John Clausen

John Clausen, much loved father, brother, uncle and friend, died at home March 20, 2013.

Born in Minot, N.D., on October 21, 1949, to Morten H. and Doris Paff Clausen, John grew up on the family farm. As a young man he was a rambler, having many adventures and storing them away to become the anecdotes he told with such wit, humor and charm to the great many friends he also collected along the way. His marriage and the birth of his son rooted the rambler in Hendersonville, where his wife's family was located. He became a wonderful father to Pete, of whom he was justifiably very proud.

John held a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Arizona, Tucson, and a masters from Antioch College. He worked as a reporter on weekly and daily newspapers in Arizona and Kansas, edited several magazines, owned a California-based advertising agency that specialized in direct mail, and taught classes in journalism and advertising. John's book, "Too Lazy to Work, Too Nervous to Steal," was the Writer's Digest Book Club main selection in May, 2001. His work was published in a wide variety of periodicals from The Christian Science Monitor to The New York Daily News Sunday Magazine. One of his articles was purchased by Penthouse, but, much to the relief of his father, it was never published. He also self-published his debut novel, "Big Hungry," a rather strange murder mystery set in North Dakota, online last year. In recent years, John taught English at the Blue Ridge Community College in Henderson County and was working on another novel, much anticipated by his fans, but unfinished at his death.

John is survived by his son, Pete; his sisters, Ann and Jane; his ex-wife but still close friend, Sandy McGlashan and her husband Ken Weitzen; his brother-in-law Peter Dajevskis; his nieces Mara, Erika and Daina Dajevskis; David and Mona McGlashan, and an enormous collection of wonderful and supportive friends. All those who survive him will miss his humor, his compassion, his smart mouth and the acceptance he offered to every person he gathered into his circle. The world will be less interesting without John, and not nearly as funny.

A memorial service will be held for John at the Unitarian church in Hendersonville at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 23.

Anyone wishing to donate something should send a donation to the Free Clinics, 841 Case Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792.

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

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.

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Barbara Helen Sommer Nicholls

Barbara Helen Sommer Nicholls of Hendersonville was born September 27, 1932 in Beloit, Wisc. Her parents were Elmer and Elsie Sommer, who are both deceased. Her prior residences include Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Florida.

Mrs. Nicholls earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Manchester College, North Manchester, Ind., with additional graduate hours in areas of counseling and special education. She then earned a Master of Science degree from Saint Francis College in Fort Wayne, Ind.

Barbara taught Home Economics and Special Education in Indiana and Florida school systems; she was a Co-Manager for Yeager Insurance in Warsaw, Ind.; and she was the proprietor of Montgomery Ward Sales Agency in Warsaw, Ind.

She is preceded in death by one brother, Donald.

Her survivors include husband Harold (married Sept. 7, 1952); sons Jeffrey (and Jackie) Nicholls of Anderson, Ind., Gregory (and Laurie) Nicholls of West Chester, Ohio, Scott (and Lois) Nicholls of Timonium, Md.; and daughters Holly (and Dave) McGuire of Warsaw, Ind., Amy Nicholls of Greenville, S.C.; eight grandchildren (and three spouses), three great-grandchildren, and one sister, Karen (and Dave) Wilharms of Wausau, Wisc.

Mrs. Nicholls' formal activities and associations include serving as a Guardian Ad Litem in Florida, being a past State Secretary and District II President of the Indiana Home Economics Association, and serving as President of the active and associate chapters of Tri Kappa Associate Organization. She was also a past board member and Secretary of Mobile Meals in Indiana, as well as a former President of Extension Homemakers Club and past County Officer for Indiana. She was a Kosciusko Community Hospital Auxiliary member who also served as Secretary and Vice-President of the volunteer board. She was also a member of the American Association of University Women.

Mrs. Nicholls served as a board member of the Plantation Walk Neighborhood Association in Hendersonville. She was also a former Regent of the Joseph McDowell Chapter DAR in Hendersonville and founded the Mary Coffin Starbuck Chapter for the National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century.

Mrs. Nicholls was a long-time member of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Hendersonville.

