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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Merritt Franklin “Little Mutt” Johnson, Jr., 74

Merritt Franklin “Little Mutt” Johnson, Jr., 74, of Hendersonville died on Friday, September 28, 2018 at Hendersonville Health and Rehabilitation after a period of declining health. He was born November 9, 1943 in Las Vegas, New Mexico; a son of the late Merritt Franklin Johnson, Sr. and Rosemary Holland Johnson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Johnson Tidrick.

He spent his formative years in both Hendersonville as well as Sanford, FL. He excelled in athletics especially in football when he attended Hendersonville High School. He graduated in 1962 from Seminole High School in Sanford, FL. He and his family resided for numerous years in Marietta, GA before returning to Hendersonville. He was involved with several companies over the years. He lived life to the fullest.

He is survived by his son, Merritt Franklin “Scott” Johnson, III and his wife, Angie of Sherborn, MA. His three grandchildren: Wade, Nash, and Annascott Johnson all of Sherborn, MA. One brother, Berry H. Johnson of Hendersonville. He is also survived by many relatives of the “Johnson Clan”.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 5, 2018 in Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel officiated by the Reverend Dr. Mark Ralls.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials in Mr. Johnson’s memory be made to Addis Cure, c/o Christi Johnson, 19520 West Catawba Avenue, Suite 200, Cornelius, NC 28031.

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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Anita Flora Clarke Penner, 92

Anita Flora Clarke Penner, 92, of Hendersonville died on Monday, August 20, 2018 at Carolina Village Medical Center. She was born July 9, 1926 in Montclair, New Jersey; a daughter of the late Harry Seymore and Annie Birks Clarke. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Penner, whom she was married to for 59 years.

She will be remembered for her enthusiasm and engagement in life. In her healthy years, she was a hiker, an outdoor enthusiast, an avid reader and always inquisitive about the people around her.

She is survived by her son, Craig Robert Penner of Santa Barbara, CA. Her two daughters: Becky Penner Pomfret of Sarasota, FL and Lorraine Penner Judson of Marietta, GA. Her four grandchildren: David, Kurt, Kyle, Jessica as well as six great grandchildren: Jonas, Jamison, Ella, Dexter, Samson, and Clementine. She also leaves behind her lifelong best friend, Peggy Peters.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 27, 2018, at Hendersonville Presbyterian Church Memorial Garden with Pastor Robert Hicks officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Ms. Penner’s memory be made to The Carolina Village Employee Fund, 600 Carolina Village Road, Suite #2, 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 arrangements.

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Herman Ralph Fisher, 91

Herman Ralph Fisher, 91, of Mills River died on Wednesday, September 19, 2018 at the Elizabeth House. He was born August 9, 1927 in Henderson County; a son of the late Sheridan Lawrence and Rosa Lee Holcombe Fisher. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons: Michael Fisher and David Fisher, six brothers: Graham, Miles, Perry, Charlie, Arnold, and George Fisher and four sisters: Myrtle Camp, Katherine Summey, Margaret Norwood, and Lucy Anders.

He was a lifelong resident of Henderson County. He retired from Bigger’s Brother’s of Charlotte after 30 years of employment. He also was employed with Fisher Mazda. He was a member and deacon of French Broad Baptist Church and had also taught Sunday school. He served in the Army Air Corps.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Ida Christina Coates Fisher. Son, Jeff Fisher of Mills River. Two daughters: Beverly Davis and her husband Allan of Mills River, Melinda Pryor and her husband Bob of Charlotte. One sister, Barbara Jones of Hendersonville. Five grandchildren: Brandon Johnson and his wife Kathy, Ashley Corn, Kara Laws and her husband Trae, Kasey Fisher and her husband Jeff, Ben Pryor and his wife Sarah as well as eleven great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 22, 2018, at French Broad Baptist Church with Reverend Kemuel Pruitt officiating. Family will receive friends after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made in Mr. Fisher’s memory to French Broad Baptist Church, 182 Grandview Ln, Hendersonville, NC 28791 or Four Seasons Hospice, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

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. Frank Donald Newell, 95

Dr. Frank Donald Newell, 95, of Hendersonville, died on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2018 after a period of declining health. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

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

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Larry Lee “Bear” Whiteside, 62

Larry Lee “Bear” Whiteside, 62, of Fletcher died on Thursday, September 6, 2018 at Mission Hospital. He was born November 21, 1955 in Buncombe County; a son of the late Claude Charles and Genevieve Arlene Varney Whiteside. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Laura Webber.

