Kenneth Gregory Hudgins, Sr.

Kenneth Gregory Hudgins, Sr., 62, of Checotah, OK, formerly of Edneyville, passed away Saturday, August 4, 2012 in Checotah.

Born in Hendersonville, he was the son of the late Fred L. and Phyllis E. Hudgins of Edneyville. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his aunt Vinia Hudgins.

He was a graduate of Edneyville High School and Craven Community College. He served 5 years in the United States Navy as a medic, and later became a registered nurse and worked at various hospitals across North Carolina, retiring from Charles George VA Hospital in Asheville in 2005. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed raising cattle, hunting, and fishing; his other hobbies included traveling, movies, and photography.

He is survived by his daughter, Wendy Smith; his son, Kenneth Gregory Hudgins II and daughter-in-law, Leah Chang; his grandchildren, Winter Hudgins and Logan Smith; and his brother Vincent Hudgins. He is also survived by his first wife, Judy L. Durham; his second wife, Katharine Parrish; and many loving family, friends, and pets.

A funeral service in celebration of his life will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 16, 2012, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Edneyville with The Rev. Harriet G. Shands officiating. Burial will follow at St. Paul's Community Cemetery. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall afterwards.

The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, August 15, 2012, at Thos. Shepherd & Son in Hendersonville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Checotah Animal Shelter, c/o Kate Paris, P.O. Box 1083, Checotah, OK 74426 (www.checotahshelter.com).

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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Charlotte Carman

HIGHLANDS — Charlotte Carman died on July 24, 2012, at The Fidelia Eckerd Living Center in Highlands after a long period of failing health.

She was born, in Springfield, Massachusetts, May 16, 1924, the daughter of Ernest Westervelt Carman and Jessie Caton Carman.

Her older sister, Ann Gordon Carman Peavey, of Hendersonville,  survives her. Three older brothers, John Westervelt Carman, Edward Caton Carman, and James Russell Carman, predeceased her.

Miss Carman lived many years in Springfield and Wilbraham, Mass.. She attended the Springfield public schools and graduated from Classical High School. After graduation in 1946 from American International College in Springfield, for five years she worked for MassMutual Life Insurance Co., in the group department. In 1951, looking for something more rewarding to do with her life, she returned to AIC to take the courses necessary to prepare for a teaching career. At the end of one year she received another degree, an MA in Education.

Her teaching career began with the third grade at the Armory Street School in Springfield. A few years later she transferred to Springfield's Mary O. Pottenger School to teach the first grade. While at Pottenger, she helped pioneer the teaching of the controversial "New Math."

Miss Carman was active in several education associations: the NEA, SEA, PTA, and the Association for Childhood Education. She served on several special committees, including the social studies textbook selection committee, and held office in some of them. Miss Carman was always eager to learn what was new and important in her field, and adopt best practices.

In 1971 she was invited to join Delta Kappa Gamma, an honorary society for teachers, and she remained an active member the rest of her life.

After teaching for 29 years in Springfield, Miss Carman took early retirement and moved to Hendersonville in 1982. The mark of a true teacher being that she never ceases to teach, Charlotte spent the next 10 years volunteering at Bruce Drysdale Elementary School, as a reading tutor in the Title I program. Only when that program ended did she stop teaching.

Her interests were many. She was a long-time member of the Trinity Presbyterian Church of Hendersonville, where she sang soprano in the choir. For many years hiked with the Carolina Mountain Club as well as with local hiking groups. She was active in the Hendersonville Library's activities. As a life member of the New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEGHS), she took many trips with this group to the United Kingdom for genealogical research. Charlotte was very active in the General Society of Mayflower Descendants and in the National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR).

With her sister Ann, she traveled on NSDAR business to many locations in Europe, Mexico, and other Latin American countries. Of all these organizations, the one closest to Charlotte's teacher's heart was the Tamassee DAR School in Tamassee SC. Charlotte, knowing that a stable home and dedicated teachers are crucial to a child's security and functioning, worked hard to raise funds for this residential school for children in crisis. The family asks that anyone wishing to make any gift in Charlotte's memory, rather than sending flowers, make a contribution to:Tamassee DAR School, P.O. Box 8, Tamassee, SC 29686.

