John Littlefield Crawford, 97

John Littlefield Crawford, 97 of Franklin, NC passed away peacefully on March 30, 2016. A native of Macon County, he was the son of the late John L. Crawford and Annie Crawford Higdon and stepfather Alfred R. Higdon. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister‑in law Doris Hudson.
He attended UNC Chapel Hill where he met his future wife Dorothy Rose whom he married on March 12, 1942 in Victoria, TX where he was a pilot in the US Army Air Corps during WW II.
He was in flight training at Goodfellow Field, San Angelo, TX on Pearl Harbor Day. Following basic flight training, he went on to advanced flight training in fighter planes. After receiving his wings and commissioned as a 2LT in the Army Air Corps, he became an instructor in advanced flight training school for fighter pilots, training not only American pilots, but many allied pilots from Turkey, Bolivia, Peru, France, and other countries. Although he requested overseas action as a fighter pilot, he was told he was more valuable as an instructor so he remained at Moore Field, Mission TX, moving up the chain of command from Assistant Squadron Commander all the way to Group Commander. A member of the “Greatest Generation”, he helped close Moore Field following the end of WW II and was discharged from active duty. He remained active in the Army Air Corp Reserves and later the US Air Force Reserves until retiring from the reserves as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1969.
Following the war, he returned to Franklin and worked for his step‑father for many years at Franklin Hardware which he closed in 1962 following Mr. Higdon’s death. He became a permanent letter carrier for the US Postal Service in 1956 from which he retired in 1984. He was active in the American Legion serving as various officers including Commander in 1954‑55. For several years he was a director of the Bank of Franklin which later became First Union. He was a former member of the Lion’s Club, a member of the Masonic Lodge, and Chamber of Commerce, and Volunteer Fire Department serving as an officer of the last three organizations. He was a charter member of the Franklin Gem and Mineral Society and the Macon County Cultural Arts Council. In recognition of extraordinary service to Macon County, along with his wife Dorothy, the Macon County Senior Services Center was renamed the Dorothy R. and John L. Crawford Senior Center.
He was a founding and active member of the Franklin Church of Christ serving as an elder.
Survivors include his loving wife of over 74 years Dorothy Rose Crawford, sons John L Crawford, III and wife Donna of Flat Rock, NC; Thomas R. Crawford and wife Jae of Sylva, NC; seven grandchildren Caroline Heubel and husband John of Ft. Mill, SC; Robert Crawford of Charlotte, NC; Molly Moore and husband Parker of Washington, DC; Kate Fuquay and husband Jason of NY City; Thomas R. Crawford, Jr and wife Michelle of Chapel Hill; Kathryn McMillan and husband Tom of Port St. Lucie, FL; Holly Conlin and husband Scott of Sylva; fifteen great‑grandchildren; sisters Julia Green of Burlington, NC, and Beverly Moore of Franklin; brothers Alfred Higdon and wife Ann of Atlanta, and Thomas Higdon and wife Patricia of Las Cruces, NM; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at the Franklin Church of Christ, 90 McCollum Drive on Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 2:30 pm with Minister Radford Penland officiating. Pallbearers will be John Heubel, Robert Crawford, Thomas Crawford, Jr., Benn Grant III, Ben Swafford, and Carey Patton, Jr., Jacob Stewart and Donald Fisher. The family will receive friends at the church from 1:00 ‑ 2:30 pm, prior to the service. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery with Military Rights.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Franklin Church of Christ McCollum Drive Scholarship Endowment, and mail to: North Carolina Community Foundation, 4601 Six Forks Road‑Suite 525, Raleigh, NC 26609, or donate on line: www.nccommunityfoundation.org or contributions to Angel Medical Center Foundation, PO Box 1209, Franklin, NC 28734, or to one’s favorite charity.
Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences are available at bryantgrantfuneralhome.com.