Personal Life Comments:
Barbara Helen Sommer Nicholls has entered The Kingdom, leaving a life of constant enrichment as a self-made person and excelling in all she valued. Her valiant struggle against cancer gave her many extra years of life.

Foremost in her values was a pursuit of having a strong family, leading by example and accomplished skills. With an education in health and social skills, Mrs. Nicholls strived to pass these values and traits onto her family.

Amongst her efforts giving to the community, Barbara sewed quilts and lap robes to be given to the VA hospital in Hendersonville and to mothers-to-be at the local pregnancy center. She advocated for children in need as a Guardian Ad Litem, and was a group homes manager and adult literacy teacher as an adjunct to her work as a special education teacher. Barbara was involved in various quilting clubs and loved giving quilts to her family members. She also enjoyed weaving, knitting, and visiting her large circle of family and friends. Having lived in the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and South, she easily made friends everywhere and garnered many warm relationships over the years.

Mrs. Nicholls was also an avid genealogist, finding her roots and gaining eligibility in the Daughters of the American Revolution, as well as founding the local chapter of Colonial Dames. Barbara also served on several boards, traveled five continents, and loved to sail to many countries.

Barbara will be dearly missed by her loving family and by all who knew her, but leaves a legacy of many wonderful memories. We will remember her for a life that was giving and generous.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 6, at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 900 Blythe St., Hendersonville, with a small reception immediately following.

Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to the Hendersonville Rescue Mission, 639 Maple Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792.

An online guest book and sympathy card are available at www.shulerfuneralhome.com.

Shuler Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Ocie A. Gilliam Jackson, 91

Ocie A. Gilliam Jackson, 91, of Hendersonville went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, March 19, 2013, at the Elizabeth House.

She was born on May 10, 1921 to the late Robert King and Lula Hyder King. She also was preceded in death by her husbands, Clarence Gilliam who died in 1994 and Foy Jackson who died in 2006 and her daughter, Louise Gilliam.

In addition to being a loving house wife and mother, she also enjoyed working in her flower and vegetable gardens.

She is survived by her son, Clyde Gilliam and his wife Gleanus, of Dana; her two daughters, Cathie Hyder and her husband Ronnie, of Hendersonville, Darlene Gilliam of Black Mountain; her five grandchildren; her nine great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 22, 2013 at Thos. Shepherd's Church Street Chapel with Randy Tryon, MD officiating. Burial will follow at Refuge Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 1 p.m. Friday.

A register book is available online by visiting www.thoshepherd.com.

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

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Rev. Martin J. Luecke, 79

Rev. Martin J. Luecke, 79, of Hendersonville went to his heavenly home Sunday, March 17, 2013, at Elizabeth House following a period of declining health.

A native of Bronxville, N.Y., he lived in Henderson County since 1980. He was a son of the late Wilbur and Louise Rippe Luecke, and was also preceded in death by his brother, William Luecke.

He was a graduate of Concordia Prep. and Junior College in Bronxville, N.Y., and was ordained into the ministry in 1959. His vicarage began in Minneapolis. He then served parishes in Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Ohio, again in Wisconsin, and Hendersonville. He served as pastor at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church from March 23, 1980, until his retirement Feb. 7, 1999. He was a kind and loving husband, father, and grandfather.

Survivors include his loving wife of 52 years, Dianne C. Luecke; three sons, Bruce A. Luecke and his wife Mariana of Fletcher, Paul E. Luecke and his wife Mary of Minneapolis, Michael J. Luecke and his wife Blenda of Marshall; a daughter, Laura L. Reinhold and husband Roy of Hendersonville; a sister, Gesine Mangieri and her husband Louis of Simpsonville, S.C.; six grandchildren, Samantha, Christian, Erica, Amanda, Jessica, Alan; two great grandchildren, Aubrey, Kamari; and a number of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 21, 2013, at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church with Pastor Larry Rabon officiating. There will be a reception in the fellowship hall following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church, 2606 Chimney Rock Road, Hendersonville, NC 28792, or Four Seasons Compassion for Life , 571 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

A guest book and sympathy cards are available at www.forestlawnhendersonville.com.

Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Irene H. Sentell, 98

Irene H. Sentell, 98, of Hendersonville passed away Monday, March 18, 2013, at Hendersonville Health and Rehabilitation following an extended illness.