Charlotte was a sweet and affectionate aunt to her three generations of nephews and nieces. Even after years of progressive disability from Parkinson's Disease, her mind and memory remained sharp. She delighted in visits from friends and relatives, and she showed the keenest interest in every branch of her extended family.

A memorial service for family only will be held in the summer of 2013.

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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Janet Baker Chaudruc

HENDERSONVILLE — Janet Baker Chaudruc, 87, of Hendersonville, was taken to be with her Lord on August 5, 2012. She passed away after a valiant and graceful battle with COPD. She was supported in her journey by her family, as well as the kind staff of Carolina Village and Four Seasons Compassion for Life.

She was born Janet H. Baker on August 28, 1924 to the late Dorothy and Col. Herbert Baker at Fort Sheridan Army Base in Illinois. Col. Baker served our country as a member of the Army Medical Corps during World War I and Mrs. Baker was an English teacher. Their military family was stationed in Fort Sill, OK, Fort Benning, GA, in Hawaii and Fort Hoyle, MD.

She was a graduate of the Cathedral School of Mary's in Garden City, NY. She also attended Mt. Holyoke College in Massachusetts and graduated with honors in French. She was employed by the French Cultural Service as well as by the Socony Mobil Oil Company.

In 1946, she married Jerald P. Euster, a United States Naval Pilot. They were stationed in Groton, CT as well as Pensacola, FL. He later served as a pilot for the humanitarian, Dr. Thomas Dooley, helping the sick in third world countries. Mr. Euster died in an airplane crash in 1962. They had one daughter, Margaret Euster, who was born in New London, CT.

In 1964, Mrs. Chaudruc married Juan E. Chaudruc, a widower with 2 children, Denis and Lusandre. Mr. and Mrs. Chaudruc traveled extensively as part of his work as a consulting engineer. They lived in Chappaqua, NY, until they retired to Hendersonville in 1972. Sadly, Mr. Chaudruc succumbed to Alzheimer's disease in 1985.

During her years in Hendersonville, Mrs. Chaudruc volunteered for many organizations. She helped to found the Hendersonville Alzheimer's Support Group and was recognized for her 18 years of service by both the Alzheimer's Association of Western Carolina and by North Carolina Governor, James Martin.

In 1993, she completed a program of Theological Education for Ministry at The University of the South, School of Theology. She became a professed member of the 3rd Order, Society of St. Francis, a world-wide religious order of the Episcopal Communion.

Mrs. Chaudruc was an active member of her church, St. John in the Wilderness, where she was a member of the choir, alter guild, a lay reader, chalice-bearer, President of the Woman's Group and the Medical Loan Closet.

She is survived by her daughter, Margaret Sauer of Fredonia, NY; step-daughter, Lusandre Chaudruc of Pennsburg, PA; and a step-daughter-in-law, Jeannene Chaudruc, of Chicago, IL. She was blessed to have six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully requests that memorial contributions be made to St. John in the Wilderness Church, 1905 Greenville Highway, P.O. Box 185, Flat Rock, NC 28731 or to the Alzheimer's Association, 31 College Place, Suite 105A, Asheville, NC 28801.

A memorial service in celebration of Janet's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 14, 2012 at St. John in the Wilderness with the Rev. John A. Morton officiating.

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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Sgt. S. Matthew Baynard

NAPLES — Sgt. S. Matthew Baynard, 23, of Naples, died on Sunday, July 22, 2012 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington State.

A native of Henderson County he lived in Naples for 18 years, graduating from Heritage Hall International School before deciding to serve and defend our country in the United States Army.

He was a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, a member of Army Airborne Reconnaissance Special Forces, Charlie Company, 3rd Squadron, 38th Calvary Regiment, 201st Battlefield Surveillance Brigade, I Corp. He was awarded the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars, the Army Service Ribbon, an Overseas Service Ribbon, two overseas bars, Airborne Wings and an Expert Marksmanship badge.

He was of the Baptist faith and a member at Oak Forest Baptist Church. He loved to go fishing, his dogs, his family and the Carolina Tar Heels! He was a five time All-American wrestler, belonging to the Strong & Courageous Wrestling Club in Hendersonville.