Read More »

John Martin Curtis, 92

John Martin Curtis, 92 of Mills River passed away Saturday March 26, 2016 at the Elizabeth House.
He was the son of the late Dewey and Frances Curtis and husband of the late Virginia McGrath Curtis who died in 2000. He was preceded in death by two sisters.
A US Army veteran, he was a member of the 101ST Airborne, and had received the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Distinguished Service Metal and Presidential Citation for Meritorious Service. He was an avid bowler and fisherman. He loved baseball and was a huge Duke fan.
Survivors include one son, Michael Curtis and his wife Linda of Mills River, two daughters, Jean Foster and her husband Donnie of Liverpool, NY and Christine Edwards of Hendersonville, one sister Joan Tetrault of NY, eight grandchildren, Teresa Curtis, Zack and his wife Telisha Curtis, Dillon Curtis, Kelly Green and her husband Josh, Cameron Edwards and Gina Clayton and five great grandchildren.
No service is planned.
Memorials may be made to: Four Seasons Compassion for Life; 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.
Jackson Funeral Service is assisting the Curtis family.

Read More »

Ellen Julia Lance, 71

Ellen Julia Lance, 71, of Hendersonville, NC, died peacefully on March 19th with hospice and her sister by her side. Ellen was born in Reading, PA to the late Floyd Leighton Lance and Kathryn Mohn Lerch Lance. She attended Wyomissing High School and in her Junior year went to the Charles E. Ellis School for Girls where she graduated in 1965.
She started her long career as a nurse’s aid at St. Joseph's Hospital, but in October 1967 she joined the United States Army stationed at Ft Bragg, Fayetteville, NC. There she trained as a Dental Hygienist receiving several certificates of appreciation and achievements before her honorable discharge as a Specialist E5 three years later. The next several decades she worked for various printing companies, including the print department at Fayetteville State University. She loved running the various printing presses, and was especially gifted at color separation. Beginning in early Jan 1995 Ellen was trained and became a certified Hospice Nurses Aid for the New Jersey State Nurses Association. There she was rewarded a Certificate of Appreciation for her hard work and dedication to her patients, whom she loved dearly. In the year 2000 she retired, moving to her home in the mountains of Hendersonville, NC.
Ellen adored her wild birds, photography, camping and ocean fishing, genealogy, being generous of her time with her friends, tooling leather, woodturning and gardening.
Surviving are her sister Sandra L. Lance and her husband Frank E. Wolf of Ripton, VT, an elderly Aunt Polly Lerch Lehman and cousin John Lehman of Wyomissing, Pa , a cousin Kathy Coyle Guenter and her husband George from the Philadelphia area, and a dear cousin Barbara Lance Ruth of Greensboro, NC.
A celebration of Ellen's life will be held at a later at her home. Ellen asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Blue Ridge Humane Society no kill animal shelter at 88 Centipede Ln, Hendersonville, NC, the Charles George Veterans Hospital, 1100 Tunnel Rd., Ashville, NC 28805, or the Four Seasons Hospice, 571 S. Allen Rd., Flat Rock, NC.
Arrangements are by the Jackson Funeral Home, Hendersonville.

Read More »

Minty Lucile Howard, 76

Minty Lucile Howard, 76, of Dana, NC went to be with the Lord, Tuesday, March 22, 2016.
She was a native and lifelong resident of Henderson County and was the daughter of the late David and Eula Stepp Carlisle.

She was a lifelong member of Refuge Baptist Church. She worked at Ingles for the past 15 years and had volunteered for Meals on Wheels.
She loved to bowl and work in her garden.

She is survived by her son, Kevin Howard of Marion, NC; a granddaughter, Tiffany Mosley of Hendersonville and four nephews, Troy, Danny, Darren and David. She is also survived by her Ingle’s Family and many friends.
A funeral service will be held 2PM Monday at Refuge Baptist Church with Rev. Roy Perry officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church and at other times will be at the home.
Flowers can be sent to the funeral home or donations may be made to Refuge Baptist Church.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or to PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

Read More »

Eloise Whitaker Praytor, 88

Eloise Whitaker Praytor, age 88 of Mills River went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 22nd, 2016 at the Elizabeth House. She was born on September 27th, 1927 in Akron, Ohio; a daughter of the late Lloyd Riley Whitaker and Viva Marie Parker Whitaker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Liston Praytor in 2006; and her sister, Margaret Bryson.