He was a loving husband, father, and friend. He had resided in Henderson County for 18 years. A well known and respected mechanic, he owned and operated Bear’s Road Service. He enjoyed the outdoors and drag racing.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Geneva Darlene Whiteside. He is also survived by two sons: Shannon Whiteside and his wife Susan and Wesley Whiteside and his wife Angie. His two brothers: Dean Whiteside and his wife Donna and David Whiteside and his wife Pam. One sister, Kathy Cannaday; eleven grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews; and his four legged friend, “Chloe”.

The graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, September 12, 2018, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park with Pastor Cody Sturgill officiating.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Tuesday, September 11, 2018 at Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Mr. Whiteside’s memory be made to The American Heart Association, 128 South Tryon Street, Ste. 1588, Charlotte, NC 28202 or The Breast Cancer Foundation, 2600 Network Blvd, Suite 300 Frisco, TX 75034.

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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Cora Marie Gade Petersen, 100

Cora Marie Gade Petersen, 100, of Hendersonville died on Tuesday, September 4, 2018 at the Life Care Center. She was born April 18, 1918 in Delmont, South Dakota; a daughter of the late Frederick Carl and Clara Bertha Steffen Gade. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter “Pete” Petersen, whom she was married to for 70 years as well as five sisters and one brother.

She grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and lived over fifty-five years in Champaign, Illinois before moving to North Carolina in 2006 to be closer to her daughter. She attended Valparaiso University studying education for the deaf which is where she met her husband. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed golf, achieving 3 holes in one. She was known for creating original artistic needlework and crafts. She traveled the world. She volunteered in Illinois Children’s Home and Aid, Mercy and Burnham Hospital Auxiliaries, PEO, and Junior League of Champaign-Urbana. She was a lifelong Lutheran.

She is survived by two sons: Dr. William Petersen, Sr. and his wife Kathleen of Virginia Beach, VA, and John Petersen and his wife Margaret of Ann Arbor, MI. One daughter, Kay Petersen Leyrer and her husband Stephen of Flat Rock. Her nine grandchildren: Laura Miller, Sarah Brosius, Mark Leyrer, Dr. William Petersen, Jr., Dr. Timothy Petersen, Robert J. Petersen, Lindsey Bernsdorf, Robert H. Petersen, Ruthann Petersen as well as eleven great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. One sister, Paula Mueller, 106, of Bloomington, IN.

The funeral service will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, September 8, 2018 at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church, 2606 Chimney Rock Road, with Pastor Jon Christensen officiating. Burial will follow in Shepherd Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Cora to the donor’s
favorite charity.

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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Avis Mintz Spellman Maxwell, 86

Avis Mintz Spellman Maxwell, 86, of Hendersonville died on Monday, August 27, 2018 at the Elizabeth House. She was born July 1, 1932 in Henderson County; a daughter of the late Eulas and Eula Mae Corn Mintz. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Maxwell was preceded in death by her sister, Mildred “Min” Fay Mintz, and her brother, Fred “Stick” Mintz whom Avis always told them,” I am the baby and they have to do what I want them to!”

Avis was a native and lifelong resident of Henderson County. She was a Clerical Bookkeeper in the Henderson County Judicial system until her retirement. As an active member of French Broad Baptist Church for numerous years she particularly enjoyed helping with Vacation Bible School. She also enjoyed traveling and fishing. However, whenever she was asked if she liked to cook her response was always the same, “we have two stoves and they have never been turned on.”