A native and lifelong resident of Henderson County she was a daughter of the late Porter and Julia Howard, and the wife of the late R. V. Sentell who died in 1983. She was of the Baptist faith, and was preceded in death by three brothers, Raymond, Julian, and Clanning Howard; and one sister, Gertrude McMurray.

Survivors include a daughter, Barbara Rhodes of Hendersonville; a son, David Sentell and his wife Patricia of Hendersonville; six grandchildren, Leon Rhodes, Michael Rhodes, Shirley Rhodes, Donna Geoge, Susan Newman, Lt. Col. Robert Sentell; six great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 21, 2013, in the Forest Lawn Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Robert Garren officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the chapel.

Memorials may be made to the donor's favorite charity.

A guest book and sympathy cards are available at www.forestlawnhendersonville.com.

Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Kathleen Baldwin, 81

Kathleen Baldwin, 81, of Hendersonville died Tuesday, March 19, 2013, at Four Seasons Elizabeth House.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2013, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. Pastors Jim and Betty Mead will officiate.

To sign the online register book, visit www.forestlawnhendersonville.com.

Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family.

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Mary B. Ward, 89

Mary B. Ward, 89, of Hendersonville, passed away Monday, March 18, 2013, at Life Care Center of Hendersonville.

Mary, a lifelong resident of Henderson County, was a daughter of the late James and Lona Ward Beddingfield. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, John T. Ward Sr., and son, John T. Ward Jr.

She is survived by daughter, Theresa Cagle and husband Cliff; grandchildren, Carrie Baldwin and husband Michael, Crystal Montoya and husband Carlos; great-grandchildren, Brittany Baldwin and Carina Montoya all of Hendersonville; sister, Myrtle Williams; sisters-in-law, Adlyn Bell and Thelma Ward; brother-in-law, James P. Ward and wife Mary Jo; several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m., Wednesday, March 20, 2013, in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Hendersonville. Rev. Guy Smith will be officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Hill Cemetery Fund, Attn. Jerald Summey, 650 Crystal Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792.

An online guest book and sympathy cards are available at www.shulerfuneralhome.com.

Shuler Funeral Home is assisting the family.

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Blanche Marian Brooke

Blanche M. Brooke, 87, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2013 at the Elizabeth House.

Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., on Aug. 9, 1925, she was the daughter of Polish immigrants, the late Peter and Eleanora (Grodzicka) Wojtecki. She was the youngest of three children which include her sister, Helen Anysz of Brick, N.J., and a deceased brother Henry Wojtecki.

She is survived by her daughter Bonnie C. Brooke of Hendersonville; her sons Daryl (Susanne) Brooke of Key West, Fla., and Todd (Kathy) Brooke of Pittsford, N.Y. She had seven grandchildren, Kristin (John) Cushwa, Keith Brooke, Scott (Maggie) Brooke, Catherine Brooke, Theresa (Nate) Galtieri, Heidi Mallwitz, and Charlotte Brooke, and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of almost 59 years, Harry M. Brooke. She was retired from Kraft Foods on Long Island, N.Y., where she worked as a stenographer. Blanche and Harry enjoyed retirement in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina, being involved in various arts. They were members of the Henderson County Gem and Mineral Society, Mineral and Lapidary Museum, and Henderson County Crafters Association. She enjoyed painting, sewing, and crafting beaded jewelry. They attended Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. Blanche was an avid volunteer for several years at Mainstay Store and the Council on Aging Store.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Four Seasons Hospice, the Henderson County Council on Aging, or donor's choice.

A memorial service and celebration of Blanche's life will be announced at a later date.

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

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Howard R. Kratz, 96, Physicist

Howard Russell Kratz, 96, of Carolina Village, died Thursday, March 14, 2013, at the Village. Before his death, he was one of the last surviving scientists from the Manhattan Project, which produced the first atomic bomb during World War II.

Howard was born Nov. 2, 1916, in Mattoon, Wisconsin, to Samuel H. and Addie (Jones) Kratz, and spent his youth in nearby Clintonville and Waupaca. He graduated from Ripon College in Ripon, Wisc., and then pursued graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin and Princeton University, earning his PhD in physics in 1942.