Her family returned to Mills River during the Depression. She was reared in Mills River and was a member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church. She loved nature, hiking and gardening.

She is survived by her three children, Roanell Praytor Hardin, Jerry Lee Praytor and his wife, Jane and Robert Liston Praytor and his wife, Mary; nine grandchildren, Jimmy and David Hardin, Shannon Lynn Hamby, Candy Goings, Laurana Smith, Jason Lee Praytor, Rachel Tabor, Austin Praytor and Ashley Gilliam; nine great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and her three sisters, Thelma Case, Norma Jean Miller and Viola Sitton.

The Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 25th, 2016 at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church conducted by the Reverend Robert Ponder. Burial will follow the service in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends this evening, Thursday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Home.

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.

Read More »

Benjamin Hardy Freeman, 75

Benjamin Hardy Freeman, 75, of Hendersonvile, passed away Monday, March 21, 2016.
He was a native of Henderson County and the son of the late Paul and Agnes Freeman. He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Jack Ludolph.
Benjamin served in the U.S. Airforce for four years and retired from the Henderson County Sheriff’s Department. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Hendersonville.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy Freeman; daughters, Susan Freeman and Sherri Holbert and husband Rick; son, Mark Freeman and wife Emily; step-daughters, Laura Freeman and Allyson Myers and husband Graham; step-son, Eric Weaver and wife Evelyn; sister, Donna Ludolph; and nine grandchildren.
A memorial service will be 10:00 am, Thursday, March 24, 2016 in the Kirby Chapel of Shuler Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Ralls officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office STAR Program (Sheriff’s Teaching Abuse Resistance), 100 North Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792. This program is being taught to Henderson County 5th graders by school Resource Deputies and school health nurses.
To offer online condolences, please visit www.shulerfuneralhome.com.
Shuler Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Read More »

Charles Buddy Wilkie, 79

Charles Buddy Wilkie, 79, of Hendersonville went home to be with the Lord on Friday, March 18, 2016.
Born in Henderson County, he was the son of the late Joe and Nena Wilkie. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Dorothy Staton, and four brothers, JB, Norman, Buck and Billy Wilkie. Before retiring, Charles was employed by Fletcher Brick Company for 43 years.
Charles is survived by his three children, Brenda Estrada (Augustine), Robert Wilkie, and Terri Clark (Kip); two grandchildren, Marcus Wilkie (Shannon) and Leticia Wilkie; three great-grandchildren, Carson, Haleigh and Shelby; extended family to whom we owe many thanks, Polly, Carolyn, Kristen and Jade; three sisters, Ailene West (Ken), Betty Griffin (Larry) and Louise Cox (Bobby); and two brothers, Wendell Wilkie (Dorothy) and Gene Wilkie (Cathy).
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 am Friday, March 25, 2016 at Truth Missionary Baptist Church. The Reverend Don Birchfield will officiate. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
Memorials may be made to Four Seasons Compassion for Life or to the American Heart Association at www.tmcfunding.org.
To offer online condolences, please visit www.shulerfuneralhome.com. Shuler Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Read More »