She is survived by her husband of 30 years, William Fred Maxwell. She is also survived by her “almost” daughter, Audra S. Thompson, as well as her “almost” grandson, Kaleb Thompson.

The graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, August 31, 2018 at Shepherd Memorial Park with Pastor Kemual Pruitt officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Avis’s memory be directed to French Broad Baptist Church, 182 Grandview Lane, 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 arrangements.

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William Isaac (Bill) Hoffman, 55

William Isaac (Bill) Hoffman, age 55, of Hendersonville, NC passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 18, surrounded by his loved ones.

Bill was blessed with a brilliant engineering mind; he graduated from UNM in Mechanical Engineering and held patents in engineering processes. His thirst for knowledge--math, science, history and sports—was shared with others enlivening conversations with his quick-witted humor and trivia. Bill moved to Hendersonville, NC from Albuquerque, NM in 1999 and held engineering and managerial positions at Intel, Selee, Crane Resistoflex, and BorgWarner.

Bill was a loving husband, father, son, and brother. He was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan since the age of 7, enjoyed F1 car racing and woodworking. He leaves behind many friends who cherished him. It was important to Bill that those around him grow to be the best they could be and enjoyed mentoring them along their journey.

Bill is survived by his bride of 18 years, Dianna Hoffman; son Evan (Brittany Cutshall) Hoffman; daughter Stephanie Hoffman; stepdaughter Rachael Noa; granddaughters Ani Noa and Aurora Noa; mother Cecilia Hoffman; sister Lisa (Erik) Dunkle and their three children, Nikki, Kyrsten, and Kevin; brother Jamie Hoffman; mother-in-law Gloria Reedy; brothers-in-law Christian (Marya) Reedy and Charles (Cindy) Reedy; sisters-in-law Shirley (Doug) Mitchell and Agatha (Vaughn) Fulton. Bill is preceded in death by his father, Joseph W. Hoffman.

A visitation for Bill will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 21, 2018 at Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Home, 125 Church St., Hendersonville. Bill will be laid to rest in Albuquerque.

The loving memories Bill leaves behind and the impact he had on others will be everlasting.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MANNA Food Bank ‘packs for kids’ program, 627 Swannanoa River Road, Asheville, NC 28805.

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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Lois Ann Ericson Tennant, 73

Lois Ann Ericson Tennant, 73,  died on July 4, 2018 after a rapid decline in health. She is greatly missed and survived by her brother Edward Ericson, his wife Kim, three nieces Tara, Tasha and Talia, their spouses, her three grandnephews and one grandniece. She was employed for many years by the Times-News in various positions. A memorial service will be held on August 4 at the Upward SDA Church on Upward Road at 2 p.m.

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James Paul Matykiewicz, 72

James Paul Matykiewicz, 72, of Lowell, IN, passed away at home on Saturday, June 16, 2018. He was born in Chicago, IL, on June 14, 1946, to the late Leonard and Helen (Sypniewski) Matykiewicz. Jim is survived by his wife, Lynn (Hoeppner) Matykiewicz, his children Tim (Amy) Matykiewicz of Orland Park, IL, Dave (Jenny) Koehler of Hebron, IN, Jennifer (Craig) Wilson of Lowell, IN, and seven grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Norm (Janet) Matykiewicz of Tempe, AZ, sister Chris (Chester) Stanislawski of Phoenix, AZ, brother Tom (Jenny) Matykiewicz of Hickory Hills, IL, and brother-in-law Walt (Anne) Hoeppner of Libertyville, IL, along with many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. He will be greatly missed by Border Terriers Molly, Mickey, and Midas. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws Walter and Vivian Hoeppner.