Immediately after completing his studies, he married Mary K. Bunsa of Columbus, Wisc., whom he had met at Ripon College. The couple moved to Chicago, where Howard began working on the Manhattan Project as a staff member of the Metallurgical Lab at the University of Chicago. In 1944 Howard joined the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory to continue work on the Manhattan Project. He and Mary moved to Los Alamos, New Mexico, where they spent the remaining years of the war.

After the war, Howard continued his career as a nuclear physicist. From 1946 until 1959, he worked on research at the General Electric Research Laboratory in Schenectady, N.Y. There he and Mary raised their daughter, who was born in Los Alamos, and their son, who was born after their move to Schenectady.

In 1959 the family moved to California, where Howard was a researcher at General Atomics in La Jolla, near San Diego, until 1972. He then joined Systems, Science and Software, in San Diego, as a senior scientist, finishing his active professional career with retirement in 1978. Following his retirement, he and Mary moved to Hendersonville.

Howard is survived by his daughter, Marilyn Locker, of Scarsdale, N.Y.; his son, William Kratz, of Seattle, Wash.,; and two granddaughters, Martha and Joanna Locker, both of New York City. Howard was predeceased by his beloved wife Mary and his granddaughter Catherine Locker.

The family plans to hold a memorial service at Carolina Village.

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Anita Chapman Rhodes, 51

Anita Chapman Rhodes, 51, of Hendersonville, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 16, 2013.

Anita was born April 1, 1961 in Transylvania County to James and Hazel McKelvey Chapman, who survive her. She embraced a full life and was most excited about her new journey into being a grandmother with the news of twins on the way with her son and his wife. She worked 20 years for the Henderson County School system as an administrative assistant. She enjoyed her service to Mt. Moriah Baptist Church where she attended and served as Church Secretary.

Her love of the outdoors from the mountains to the beach will be remembered by the entire family. She will be missed by all that knew her kindness and generosity.

Graveside Services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 19, 2013, at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church Cemetery, conducted by Rev. Brian Melton. The family will receive friends the evening before, Monday, from 6 to 8 PM at Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband Kevin Rhodes, paternal grandmother Lillian Chapman, a son Bryan and his wife Jessica Rhodes, a daughter Lori Rhodes, a brother Dale Chapman and his wife Kelli and sister Deborah Henry and her husband Nick. Other survivors include a large extended family and group of friends.

She was preceded in death by a brother Michael Chapman.

Flowers are accepted or memorial donations may be directed to Mt Moriah Baptist Church Building Fund.

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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Camill Sentell Brown, 82

Camill Sentell Brown, 82, went to be with her lord on March 14, 2013 from injuries suffered
from a fall.

She was born in Hendersonville to Juno Israel Sentell and Samuel E. Sentell and
was the wife of the late William (Bill) Brown.

Camill graduated from Hendersonville High School (1949) and Blanton's Business College. As a
dedicated career woman she worked at Garrett Ford and Bryan Easler Ford for over more than years.
Camill attended services at both Shaw's Creek Baptist Church and the First United Methodist
Church. Camill was the past president of the Soroptimist Club, and was a member of the
American Legion Auxiliary, the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and a fun loving member of the Red Hat
Society. Camill loved people and was on the go until the last days of her life.

Camill is survived by a step-son Jake Brown of Tampa Florida, a sister Barbara Johnson of
Hendersonville, a niece Cheryl Isleib and husband Jeff, a niece Tammi Neill and husband Roy and
great nephew Drake English all of Hendersonville. Camill is also survived by many friends who
were very special to her.

A memorial service will be at Thos. Shepherd's Church Street Chapel at 11 a.m. Monday, March 18, 2013, with visitation at 10 a.m. The Pastor W.W. (Bill) Carpenter of Shaws Creek Baptist Church will
officiate along with Pastor Dan Martin of First United Methodist Church.

In lieu of Flowers, the family feels the most appropriate memorials would be to the "Fishes and
Loaves Food Pantry" at the Etowah United Methodist Church, Four Seasons Hospice or the
"Meals on Wheels " program at the Henderson County Council on Aging.