He is survived by his loving wife, Katie Chalker Baynard of Puyallup, WA; his son, Winston Baynard of the home; his parents, S. Randall Baynard and Cheryl Sinyard Baynard of Naples; his sister, Zebbi Baynard Sampler and her husband, Jason, of Naples and his brother Alec Baynard of the home. He is also survived by his Mamaw Jerry, his Poppy Harold Myers, his Gramma Judy, his Popa K.W. Wright, his Gramma Lou Baynard, his Mamaw Nina, his Papaw C. Don Reynolds; his aunt Cheree and uncle Mat Tallant, his aunt April Baynard; his nephews, Rome and Farris; his nieces, Adrienne and Ava; his cousins, Cody, Tyler and Jace Myers, Autumn and Jayde Tallant.

He had a contagious smile and will be truly missed by all that knew and loved him.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 31, 2012, at Naples Baptist Church with the Rev. Paul B. Chandler. Jr and the Rev. Richard Merck officiating. Burial will follow at Shepherd Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, July 30, 2012, at Thos. Shepherd's Church Street Chapel. A memorial service will be held at Joint Base Lewis-McChord with service information being announced at a later date.

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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Ruth Brown Mashburn, 103

HENDERSONVILLE — Ruth Brown Mashburn, 103, of Hendersonville, passed away Friday, July 20, 2012 at Sunnybrook Assisted Living.

She was a western North Carolina native and member of First Baptist Church of Hendersonville.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David T. Mashburn Sr., three sisters and a brother.

She is survived by her son, David T. Mashburn Jr., and his wife, Mary and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at Green Hills Cemetery, 25 New Leicester Highway, Asheville NC with Rev. Wally Shamburger officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made to Four-Seasons Compassion for Life, 571 South Allen Rd. Flat Rock, NC 28731

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 Lucille “Lucy” Heffner Holmes

LAUREL PARK — Mary Lucille "Lucy" Heffner Holmes, 88, of Laurel Park formally of Mills River, died at her residence on Sunday evening, July 15, 2012, after a period of declining health. She is a native and life long resident of Henderson County and a daughter of the late Bonnie Louise Nichols and Albert Granville Heffner.

She was married to the late Thomas James Holmes who died in 1999. She was also preceded in death by four brothers; Thomas Granville Heffner, Joe Lee Heffner, Bobby Sherrill Heffner, and Ray Ward Heffner; her sister, Elizabeth Heffner Orr.

She was a 1941 graduate of the former Mills River High School where she was the class Salutatorian. She attended Berea College in Berea, KY for two years. Upon her return to Mills River she then joined the Ecusta Paper Corporation in Pisgah Forest as a librarian and as the Assistant Recreational Director. Born with a beautiful voice and plenty of rhythm she soon endeared herself to the many musical activities that Ecusta offered to its employees under the direction of John Eversman. She traveled with the Ecusta Band as a vocalist including a trip to New York City as well as performing in many local venues. With a song in her heart and her love for the stage she enjoyed summer stock with the blossoming Flat Rock summer theatre of Robroy and Leona Farguar as a Vagabond Player. She made her film debut in "This is the Lord's Acre" in 1959, which dramatized the international Lord's Acre project of the Farmer's Federated filmed in the Mills River Valley.

Her love for being around young people endeared her to a 12-year-old volunteer, Kathy Quinn Brown, during her role as director of the Jr. Red Cross Chapter in Buncombe County. Their friendship has thrived and provided them both with more than 50 years of memories.

After her marriage in November of 1954, she settled into her cherished role of a doting mother, not only to her daughters, but later her grandchildren and to the many students whose lives she touched as a substitute teacher for more than 30 years in the Henderson County and Hendersonville City school systems. She continued to enjoy music as a charter member of the Hendersonville Chorale as well as a choir member of Mills River United Methodist Church and First Congregational Church for numerous years. She returned to the stage in 1979 in Hendersonville Little Theatre's production of "H.M.S. Pinafore" where she was perfectly cast as "Buttercup." She was a faithful member of the Mills River Chapter of the Ladies Red Hat Society, and was an instrumental volunteer in obtaining petition signatures to help with the incorporation of Mills River. She was proud of her Southern heritage, and growing up during the Depression provided her the ability to take weeks to eat a candy bar. She never met a stranger and found that diversity of people, different cultures and beliefs was simply a learning opportunity. She enjoyed reading and writing poetry and respected the solace that listening to nature brought her.