Jim was a proud Navy veteran who served aboard the USS Boxer during the Viet Nam war. After his service, Jim spent over 30 years as a licensed stationary engineer at the Standard Oil/Amoco/Aon Center building in downtown Chicago. When he retired in 2002, Jim and Lynn moved from Flossmoor, Illinois, to Hendersonville, North Carolina, where they enjoyed life in the mountains and were members of the Hendersonville Country Club and the Church of St. John in the Wilderness, Flat Rock. They returned to the Chicago area and settled in Lowell, Indiana, in late 2015.

Jim loved sports and had dreamed of playing professional baseball. He was an avid White Sox and Bears fan. Cars were always an important part of his life and he owned several special ones including the 2008 Bullitt Mustang. As the ultimate Beatles fan, Jim thoroughly enjoyed touring Liverpool during their British Isles cruise in 2015. His was a life well lived and he leaves behind many wonderful memories that will live on for all that knew and loved him.

A Memorial Mass followed by military honors will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, July 7, 2018, at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church, 9300 W. 167th St., Orland Hills, IL 60487.

The family thanks the wonderful staff at the Hospice of the Calumet Area who provided such compassionate care and guidance.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice of the Calumet Area or the charity of your choice.

Sign Jim’s online guestbook and view directions at www.GeisenFuneralHome.com – (219) 663-2500.

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Dr. Edgar D. Baker

Dr. Edgar D. Baker passed away on June 21, 2018 at Elizabeth House with complications from diabetes. He was born in Pine Bluff, AR on September 7, 1936 to the late Maybel Nicholson and Burt J. Baker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his half sisters, Ruth, Jackie and Jean.

He grew up in Dyersburg, TN and graduated from Dyersburg High School in 1954. He played football and baseball in high school. He was a talented and determined player and was a national All-American High School Selectee which enabled him to attend college on football scholarship. He attended Vanderbilt University, Arlington Jr. College (now University of Texas at Arlington) where he played on the Junior Rose Bowl team in California, and Murray State University in Murray, KY. While at Murray State, he met and married his wife of 60 years, Greta Fay Boyd of Sheridan, KY.

He continued his education at University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis, TN and graduated in June 1962. He then did a general medicine internship at Ben Taub Hospital in Houston, TX. Dr. Baker served 3 years in the USAF before moving to NC, first to Franklin to practice at Angel Hospital then to Hendersonville. He was in Family Practice in Hendersonville from 1967 to 2009 when he retired. He shared a practice arrangement over the years with Dr. B.J. Romeo and Dr. William H. Strickland.

For many years, you could see him on the sidelines at East Henderson High School football games as the team doctor. He hoped to instill in these young men that if they studied and worked hard, anything was possible. Ed Baker was a living example of hard work and success and an excellent mentor.

He loved football and had season tickets to the University of Tennessee for more than 30 years. He dearly loved cheering for the Volunteers and wearing orange, going so far as to have an orange car, which he drove to home games doing 5 miles under the posted speed limit. He was a notoriously slow driver and he took a lot of ribbing for it! When he could no longer get to Knoxville, he watched the Vols on television.

He was a good man, loving husband and father. He loved music, especially jazz and Johnny Cash. He loved a good glass of Gentleman Jack and cheap wine, all in moderation. He enjoyed hunting, though he never brought home a prize. Mostly, he went because enjoyed the outdoors and being with his buddies. In his younger years, he loved his Wednesday afternoon round of golf where more talking and joking took place than serious play. He was a history buff, liked political sparring and cherished his chocolate labs Nate and Forrest. Ed had the gift of telling a perfectly timed joke. He was a funny man with a wicked sense of humor. Most of all, he loved being a self-described "country doctor." He cared deeply for his patients. He worked endless hours, touched thousands of lives and he will be remembered by many for the indelible mark he left on their life.