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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Andries H. J. “Dries” Jansma, 81

FLAT ROCK — Andries H. J. "Dries" Jansma, 81, of Flat Rock, passed away Wednesday, March 13, 2013, at Sunnybrook Assisted Living Home.

Dries was born in Arnhem, Netherlands, on March 21, 1931. As a young boy, he and his family lived through 5 years of German occupation. He was educated in Arnhem and Apeldoorn, Netherlands, and then served two years as a cadet officer in the Dutch Army. Following his Army service, he completed his studies at the Dutch Institute of Banking. His first professional employment was in the international department of Handelsbank, a large Dutch banking concern. His first assignment was in Handelsbank's Tokyo office.

While in Tokyo, Dries met his wife-to-be, Nancy who was employed at the Canadian Embassy. Following their marriage in Tokyo in 1957, they embarked upon a 55-year life's journey highlighted by a successful career in international banking and punctuated by a 25-year commitment to public and civic service in Flat Rock and Henderson County. During the past two and a half decades, Dries served as Board member and President of the Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra, member of the Board of Trustees and President of Historic Flat Rock, Board member of the Flat Rock Greenways Committee, Chairman of the Village of Flat Rock Ice Cream Committee, Flat Rock's representative to the Henderson County Historic Resources Commission, and member of the board of the Flat Rock Playhouse. He played an important vital role in the success for a number of years of the Kenmure Country Club's golf event annually held in conjunction with Kenmure Fights Cancer.
In addition to his numerous formal positions to which he gave unstintingly of his time, devotion and good counsel, Dries was always giving of his time and encouragement to each person he met whether in the Kenmure community or Henderson County.

His lifelong hobbies included model trains, stamp collecting, extensive travel and in particular the history of WWII. As a 13 year old he and his family were forced to evacuate their native city of Arnhem on the Rhine River where fierce fighting between the Allies and Germans occurred in the 8 day Operation Market Garden battle in September 1944.

Dries is survived by his loving wife Nancy, daughter Pamela, son-in-law Glen Mattioli and grandchildren Kaia and Eli Mattioli.

For those wishing to honor Dries, a celebration of his life will be held at Kenmure Country Club from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, March 17, 2013.

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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Phillip Jason Bell, 35

Jason Bell, 35, passed away unexpectedly March 13, 2013, in his home in Hendersonville.

Jason was born Sept. 2, 1977, in Buncombe County. He is survived by his resilient daughter Katie Delude, his loving parents Bruce and Melba Bell, his grandmother Virginia Bell, his brother Shannon Bell and wife Kristal Bell, his sister Cricket King and husband Billy King, and his brother Eric Pace and wife Kelly Pace.

Jason was graduated from Appalachian State University with a bachelor of computer science in 1999. He has worked at Agilysys since that time developing modern software. Jason's life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by him understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. His warm heart and caring soul was always out to help others, he always put others first in lieu of himself. A better friend could and did not exist.

He was always surrounded by loved ones, and always enjoyed spending quality time with them.

His interests included family, friends, music, and artwork.

Visitation for friends and family will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday, March 17, 2013, at Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Monday, March 18, 2013, at Thos. Shepherd & Son's Church Street Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hendersonville Bear Cats Band, in which Katie is a dedicated member.

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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Reggie “Bob” Seagraves, 78

Reggie "Bob" Seagraves, 78, of Hendersonville left this life March 11, 2013.

He was the son of the late Reggie "Jack" and Pauline Seagraves.

Bob recently stated that he has lived 78 years and worked 75 of them. He was a hard worker and passed that on to his children and grandchildren. He owned and operated Palmetto Upholstery for 24 years. Bob had a gift for gab and enjoyed working with his customers.

Preceded in death by his parents and sister Sue, Bob leaves his beloved wife of 45 years, Katrena. He also leaves his sons, Eddie (Kim), and Billy (Gisele) Seagraves; daughters, Vicki (Mark) Witbeck, Julie (Paul) Greenlee, and Jenny (Jonathan) Gonzalez; grandchildren, Kelly, Maghan, Logan, Paul, Shane, Craig, Jake, Mark, Sara Kate, Hannah, Gabe, Daniel, Sarah, Bryce, Chandler, Livy, Lynn Marie, Dallas, and Dustin; sisters, Dora Landrum, and Francis Rhoney; brothers, L.T. (Dot), Grady (Vinetta) and Wayne (Marlene) Seagraves; many nieces and nephews; and dear friends from the community and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Bob loved his family and was happiest when he was surrounded by his grandchildren. They will miss their dear Papa.