Thomas Eugene “Gene” Franks

Thomas Eugene “Gene” Franks, 81, of East Flat Rock went to be with his Heavenly Father in his permanent home, walking the streets of gold with his daughter Renee, on March 15, 2016. Born in Glenville, he was a son of the late Leroy Filmore and Martha Elizabeth Bentley Franks. He was also preceded in death by three brothers, Shirley, Fred, and Ray; and two sisters, Mildred and Ruth.
Gene was drafted by the Marines in 1953, after which he worked as a truck driver. During this time, he met his wife, Louise and they were married September 9, 1956. Later they moved to Austel, GA where he worked as a police officer and prison guard. Twelve years later they moved to Hendersonville where he worked as an instructor at Blanton Truck Driving School. Later he worked at and retired from AmeriGas. He was a member of Hendersonville First Church of the Nazarene.
Gene will be remembered by his family with smiles, as he always had a smile for everyone, never holding a grudge, and was a friend to all.
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Louise; his sons, Tim (Angie) Franks, Chris (Joelle) Franks, and Kerry (Suzette) Franks; his daughter Denya (Sam) Stanchak (twin to Renee); seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and one sister, Dot Bryson.
Funeral services will be at 11am Saturday, March 19, 2016 at Hendersonville First Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. Sherman Waters officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Military graveside rites will be conducted at Forest Lawn Memorial Park following the service.
Cards may be mailed to Louise Franks at Cherry Springs, 358 Clear Creek Road, Room 38A, Hendersonville, NC 28792. Please visit forestlawnhendersonville.com for online condolences.
Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Read More »

William M. Merwitzer, 75

William M. Merwitzer, age 75 of Hendersonville died Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at his residence. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; son of Helen Kramer Merwitzer of Miami, FL and the late Charles S. Merwitzer.

William received his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Duquesne University and proudly served in the United States Coast Guard. He was a Rotarian and had a special interest in the Alzheimer’s Association and was associated with Business Network International (BNI). He was a member of the Agudas Israel Congregation.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife of 28 years, Eydie Merwitzer; two sons, Craig Merwitzer and his wife, Roseann and Ken Merwitzer and his wife, Tracie all of Miami, FL; daughter, Randi Silverberg and her husband, Stephen of Miramar, FL; two step-sons, Jeffrey Marmins and his wife, Liz of Folsom, CA and David Marmins and his wife, Amanda of Atlanta, GA; brother, Robert Merwitzer and his wife, Belle of Scottsdale, AZ; and his sister, Marji Rudolph and her husband, Allen of Miami, FL; grandchildren, Justin, Mark, Samantha, Noah and Evan Merwitzer, Marty and Ian Silverberg, Alec, Tatum, Hannah, and Cole Marmins.

The Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 20, 2016 at Agudas Israel Synagogue, 505 Glasgow Lane, Hendersonville, NC 28739, conducted by Rabbi Rachel Jackson. Burial will follow in Shepherd Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in William’s memory be directed to City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010 or online at www.cityofhope.org.

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.

Read More »

Clyde Stanley Bayne, age 97

Clyde Stanley Bayne, age 97, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Monday morning
March 14, 2016 at The Laurels of Hendersonville. Clyde was a native and longtime resident of
Henderson County, North Carolina. He was born on October 30, 1918 to Bonnie E. Jones and
John Wesley Bayne. Clyde's brothers Melvin and Dean predeceased him. He proudly served on
the front line with the 181st Field Artillery Regiment in the U.S. Army during World War II in
the South Pacific theater. Clyde owned Bayne Construction and built many fine homes in our
area and farther afield over the years.
Clyde was beloved by his large family and friends. Clyde never met a stranger and was always
quick with a kind word or joke. He was rarely seen in public without his tan fedora. Clyde was
a lifelong guitar player and especially loved singing classic cowboy songs. He was an avid
reader of Edgar Rice Burroughs and western novels. He loved animals and the Green River
Valley. His dear wife Katherine passed away in 1996 after 55 years of marriage. Clyde is
survived by his six children: Barbara Stamey of Canton, NC; Boe Bayne of Hendersonville,
NC; Bruce Bayne of Hendersonville, NC; Sandra Anders of Hendersonville, NC; Patricia
Thomas of Anderson, SC; and Darlene Hancock of Suanee, GA. He had twelve grandchildren
and eight great grandchildren. Clyde attended First Baptist Church in Hendersonville.
A graveside service will be held at the Bayne-Bane-Capps Cemetery, Green River Road,
Zirconia on Wednesday March 16, 2016 at 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that
memorials be sent to Honor Air, P.O. Box 331, Hendersonville, NC 28793 or
www.honorair.com.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or to PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