He is survived by his wife Greta, son Edgar D. Baker, Jr. and his fiance, Shonda; and daughter, Susan Baker Weis and her husband, Steven; and grandchildren Morgan Elizabeth and Alexander Baker Weis; foster grandson, Emmanuel Muteberwa; Sister-in-law Sharon Summers and her husband, Rodney.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 24, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church of Hendersonville, 204 Sixth Avenue West, Hendersonville, NC. A reception will be held immediately following the service in the Barber Christian Life Center.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations in memory of Dr. Edgar Baker be directed to the First United Methodist Church of Hendersonville, 204 6th Ave W, Hendersonville, NC 28739 or Four Seasons Hospice, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

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

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Mary Elizabeth “Mary Lib” Blair McLeod

Mary Elizabeth “Mary Lib” Blair McLeod was born on February 26, 1928. She was the only child of Lawrence Andrew Blair and Velma Thomas Blair, who preceded her in death. She was born and raised in Hendersonville, North Carolina.

She married her high school sweetheart, John Franklin McLeod, Jr., who died in 2007 after sixty years of marriage.

She graduated from Hendersonville High School in 1946, and later studied piano and organ at Converse College and Mars Hill College. She taught piano and organ for many years and not only taught her students how to play, but instilled in them love and appreciation of good music.

She was a church musician and had served as organist or substitute organist at many local churches.

She loved her family, her friends, her church, and music. She especially loved accompanying her granddaughter, Cathey, when she sang.

She had been a member of the Junior Welfare Club, Girl Scout troop leader, a 50 plus year member of P.E.O. Chapter O, and a member of Joseph McDowell Chapter DAR.

She is survived by her three children: Elizabeth M. Barber Girard, Anne M. Ridings, and John Franklin McLeod III. Additionally, she is survived by her four precious granddaughters and their husbands: Beth R. Pope and Tim, Cathey R. Gilbert and Chip, Blair M. McCauley and Joe, Laurie M. Bruffy and Tyler. She is also survived by two great-grandsons, Hunter Pope and Evan Sapp. Also surviving are John Barber (Kathy), Robert Barber (Robin), Jann Girard (Ellis), Dian Girard Johns (James), Jay Girard (Leigh) and their children and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Susan B. Coppedge. She is survived by three sisters-in-law, several cousins and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 11, 2018 in the Sanctuary of Hendersonville Presbyterian Church officiated by the Reverend Dr. Bill Campbell.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Hendersonville High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund, 1 Bearcat Boulevard, Hendersonville, NC 28791; or Hendersonville Presbyterian Church Renovation Fund, 699 North Grove Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792; or P.E.O. Foundation, c/o Nancy Leonard, 243 Sugar Hollow Rd., 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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John Washington Mitchell, 80

John Washington Mitchell, 80, of Hendersonville, died Sunday, February 4, 2018, at his home after a recent stroke. He was born December 18, 1937, in Charleston, West Virginia, the son of the late John Washington and Charlotte McLane Mitchell.

John worked for many years as a program manager in the telecommunications field in Melbourne, Florida, as well as Fort Belvoir, Virginia. After marrying Alice in 1995, they relocated to the Cummings Cove community in 2001 from Falls Church, Virginia. John was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Hendersonville for over 16 years. Not only did he serve as an usher, John was as an active participant in Sunday school and religion classes and enjoyed numerous church field trips. He volunteered in the community not only as a Stephen Minister, but most recently volunteered his time at Hendersonville’s Interfaith Assistance Ministry. John also served on the Cummings Cove Design Review Board. He loved golf, fishing, shooting pool, and rooting for his alma mater, Ohio State. He loved his home, his family, his birds, his big cat “Zachary”, and watching sporting events on television.

He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Alice Mitchell, of Hendersonville, one son, Chris Mitchell and his wife Rita and one daughter, Kelly Mitchell, all of Palm Bay, Florida. He is also survived by two grandchildren: Nanci Mitchell of Colombia, South Carolina and Blake Mitchell of Palm Bay, Florida as well as one step-daughter, Lin Petrucci, of Portland, Oregon.

The memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2018 at First United Methodist Church, with Reverend Jean Goodwin officiating. A private inurnment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations in John’s memory, be made to his favorite charity, Interfaith Assistance Ministry at P.O. Box 2562, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

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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