Giving to the end, Bob asked that there be no services for him. Instead, he would be honored to have donations, in lieu of flowers, made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, as a memorial of his life.

An online guest book and sympathy card are available at www.shulerfuneralhome.com.

Shuler Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Faye Kirby Shuler, 67

Faye Kirby Shuler, 67, of Hendersonville passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2013, at her home after a courageous 16-month battle with cancer.

She was born in Florence County, S.C., daughter of the late Alton Kirby and Sybil McKay Kirby. She and her husband, Ron, lived several years in the Florence and Darlington areas before moving to Hendersonville in January of 1976. She had been a resident of Henderson County for 37 years. While in Darlington, S.C., Faye was director of medical records for Coleman-Aimar Hospital. She enjoyed volunteering her time, finding special meaning in the work she did for a number of years with Trend Mental Health Services where she served in mentoring clients one-on-one. She had been a member of Hendersonville First Baptist Church for 36 years

Faye loved her family, and she opened her home graciously and often to friends. She was a passionate student of the arts of hospitality and of gourmet cooking. Faye was also a talented artist and especially enjoyed working with watercolors. As her daughters grew up, she made their home a gathering place that was full of beauty, warmth, traditions, and laughter.

Faye was extremely instrumental in assisting her husband in establishing Shuler Funeral Home in 1998. The chapel of Shuler Funeral Home is named Kirby Memorial Chapel as a tribute to Faye and her parents.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Rutledge E. "Ron" Shuler; two daughters, Heather Shuler Stepp and husband, Christopher, of Flat Rock, and Holly Shuler Ollis and husband, Jeffrey, of Greensboro; two grandsons, Samuel Rutledge Stepp and Micah Wade Ollis; three granddaughters, Kirby Nichole Ollis, Celeste Leslea Ollis, and Lilly Margaret Ollis; two sisters, Elizabeth Tart and her husband, Thomas, and Annie Mae Broach and her husband, Ralph; one brother, Alton Kirby, Jr., and wife, Judy, all of Florence, S.C. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Lillie Mae Shuler and sister-in-law, Lynda Shuler Caughman, both of Lexington, S.C., and by several nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. She was predeceased by her nephew, Christopher Bonham Caughman of Lexington.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 16, 2013, at the Hendersonville First Baptist Church. The Revs. Wally Shamburger and Ryan Pack will officiate. Burial will follow at Oakdale Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 - 8 p.m. Friday, March 15, in the Kirby Memorial Chapel of Shuler Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Four Seasons Compassion for Life, 571 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731, or to Hendersonville First Baptist Church, 312 5th Ave W., Hendersonville, NC 28739.

To sign the online register book, please visit www.shulerfuneralhome.com.

Shuler Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Cecelia Lindke, 94

Cecelia Lindke, 94, was born Jan. 12, 1919, and born to eternal life, March 6, 2013.

Born in Port Huron, Michi., to Fred Gillett and Alvera Herring Gillett, she married Stewart Lindke, who died in 2005. Cecelia and Stewart retired from Michigan where he was a General Motors dealer. They moved to Venice and Englewood, Fla., where they enjoyed retirement, family, and friends.

She was mother to 5: Diane Mary who died at birth, Janet Carol, who died in 1993, and living daughters, Mary Low of Greenville, S.C., Paula Ziegler of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and Ann Steele of Atlanta. Son-in-law Thomas Low was the son she never had, and she loved him like a son. She had 14 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Family was everything to her. The family is enjoying knowing that she is at peace and with her beloved Stewart and daughters Janet and Diane in the loving arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Jackson Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the family.