Read More »

Doris Estelle Russell Taylor, 78,

Doris Estelle Russell Taylor, 78, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 12, 2016, after a long battle with cancer. She was born on July 7, 1937 in Polk County and lived her entire life in Henderson County in the Tuxedo/Green River Township, where she met and married her husband of almost 56 years, Carl. She was a daughter of the late Jessie Elmore Russell and Martha Ann Louise (Josephine) Summey Russell. She is preceded in death by both parents, sisters Margaret Ann Capps, Selina Juanita Levi, and Linda Diane Landers, brothers Jessie Elmore (JE) Russell, Jr., Jerry Lee and James Arnold Russell. She is survived by her husband of almost 56 years, Carl Thomas Taylor, son, Keith Thomas Taylor and wife Shelly Mosely Taylor, grandsons Jay Thomas Taylor and Zachary Austin Merritt, sisters Myrtle Iola Bradley, Martha Louise Long, and brothers, Enon Henry Russell and Ernest Homer Russell, their spouses and numerous nieces and nephews.

The two brothers (Jerry 11 & Arnold 10) died in a tragic house fire on Jan 22nd 1958, just behind the Tuxedo First Baptist Church and the Green River Mill. This tragedy brought the Green River Community together and was the key to the formation of the Green River Volunteer Fire Department.

She retired from GE Lighting after about 30 years in 1993 and continued to work various other jobs for several more years until she started her last passion, which was keeping her grandson, Jay, from just after he was born until not long before he started kindergarten. And this truly was one of the greatest joys in her life. She was a loving, faithful, devoted and caring Christian wife, mother and grandmother as well as an active member of Hendersonville First Baptist Church.

The visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 15th at Jackson’s Funeral Home Chapel from 7pm to 9pm and the funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 16th at 2pm at Hendersonville First Baptist Church and internment will be following at Forest Lawn Cemetery. All services will be a closed casket per her request. Jackson’s Funeral Home has charge of the arrangements.

A memorial donation can be made to Four Seasons Foundation Office, 571 South Allen Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Four Seasons Compassion for Life (Elizabeth House) for their caring support in her final days.

Read More »

Clyde S. Bayne, 98

Clyde S. Bayne, 98, of Hendersonville, NC passed away Monday, March 14, 2016.
Jackson Funeral Service will announce the arrangements.

Read More »

Matthew Bryan Phillips, 45

Asheville- Matthew Bryan Phillips, 45, died Saturday, March 12, 2016 at Mission Hospital.

Matthew was a proud Henderson County native and a 1988 graduate of Edneyville High School. He attended Blue Ridge Community College and was of the Baptist Faith. He was employed with U.S. Foods for fifteen years and received sales and distribution awards. Matthew loved the outdoors and the water and was an avid golfer; he enjoyed fishing and playing pool. Matt will be missed by a host of friends and family.

He is survived by his mother, Judy Ward Owensby and her husband, Melvin of Lake Lure; his children, Haley of the home and Chase of Roanoke, VA; his brother, Jonathan Phillips and his wife, Wendy of Hendersonville; his nephews, Jacob Phillips, Kevin and Sean Gill; and his special aunt, Joann Ward Buckner.

The Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 15th, 2016 at Chimney Rock Baptist Church conducted by the Reverend Gene Daggerhart, Reverend Paul Nelon and Reverend Chris Roberts. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:45 p.m. prior to the service at Chimney Rock Baptist Church.

Serving as Pall Bearers will be Eric Denton, Chris and Sam Mizer, Greg Holbert, Doug Justice and Ronnie Woods. Honorary Pall Bearers will be Alan Buckner, Jacob Phillips, Mike Minery and Dennis Owensby.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Matthew’s memory be directed to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478 Oklahoma City, OK 73123.

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.