She is survived by her three daughters, Holly H. Yoest and her husband, Bill, of Raleigh, Melody H. Shepherd and her husband, Thos. R. of Flat Rock, Cherie R. Holmes and her husband, Mark Sandborn, of Asheville; her two granddaughters, Scarlett B. Pittillo of Hendersonville, Ashley E. Vaeth of Raleigh; her grandson, Tyler J. Sandborn of Winston-Salem; her great-grandson, Roman W. Pierson of Hendersonville; her step-granddaughter, Audrey Y. Lysko and her husband Paul of Cary, and many nieces and nephews.

The loving attentive care by Dr. James J. Caserio and his entire staff provided "Miss Lucy" with the ability to stay in her home, in conjunction with the professional and caring staff of Spring Arbor West as well as the round the clock care of her Bayada nurses. She felt very loved and comfortable

A funeral service will be held at noon on Saturday, July 21, 2012, at St. James Episcopal Church with the Rev. Eunice R. Dunlap officiating. Burial will follow at Shepherd Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Mills River Public Library, 124 Town Center Dr # 1, Mills River, NC 28759.

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

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

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Maxine Champion Luther

Flat Rock — Maxine Champion Luther, 89, of Flat Rock, died on Sunday, July 15, 2012. at Hendersonville Health and Rehabilitation.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors will announce arrangements.

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Panagiota Anastasakis

FAIRVIEW — Panagiota "Penny" Anastasakis, 91 died Thursday, July 12, 2012.

Born in Karitsa, Evrytanias, Greece, she was the daughter of the late Demetrios and Efrosini Dimopoulos. She married Demetrios Anastasakis in 1945 in Klafsion, Evrytanias. In 1966 she immigrated to the U.S. and settled in Asheville, NC as a homemaker.

Mrs. Anastasakis was preceded in death by her husband James. She is survived by her son Ted Sakis and wife Kiki; her daughter Helen Sakkas and husband Angelo; daughter Frances Copanos and husband Lefteris.

She is also survived by grandchildren, Joann Christodoulias and husband Jimmy, Yiota Gianopoulos and husband Sammy, Kosta Sakkas and wife Virginia; three great-grandchildren, Roxanne Gianopoulos, Angela and John Christodoulias; sister, Theodora Katsigiannis and brother Christos Dimopoulos of Athens, Greece; brother -in-law Andrew Sakis and wife Eoanna ; several nephews and nieces.

The family will receive friends at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 227 Cumberland Avenue, Asheville, NC 28814 on Sunday, July 15, 2012 from 6 to 8 p.m., with prayer (Trisagion) at 7 p.m.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, July 16, 2012 at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church. Burial will follow at Shepherd Memorial Park, Hendersonville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Orthodox Church.

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

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Nancy Elizabeth Walker

FLAT ROCK — Nancy Elizabeth Walker, 69, of Flat Rock, died on Saturday, July 14, 2012 at her home. A native of Weirton, WV she was born to the late Charles Aperfine and Wilma Seaman. She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Mike and Joe Aperfine.

For the past 11 years she worked in Wal-Mart deli on Four-Seasons Blvd. More then anything she enjoyed the joys of life. She was a loving wife, mother and friend who enriched every life she touched. She will be truly missed by all that knew and loved her.

She is survived by her loving husband of 11 years, Terry Walker; her three children, Kim Corbitt of Asheville, Tracy Hall and her husband, Carl, of Flat Rock, Brian Jones and his wife, Tina, of Miami, FL; 13 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren with the eighth on the way. She is also survived by a brother, Charles Aperfine of Destin, FL; five sister-in-laws and special friends, Sharon Walker, Kay Miller, Sandra Buckner, Tammy McWhirt, and Sharon Gilbert

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 17, 2012, at Thos. Shepherd's Church Street Chapel with Reverend Jim Parks and Reverend Scott Pace officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

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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Maria Ann Sullivan

Maria Ann Sullivan, 85, of Hendersonville, died on Saturday, July 7, 2012, at her home. A native of Lakewood, NY, she was born on Aug.t 12, 1926, to the late Arvid Mortensen and Anastasia Morrissey Mortensen.

