buck and Amanda Louise Poplin and had
two beautiful grandchildren: Evey Grace and Sebastian Orion. Sylvia
Poplin was married to the absolute luckiest man on earth, me, Johnny
Lee Poplin. Sylvia was an active member of Double Springs Baptist,
Church in Zirconia, NC, she took pride in mailing cards those who were
in need. She was an inspiration to her family, friends, church brothers
and sisters as well as anyone fortunate enough to have known her.
Sylvia you will be missed extremely, but our lost is Heavens gain. Until
we see you again, Love.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM at Double Springs Baptist Church Sunday, November 27th.

Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

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Joe Gillan

Father. Patriot. Believer.

Those are the words Joe Gillan lived by until the very last day of his life, on October 27th, 2016.

Born in Amsterdam, New York in 1940, Joseph Anthony Gillan was devoted to his three siblings: Mary “Dolly”, Gary “Bink” and surviving sister, Sheila. Joe’s father, Frank, passed away when Joe was a teen. Joe’s mother, Marie, kept the family together through many challenging years.

Not content to wait for his number to be called, Joe voluntarily enlisted during the Vietnam War. To those who did not come home, he still wants you to know, “You are not forgotten.”

He saw his greatest job as being father to Elizabeth Marie (Gary), Katherine Jane (Tommy), and Jennifer Ann (Jim). More blessings followed with his six grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Joe remained grateful to his former wife, Mary (Craig) Gillan, for the partnership they shared raising their three daughters.

For many years, Joe worked at Exxon, retiring after serving as a lobbyist in Washington, DC. Despite the fancy title, Joe liked to wear jeans and cowboy boots, eat a lot of pizza, watch baseball, and act irreverent with his friends. He was quite good at that.

Faith. Catholicism instilled at birth never left Joe. His devotion stood as the inspiration for many years of volunteer work with charities for intellectually challenged people. He searched his own soul, and tried every day of his life to live up to the promise of God. He would’ve told you that it was a hard thing to do. He never stopped trying.

Running was his thing. Joe finished many marathons, and even in the days leading up to his death, he recorded in his calendar all of his exercise routines. The author of two books, Joe recently started his third novel. Writing fueled his passionate search for beauty in this world. No doubt he is pounding away on his laptop from above.

A memorial mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 5th, at Immaculate Conception Church, in Hendersonville, North Carolina

A funeral mass is scheduled for 11:15 am at St. Mary’s Church, 156 East Main St., Amsterdam, NY 12010. Inurnment will follow at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville, NY 12871.

Memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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

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Clinton Ward Riser, 92

Clinton Ward Riser, Jr. age 92, of Hendersonville died Friday, October 21st, 2016 from complications of pneumonia. Mr. Riser was born in Little Mountain, SC; a son of the late, C.W. Riser, Sr. a SC superintendent of schools and Louise Mayes Reid Riser, a teacher and gifted seamstress.

He grew up in Columbia, SC and resided in Hendersonville for eighteen years. Mr. Riser, a Textile Chemist, had a lengthy career working with such notable industry names as Wrangler, Burlington, Cannon Mills, Maidenform, L’Eggs, Dalton Carpets, Lee and many more. He graduated from Clemson University on the G.I. Bill after service in WWII as a Lieutenant and Bombardier in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He often regaled family with stories of target practice, using bags of flour and sand and once narrowly missing a courthouse. The most famous story was of the day he asked if anyone in the barracks knew a good looking girl he could write to. A Savannah recruit stepped up to the challenge with a yearbook photo but said he would have to censor the letter as the girl’s father was a police lieutenant. That beautiful girl, Anne Lively, turned out to become his wife. The stream of letters began in July, 1943, and the ceremony was held December 3rd, the day after he saw her for the first time.

Mr. Riser was an avid student of life, with a love of history, books, and jazz. He could hold discourse on most every subject and had a gift for jokes.

He is survived by his daughters, Pamela Marks and Rebecca Avery; one son, Glenn Reid Riser; grandchildren, April, Steven, Peter, Catherine, John, Michael, Emily and William; great-grandchildren, Evelyn, Milo, Meredith and Scott; and one nephew, Robert Ayer. He will be sorely missed by family and by those who crossed his path.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 3rd, 2016 at Grace Lutheran Church, Hendersonville, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Hendersonville Rescue Mission, 639 Maple Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792.