Read More »

George Edward Hudson, 96,

HENDERSONVILLE – George Edward Hudson, 96, took the hand of his precious Saviour, Jesus Christ on March 14, 2016.
He was born on September 27, 1919 to Ancel Luther Hudson and Margaret “Lizzy” Coggins. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, brothers, Gene and Fred and sisters, Nettie Thomas and Zanie Willis. Mr. Hudson was a veteran of World War II where he proudly contributed his service to his country in the U.S. Army in the 808th Tank Destroyer Battalion. Upon returning from the war he married Louise Fannie Maybin on June 14, 1947. In August of the following year, they welcomed their daughter, Eddie Lou Hudson Sizemore to join their Christian Family. He was an active member of Double Springs Baptist Church and served as a deacon for over 50 years. Mr. Hudson retired from the North Carolina School System where he was a custodian and bus driver at Tuxedo Elementary School. In addition to his being around the joy of kids, he was a lifelong farmer.
He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Louise, Daughter: Eddie Lou Sizemore and husband Earnest, Granddaughter: Susan Boffoli and her husband J.B. along with their son Jude Joseph, Grandson: Matthew Sizemore and his wife Amy along with their children Baileigh Grace, Lauren Faith and Avery Hudson.
Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Thursday, March 17, 2016 at Double Springs Baptist Church. Burial will follow the service in the Forest Lawn Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Henderson County Honor Guard. The body will lie in repose at the church one hour prior to the service. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Jackson Funeral Service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Council on Aging, 105 King Creek Blvd, Hendersonville, NC 28792, designated for Meals on Wheels.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or to PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

Read More »

Nancy Kay Euson Reale, 77

Nancy Kay Euson Reale, 77, of Hendersonville, passed away peacefully Monday, February 29, 2016 at Mission Hospital St. Joseph Campus.
A native of Cortland, NY, she was the daughter of the late Percival D and Pearl Helen Ward Euson. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband, John E. Reale, who passed away in 1989.
She graduated from Cortland High School and lived with her husband and four daughters in Liverpool, NY until 1980 before moving to Etowah, NC. Nancy was a member of Etowah United Methodist Church. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She was a loving mother and nana and will be missed by many.
She is survived by her daughters, Jill Johnson of Newberry, FL, Julie Haselton Scott and her husband, Steven Scott of Brevard, NC, Michelle Reale of Spartanburg, SC and Maria Reale of Mills River, NC; ten grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; sister, Jean Michaud of Lakeland, FL; and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to acknowledge the great love and support Nancy received from her friends, doctors, staff at Park Ridge Hospital and the doctors and staff Asheville Specialty Hospital at Mission St. Josephs Campus.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Please visit www.forestlawnhendersonville.com for online condolences.
Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Read More »

Jerome (“Jerry”, “Red”, “Peck’s Bad Boy”) Brill

Jerome (“Jerry”, “Red”, “Peck’s Bad Boy”) Brill passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Thursday, February 25th, 2016 at The Bridge at Lake Pointe Landing in Hendersonville, NC. He was born June 7th, 1926 in New York, NY; a son of the late Max and Dorothy (Mackler) Brill. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Lorraine (Phillips) Brill (2007), and his younger brother Stanley Brill (1984).

Jerry grew up in the Bronx, NY, and graduated from James Monroe High Class of 1944 before proudly serving his country in the United States Army Air Corps in World War II. He was stationed during the Allied Occupation in Wiesbaden, Germany as a Draftsman, and achieved the rank of Sergeant. He arrived home during demobilization of Europe and was honorably discharged at Fort Dix, New Jersey in 1947. He joined his family in Miami, Florida, where received a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts Degree while at the University of Miami. Jerry moved back up to New York City and attended the Art Students League, New York, NY. He also attended New York University, where he earned his Master’s of Education Degree.

After graduating he became an art educator as well as the Director of Art department at Hauppauge Schools in Hauppauge, New York. During this time Jerry and Lorraine married and settled in West Islip, New York on Long Island. Jerry proudly served as President of the Library Board of Trustees for the West Islip Public Library for many years.