She retired from IBM after 20 years of faithful service. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, enjoyed Royal Family and Crossword Puzzles.

She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Thomas E. Sullivan Sr.; her daughters, Linda Godfrey of Hendersonville, Maura LaRocca and her husband Louis of Kent, Conn., Anne Miscoski and her husband Walt of Bristol, Tenn.; her sons, Thomas E. Sullivan, Jr. and his wife, Kim, of Hendersonville, Michael Sullivan and his companion, Joy Cook of Concord; her grandchildren, Christopher & Jennifer Whaley, Sally and Nicholas Sullivan, Eric LaRocca, and Robbie Miscoski. She is also survived by Regina Watkins, his CNA, friend, companion and caregiver who was invaluable the last six months. The family would also like to extend there gratitude to the wonderful staff from Four Seasons Compassion for Life.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. today, July 11, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church. Burial will be held at 2 p.m. today at the Western North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Immaculata Catholic School, 711 North Buncombe Street, Hendersonville, NC 28791.

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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Gladys Carmen Miller

Gladys Carmen Miller passed away July 9, 2012 at the age of 98 in Hendersonville, where she moved in September 2007 to be with her family. She was born on Sept. 13, 1913, in Bartlesville, Okla., to Elmer Elnor and Bessie Lee Campbell Breneman. She is preceded in death by her husband, one son, one brother, and four sisters.

Carmen attended Pittsburg Senior High School in Pittsburg, Kan., for one year before moving to Vicksburg, Miss., to finish school. She married Thomas Paul Miller in Shreveport, La., on Jan. 25, 1931. Thomas preceded her death on July 31, 1987. They had one son, William Robert Miller, who died July 8, 1994.

In April of 1941, Carmen joined the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Pittsburg, Kansas, where she served as Deaconate, taught Sunday School in the Junior Department for twenty-five years, was Financial Secretary for three years, served on the Stewardship Committee for a number of years, was a member of the hand bell choir, and served as chairman of the Mary Martha group, a sewing circle dedicated to producing items for charity, for fourteen years. Carmen also served as a volunteer of the Red Cross blood mobile for a number of years. She was also a mentor to elementary students at Lakeside School in Pittsburg, Kansas.

Carmen is survived by two grandsons, Mark Miller of Hendersonville, Matt Miller of St. Simons, GA; one granddaughter, Jill Wells of Knoxville, TN; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; five nieces; and four nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00AM on Thursday, July 12, 2012 at Mills River United Methodist Church Cemetery with Reverend Paul Thompson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Carmen's name to the American Red Cross, Western North Carolina Region, 100 Edgewood Road, Asheville, NC 28804.

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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Ruth Margaret Justus Hill Waters, 84

Ruth Margaret Justus Hill Waters, 84, of Hendersonville, NC, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 9, 2012, at United Hospital Center in Bridgeport, WV, with her loving family by her side.

Ruth was a lifelong resident of Hendersonville and was a devout Christian by faith. She was born on July 17, 1927 in Henderson County, NC. She was the daughter of the late Hobson Volney Justus and Susan Margaret Fletcher Justus.

Ruth is survived by two daughters, Susan Hill Shepherd and husband Brooks of Charlotte, NC and Shirley Hill Ogden and husband Dr. Gerald of Bridgeport; two grandchildren, Brooks E. Shepherd, III (Tres') and Courtney Shepherd Perkins and her husband Wright all of Charlotte, NC; a sister Rebecca Latt and husband John of Hendersonville, along with several nieces and nephews and her devoted pet Coocoo.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband; Paul Z. Hill (former sheriff of Henderson County for many years); three brothers Victor, William and Preston and one sister Annette Starnes.
Ruth owned and operated a beauty salon for several years in Hendersonville, and was an avid bridge player and bowler in her younger years. Ruth loved her family deeply and was devoted to her two grandchildren. She spent her later years at her home with her dog who was her loving companion, spending many hours' playing cards on her computer. Excellent cooking was one of the many gifts that she possessed, and Ruth enjoyed preparing delicious meals for her family and friends.