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

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Joseph “Joe” Gernoske, 78

Joseph “Joe” Gernoske, age 78, of Hendersonville died Sunday, November 20th, 2016 at his home. Joe was born in Two Rivers, Wisconsin; a son of the late, Joseph and Tillie Gernoske. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Carol Conway Gernoske who died in 1969.

Although Joe had a successful business career including serving as a Production Manager for General Mills in the 1960’s and 1970’s, he proclaimed that his life really began when he and his wife, Ginny relocated to Black Mountain in Western North Carolina in 1992. He and Ginny joined the Presbyterian Faith in PCUSA at Black Mountain Presbyterian Church in 1993. After serving in leadership roles at church, Presbytery, serving on Evangelism Committee, two terms as a Dean of Presbytery Leadership School and on the Commission Lay Pastor Task Force, he was led to being a Volunteer Chaplain at the V.A. Hospital in Asheville in 1998. While serving at the hospital he found his comfort in being with patients on a one on one basis and acquired a passion for helping those afflicted with mental illness. That passion combined with his MBA degree and business experience resulted in his being the Founding Board Chairperson of Thrive in 2006. Joe also served as Facilitator for NAMI, a support group for those who have family members suffering with mental illness.

His love for helping other people was also shown while he served as president of the Westgate Optimist Club in Toledo and as president of the Kiwanis Club in Black Mountain. Joe will be remembered as being compassionate, spiritual, sensitive to others feelings, tender hearted, a counselor, accepting people as they are, a problem solver, and knowledgeable. He was laid back and even tempered; he was always looking for the best in a person (finding something to love), was hard working, had a huge heart for the mentally ill, was a loyal friend, had a different sense of humor, he was thoughtful, methodical, a negotiator and loved numbers.

He liked to watch the wonders of the world, talk and read. He enjoyed a fire in the fireplace, sitting on the front porch, paddle boating, hors d’oeuvres and wine on Lake Lure. He studied through video lectures, books and seminars on all of his passions. Joe assumed the pastoral staff position of Parish Visitor at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Hendersonville in 2003 and continued in that position until his retirement in 2015.

Joe is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ginny; one son, David of Newport, NC; two grandchildren, Carolyn Knebl of Shreveport, LA and Matthew of Newport, NC; one great-grandchild, Cole Knebl of Shreveport, LA.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 2nd, 2016 at Trinity Presbyterian Church officiated by the Reverend Mark Stanley and Reverend Bobbi White.

The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s memory may be directed to THRIVE, 522 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville, NC 28739; Henderson County Animal Services, 828 Stoney Mountain Road, Hendersonville, NC 28791; or to Four Seasons Hospice, 581 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

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

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Jennifer B. Blake, 43

Jennifer B. Blake, 43, of Etowah, passed away Friday, November 25, 2016 after a long battle with cancer.
She is survived by her parents, Richard and Beverly D. Blake; children, David and Krystal Prado and siblings, Phillip Blake and Krystal Elliott of Statesville.
A graveside service will be held Sunday, December 4th at 2:00 PM at Oakdale Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Four Seasons Hospice is requested.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or to Po Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

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Isabelle Jackson Lyda Nix, 87

Isabelle Jackson Lyda Nix, 87, of Edneyville, NC passed away Saturday, November 26, 2016 at the Brian Center.

She was the daughter of the late Fred and Ethel Jackson and
was also preceded in death by her husbands, Herman Lyda and Alfred Nix;
two sons, Frank and Tony Lyda; a granddaughter and grandson-in-law,
Ginny and Brad Singleton; three brothers and one sister.

She was an apple grower, flower grower, member of the
Henderson County Curb Market and a lifetime member of Mountain Home
Baptist Church.

She is survived by a daughter, Linda Floyd and her husband
Robert of Edneyville; a daughter-in-law, Peggy Lyda of Edneyville; a
step-son, Michael Nix and his wife Joyce of Monet, Missouri; four
grandchildren, Tonya Eastman, Wendy Spanbauer and her husband Scott,
Rachel Hall and her husband Tadd and Jack Lyda and his wife Emily;
thirteen great grandchildren; K.W. Wright whom she regarded as her son;
several nieces and nephews and her loving church family.

A funeral service will be held 1:00 PM Tuesday, November 29th at
Mountain Home Baptist Church with Rev. Craig Garren officiating.
Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mountain Home
Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, PO Box 288, Edneyville, NC 28727.

The family would like to gratefully acknowledge the staff of Brian Center.

Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

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