After retiring from education, Jerry and Lorraine moved to Hendersonville, North Carolina. They enjoyed their retired life together, and sharing good times with the many friends they held dear. Jerry involved himself with many volunteer opportunities over the years, including the Friends of the Library in Hendersonville, work in the Pisgah Forest, an usher at the Flat Rock Playhouse, screening at the Interfaith Assistance Ministry, and at Blue Ridge Community College in the department of Life Long Learning.

Most importantly, Jerry was a happy fun loving man with a very gentle nature; a fabulous Dad to his children and a loving husband to Lorraine. He created his own cards for birthdays, holidays, for friends as thank you’s, and other occasions. These cards are cherished by the recipients. He had created art over the years, but he especially enjoyed doodling on every scrap of paper within reach. He was truly 89 years young, retaining his sense of humor until he passed.

Jerry is survived by his son, Jeffrey Brill and his wife, Kimberly of Haverhill, MA; daughter Lorri Brill-Hickson (Michael) of Fletcher, NC; sister, Sondra Cohen and her husband Stephen Goldzman of La Palma, CA; niece, Melissa Pearson Campbell and her husband Tut Campbell of Long Beach, CA; his nephew Eric Cohen and his wife Rana of Venice Beach, CA, along with several grand nieces and nephews, and a great grandniece.

Jerry and his family would like to thank the staff at Carolina Village Medical Center, The Bridge at Lake Pointe Landing, and his care team from Four Seasons Hospice for the loving care they have provided to him over the past few months.

The Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 2nd, 2016 in Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel conducted by the Reverend Steve Jones. The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Jerry’s memory be directed to Four Seasons Hospice, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731; or to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, Post Office Box 8195, Asheville, NC 28814.

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.

Read More »

Larry Kenneth Neal, 67,

Larry Kenneth Neal, 67, of Hendersonville, passed away Saturday, March 12, 2016.
He was a native of Henderson County and a son of Ruby Thrift Neal and the late Frank Neal. He was also preceded in death by his son Daniel “Danny” Neal.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After the war he returned home and started working at Berkley Mills where he worked for 32 years in various departments. Once he returned home from the war he met and fell in love with his sweet wife Rita and would have been married 45 years in June. They had two wonderful boys then they were gifted with three beautiful granddaughters whom he spoiled rotten.
Larry was a devoted husband, dad, son, brother, grandpa and friend. Anyone that knew Larry knew he was a very funny man. He was an avid jokester and joke teller and had a gift of embellishment to anything he was telling. He loved, blue grass and gospel music, Music on Main, clogging, antique car shows, cookouts, family and friend get-togethers and reunions.
He loved cooking in his Dutch oven cookware and anyone that had it couldn’t get enough. He never met a stranger and would talk to anyone at any time. Larry had a lasting impact on so many people to say he is going to be missed is a huge understatement.
He is survived by his wife, Rita Davis Neal; son, Kenneth “Kenny” Neal, mother, Ruby Frady and stepfather Vance Frady; grandchildren, Heather Neal, Faith Ann Neal and Krista Neal; brothers, Jerry Neal and his wife Tasha, Bill Lindsey and his wife Mary, Jimmy Frady, Kenneth Frady and his wife Cathy; sisters, Barbie Allen and her husband Kent, Doris Sexton and her husband David, Susan Fox and Helen Patterson and her husband Pat; several nieces and nephews and many friends.
A funeral service will be held 11:00 am, Wednesday, March 16, 2016 in the Forest Lawn Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Mike Engle officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday, March 15, at the funeral home.
Please visit www.forestlawnhendersonville.com for online condolences.
Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Read More »