Family and friends will be received at the Jackson Funeral Home, 1101 Greenville Highway, Hendersonville, NC Saturday, July 14th from 1 p.m. until time of service at 3 p.m. with the Reverend H. Alexander Viola officiating. Interment will follow at Shepherd's Memorial Park in Hendersonville, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in her memory to: First Baptist Spartanburg, 250 East Main St. Spartanburg, SC 29306.

Online Condolences may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com.

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Catherine E. Boggs, 84

Catherine E. Boggs, 84, of Hendersonville passed away Saturday, June 16, 2012.

She was preceded in death by his brother Robert Boggs and her sister Catherine Boggs.

A graveside service will be held 10 a.m. Friday, July 13, 2012, at Lanning-Pittillo Cemetery.

Jackson Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements.

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Peggy Pace Reid Garren

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — Peggy Pace Reid Garren passed away June 30, 2012 at Landmark Hospital in Athens, Georgia.

She was predeceased by her son, William Scott Reid, her parents, Grady and Nora Pace, two sisters, Louise Lamb and Mildred Pace and two brothers, Eddie Pace and Pete Pace who passed away July 1, 2012.

She is survived by two granddaughters, Tiffany Reid and Marie Reid, a great granddaughter, Nevaeh Reid; three sisters, Ruth Edwards, Sara Pressley and Doris Moffitt. Also a very special life long friend, Freddie Mayberry. She also had several special nieces and nephews who loved her very much.

A graveside service will be held 10 a.m. Thursday, July 5, 2012, at Mud Creek Baptist Church with Tim Lawson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please help with funeral expenses in care of Doris Moffitt.

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

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James Earl Thompson (Jim)

James Earl Thompson (Jim), 78, of Hendersonville, passed away on Tuesday, June 26, 2012, in the loving embrace of his wife. After a courageous and dignified five-year battle with cancer he passed from this life peacefully and with dignity into the loving arms of our Lord.

He was born on October 24, 1933 in Carroll County, Virginia to the late James Henry Thompson and Ethel Lummie Spence.

Jim graduated from Guilford College in 1957 and was a veteran of the United States Navy. Jim met and married his soul mate and "the most beautiful woman in the world," Janet Taylor. They married November 14, 1959, "the happiest day of my life."Jim retired in 1988 after a successful career in the oil business. Jim and Janet moved to Hendersonville, NC in 1997 and both became active members of St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church.

He was a loving and loyal husband who cherished his wife. He was a caring and nurturing father who loved his children unconditionally. To his sixteen grandchildren (and an expected great grandchild),who adored him, he was fondly and lovingly known as Paupaw. He placed family above all else and lived everyday of his life that way.

To his family, "adopted families" and friends who enriched Jim's life, he loved you all. You made his time here a blessing and he was grateful to have shared his journey with you.

He is survived by his wife, Janet Taylor Thompson and his four children, James Earl Thompson Jr. of Memphis, Tenn., (wife Cindy and children Lauren Sargent (and husband David), Cameron and Emlyn), Jennifer Eileen Thompson of Winston-Salem, (husband Frank and children Morgan, Brittany and Blake), Joseph Ellis Thompson of Frisco, (wife Tami and children Ellisa and Elijah) and Janet Thompson Barnard of Alpharetta, Ga., (husband Andrew and children Joshua, Jordan, Justin, James, Jessica, Jennifer, Jaxon and Jason).

A memorial service in celebration of his life will take place at 1 p.m. Friday, July 6, 2012, at St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church (1905 Greenville Highway, Flat Rock) with Rev. John A. Morton, Rev. H. Alexander Viola and Deacon Joyce Beschta officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at a reception in the Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to two charities that were close to Jim's heart. They are: Children and Family Resource Center Scholarship Fund (828-698-0674 or www.childrenandfamily.org/support-us/) and Four Seasons Compassion for Life (828-692-6178 or www.fourseasonscfl.org/donate/).