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Jamie Gartner Moody

Jamie Gartner Moody, 36, of Hendersonville, died at the Elizabeth House on Thursday, March 7, 2013. She was born in Troy, N.Y., on April 2, 1976, one of two daughters of Michael Allen and Elizabeth Porter Gartner who now reside in Hendersonville. She was preceded in death by her sister, Gillian Gartner.

She was a graduate of Mechanicville High School in Mechanicville, N.Y. and University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a business degree in hospitality management. She worked at Shefter and Fertik Periodontist office as the correspondence coordinator.

In addition to her parents she is survived by the love of her life, Christopher Moody. They were married on September 14, 2002 on the beach in Snead's Ferry. She is also survived by her two children, her son, Adam Christopher Moody, age 8, and her daughter, Riley Gillian Moody, age 5; her brother, Noah Gartner of Brookfield, IL; her mother-in-law, Connie Moody, and her father-in-law, Robert Moody of Hendersonville.

Jamie was a devoted wife and mother. She loved to laugh and enjoyed playing with her children, taking them to the park, going out to dinner, watching movies, cuddling on the couch with "Chris", and always had an endless supply of hugs and kisses

A memorial service in celebration of Jamie's life will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2013 at First Baptist Church, Hendersonville, with Dr. Ryan Pack officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

Memorial donations may be made to the Adam and Riley Moody donation fund at any Wells Fargo Bank.

A register book is available online 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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Mrs. Vera Elizabeth Chisolm Taylor

Mrs. Vera Elizabeth Chisolm Taylor, 97, of Hendersonville, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2013.

What a special life Vera Taylor gave to so many people. She was a gift to all who knew her. She will be missed as a family anchor, a mother, a grandmother, great-grandmother, a friend and above all, one of those giants in life that was such a pleasure to know and befriend. Her unconditional love and contributions to her family were enormous. She was a giant icon of loyalty, trust, love, humility and friendship — a disciple of the Lord as every day of her life she was a witness to the Ten Commandments. The Lord has placed his arms around her and she has won the battle defeating death through Jesus Christ.

Vera Taylor, our beloved mother, grandmother, and dearest friend to many, passed very peacefully on March 10th at the home of daughter, Grace Unruh, with all of her daughters by her bedside. In her youth she was Miss Coastal Carolina and a Watermelon Queen. At age 50 she learned to water ski on Lake Lure and at 95 she even rode a camel. She lived a very full life and enjoyed living independently in her apartment at Spring Arbor West until just her last two weeks when she moved to be with her family and was admitted to home care through Four Seasons Hospice.

She was born on July 8, 1915, one of five children of the late Lillian and Robert Chisolm. She grew up in Varnville, S.C., graduated from Coker College, and taught school in Bamberg, S.C. She met the love of her life, Clifton Bradley Taylor, when she was attending a summer school session at Wake Forest. Their love grew and they were married in Brad's senior year of dental school before moving to Hendersonville in 1940. They were married for over 68 years. Her outgoing personality, sense of humor, and love for helping others led her to be involved with many groups and civic organizations.

She was a founding member of the YMCA and a member of her First Baptist Church for over 70 years. Vera was one of the oldest members of the Hope Sunday School Class. An accomplished musician, she played both piano and organ while still in high school for her Varnville, S.C. church. She taught school and helped to open her husband's new dental office as they began their practice in 1940 above the old Economy Drug Store on Main Street. She was a founder of the Hendersonville Cotillion Club, a tireless worker for the Junior Welfare Club, and a leader of the Garden Club, the Book Club, and the Girl Scouts. She helped to organize the Medical/Dental Auxiliary of Hendersonville and volunteered at Interfaith Ministry and as a Pink Lady at the old Patten and later Pardee Hospitals.

Her family always came first and was her pride and joy. Values mattered to her: honesty, integrity, and love just to name a few. Those values combined to display in every part of her life, on every day that she lived, an infectious spirit of happiness and a positive outlook on life that God blessed her with. Books will not be written about her but her spirit will live on through the lives that she touched. You will know those persons when you meet them — they will share the quality of hope, a positive outlook, and will strive to bring joy to every moment.