George Detmann Gambsky, 90

George Detmann Gambsky, 90 of Etowah, NC passed peacefully at the Elizabeth House on February 27, 2016.
He was of the Lutheran faith.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Ella Gambsky and his sister, Helen G. Farley and her husband James.
George loved photography. He started at age nine taking and developing his own photos.
He taught at the University of Wisconsin and some of his pictures are displayed there. George traveled extensively in Europe conducting seminars, leading tours, and taking photos. George also enjoyed traveling in the U.S. in his ’54 VW bug ! He came to this area to teach at Brevard College, but tragically before this could occur, a disease took his sight. George was very resourceful and independent! He will be missed by all who knew him, especially by his caregivers, Virgle and Reva McClure.
A memorial service will be held at Etowah Presbyterian Church, Sunday March 13, at 3:00 PM with the Revs. Kyle Segars and Tom Cook officiating.
Memorials may be made to : Meals on Wheels, 105 King Creek Blvd, Hendersonville, NC 28792.
Jackson Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Read More »

Deloris S. Spangler, 86,

Deloris S. Spangler, 86, of Flat Rock passed away Tuesday, March 8, 2016. Born in West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Roy and Goldie McGrady Francum. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Charles “Charlie” R. Spangler.
In her early years, Deloris worked as a hairdresser and then at a manufacturing plant. In 1948, she had her first son, Charles “Ed” Spangler, and her second son, David Spangler, five years later. Deloris was an excellent cook and always maintained a large garden. She also loved to sew and made lots of her own clothes. Deloris and Charlie moved to Seneca, SC, where they lived for several years. They had a home on Lake Keowee and a pontoon boat that they loved to take out on the lake to fish. In 2007, Deloris and Charlie moved to the Orchards of Flat Rock due to Charlie’s declining health. Deloris enjoyed and appreciated her neighbors there. They helped her celebrate her 80th birthday (her first real birthday party) which was a very special occasion for her.
Deloris is survived by her two sons, Charles “Ed” Spangler and David Spangler; her daughter-in-law, Kelly Spangler; two grandchildren, Doug and Christy; three great-grandchildren, Destiny, Lacie and Nicolas; and one great-great-grandchild, Nicolai.
A funeral service will be held at 4:00 pm, Thursday, March 10, 2016 in the Kirby Memorial Chapel of Shuler Funeral Home. The viewing will be at 3:00 PM prior to the service. The Reverend Sherrill Moore will officiate. Burial will be at Oconee Memorial Park, 1923 Blue Ridge Blvd., Seneca, SC 29672.
To offer online condolences please visit www.shulerfuneralhome.com.

Shuler Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Read More »

James Edward (Ed) Burns, 79,

James Edward (Ed) Burns, 79, of Lake Butler, Fl. went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 5, 2016 peacefully at his home with his family. He fought a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He was born in Hendersonville, North Carolina to the late Elzie and Ruth Burns. He was preceded in death by his brother, Waverly Burns; his sister, Francis Ashe; his infant son, Dylan Burns; and two grandsons, Joshua Burns and Matti Hansen.

He was a very hard worker. He was the owner of several businesses including Utility Construction, Burns Septic, and real estate. He attended the Bayless Highway Baptist Church. His hobbies were playing guitar, hunting and fishing.

Surviving is his loving wife of 46 years; Linda Smart Burns; his two daughters; Terri (Tony) Waldron of Marietta, S.C., and Alison (Wayne) Fullwood of Gloucester, Va.; his sons, Jimmy (Mitzi) Burns of Miami, Mark (Debra) Duncan of Middleburg, Fl., Curtis (Debbie) Burns of Las Vegas and Carroll (Darla) Burns Gray Court, SC; and eleven grandchildren; and six great grandchildren, with two on the way. He also has several nieces and nephews, with one special niece, Anna Salter.

The family would like to give a big thank you for everyone at Hospice of the Nature Coast of High Springs, Fl. The family requests any donations may be sent to Hospice of the Nature Coast in High Springs, FL. Flowers are also appreciated.

A funeral service will be will be held at 1:00pm on Thursday at Horse Shoe First Baptist Church. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Shaw Creek Campground Cemetery.

Shuler Funeral Home is assisting with local arrangements. An online register book is available at www.shulerfuneralhome.com.

Read More »