She is preceded in death by sisters Lillian Logan and Lydia Campbell as well as brothers Lee and Robert Chisolm. At 97 years of age, she was the oldest remaining member of her entire family. She is survived by her four daughters, Mrs. Barbara Bond (George) of Hendersonville, Mrs. Grace Unruh (Darryl, deceased) of Asheville, Mrs. Martha Foster (Dan) of Reidsville, and Mrs. Ginny Parker (Jim) of Hendersonville as well as Merete Ahern (Frank) , a Hendersonville resident who was a foreign exchange student that became like a daughter to the family. Grandchildren include Beth Wright, Marjorie Heskett, Cam Parker, Cory Parker, Brad Foster, Kim Deal, Dana Maddux, Kim Kinsella, Darryl Unruh Jr., Jill Earwood, Crystal Pace, and Crystal Unruh as well as 20 great-grand children and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who made Vera's life so comfortable since her husband's departure six years ago, particularly the staff of Spring Arbor West, where she resided in her own apartment and Four Seasons Hospice whose staff was a tremendous asset to the family during Vera's final days.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 15, 2013, at First Baptist Church, Hendersonville with the Rev. Wally Shamburger and the Rev. Robert Fain officiating. The family will receive friends at a reception at the Cedars immediately following the service with a private interment by the family. The family requests contributions in lieu of flowers to the Community Foundation of Hendersonville, P.O. Box 1108, Hendersonville, N.C. 28793 or Four Seasons Hospice, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, N.C., 28731.

A register book is available online for family and friends by visiting www.thoshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.

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William (Bill) C. Meadows, 75

William (Bill) C. Meadows, 75, of Hendersonville joined his Lord on March 9th, 2013.

He was born in Charlotte on Oct. 28, 1937, to proud parents John Clayton Meadows and Sadie Britt Meadows.

He was a 1959 graduate of Berea College Foundation School, and later continued his education at Mars Hill Collage.

Bill was employed at City Cab Co. from 1963-1971. After leaving Cab Co. was employed by Duke Energy where he retired in 1993.

Bill proudly held the office of Secretary /Treasurer for the Duke Energy retiree committee.

He was survived by two brothers, Wade Meadows of Knoxville, Tenn., and John Meadows of Hendersonville, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and the most amazing group of friends.

He was preceded in death by parents and a special step-mother Eloise Meadows as well as a sister, Betty Strickland.

Visitation will precede the service at 2 p.m. Wednesday March 13, 2013, at Thos. Shepherd's Church Street Chapel. Service will be officiated by Rev. Mike Engle.

A Special thanks to all the Faithful friends who enlightened his life.

To know Uncle Bill was to love!

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

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Mary Virginia Cavanaugh Fendt

Mary Virginia Cavanaugh Fendt of the Brian Center of Hendersonville died where she
had been a resident since 2003.

Mrs. Fendt had formerly lived in Durham where she retired after 30+ years from Duke University Medical Center. The bulk of her employment was in the House Staff Office or Graduate Medical Education at Duke.

Mrs. Fendt was born on June 16, 1930 in Kalamazoo, Mich. She was the second daughter of Alfred J. and Violet R. Cavanaugh. She attended several colleges including Taylor University where she met and later married Paul Fendt.

She is survived by two children: Her son, Fred Fendt and his fiancee, Joanne, of Lake Odessa, Mich., and her daughter, Mary K. and her husband Denny Thompson of Hendersonville. The apple of her eye was her only grandchild, Dillon Thompson. In addition, two nieces and their families in Michigan survive her: Patricia and Fred Duever of Elkton and Jan and Norm Ferguson of St. Joseph. Mary was predeceased by her lifelong friend, Pi Huse in March 2011. Several very dear lifelong friends survive her: Norma Beadle Johnston, Ramona Lucht, and Debbie Harris.

Mary C. Fendt's family would like to thank Dr. Don Culver and Dr. Larry Russell, the Brian Center staff and the Four Season's staff for their expert care and support while she was at the Brian Center.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 15, 2013, at the First United Methodist Church in Hendersonville.

Jackson Funeral Service and Crematory in Hendersonville, NC is handling the arrangements.

Donations may be made to: Carmelite Nuns, Carmel of the Sacred Heart, 430 Laurel Avenue, Hudson, WI 54016-1688 or to the charity of one's choice.

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

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