"There can be no love without honor and respect so let me hold your hands and let's soldier on."

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 arrangement.

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Dorothy Vassos

SILVER SPRING, MD: Dorothy Maxwell Vassos, of Silver Spring, MD, died unexpectedly at Renaissance Gardens, on Friday, May 4, 2012. "Dottie" as she was known to her family and friends, was born on October 22, 1922 in Hendersonville to the late George W. and Molly S. Maxwell. She is the widow of Louis S. "Steve" Vassos, and Daniel Guerino, a first husband who died during World War II. One of nine siblings, Dottie is also preceded in death by two brothers, Ralph and Lloyd Maxwell, and three sisters, Evelyn Luttrell, Pauline Clingenpeel, and Gussie Reichle.

Dottie is survived by: two brothers and a sister, Murgle Maxwell, J.Z Maxwell, and Louise Willard; her three children, Denise Moutafis (Timothy), Kim Vassos, and Steven Vassos(Chrissy); three grandchildren, Suzanne Vassos, Alexander Moutafis and Nikolas Moutafis; and much-loved nieces and nephews.

Dottie attended high school in Hendersonville before moving to Washington, D.C. during the war years. In 1947, she married Louis Vassos and eventually settled in Hyattsville, MD, where she made many close relationships with her neighbors and community. After years as a telephone operator, Dottie retired from the C & P Telephone Company, to spend more time gardening and enjoying her family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 29, 2012 at Shepherd Memorial Park's Mausoleum Chapel with Reverend Tim Worthington officiating. Burial will follow at Shepherd Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Riderwood Village, 3110 Gracefield Road, Silver Spring, MD 20904, Attn. Fiona Divecha, Student Scholarship Fund

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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William Mack Glaspy, 90

William Mack Glaspy, 90, of Hendersonville, died on Sunday, June 24, 2012 at the Elizabeth House.  A native and lifelong resident of Henderson County, he was born on March 19, 1922 to the late William Glaspy and Harriet Drake Glaspy. He was also preceded in death by his three brothers, Floyd, Bob, and Walter; his two sisters, Florence and Maude; and his long time companion and friend, Clarice Randall.

He served his country in the United States Army during World War II and was a member of the Hedrick-Rhodes VFW Post #5206. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his daughter, Terri Warwick of Washington State; his sister, Myrtle Livingston of Fletcher; three grandchildren and a special friend, Hazel Randall.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, June 30, 2012 with Reverend Robbie Glaspy officiating.  Burial will follow at Shepherd Memorial Park. A visitation will be held from 6:00PM until 8:00PM on Friday, June 29, 2012 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75231.

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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Charles Woodrow Nelson Sr., 72

Charles Woodrow Nelson Sr., 72, of Hendersonville, passed away Sunday, June 24, 2012, at Park Ridge Hospital after a short illness.

He was the son of the late Carl Woodrow Nelson and Hazel Ann White Nelson and was also preceded in death by a sister, Ann Nix and a grandson, Bobby Elmore.

He had lived in Henderson County for most of his life. He graduated from Edneyville High School where he loved playing football, basketball and baseball. After graduating he enjoyed drag racing then pursued the trucking industry as his lifelong career. He retired in 2009.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Dixie Gilbert Nelson; a son, Charles Woodrow Nelson Jr. and his wife DeOnna Prince Nelson of Hendersonville; two daughters, Tammy Nelson Elmore of Hendersonville and Angela Nelson-Cain of Hendersonville; a brother, Robert Floyd of Hendersonville; a sister, Gail Beddingfield of Hendersonville; six grandchildren, Morgan, Abby, Beverly, Dylan, Alex and Noah; two great grandchildren, Isaiah and Isabella and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 27, 2012, at the Chapel In The Pines of Jackson Funeral Service with the Rev. Ronald Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home and at other times will be at the home.

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

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Edward Russell “Russ” Cullen, 82

Edward "Russ" Cullen was born in Princeton, Kentucky on April 24, 1930. He served in the Army during the Korean Conflict. He spent his career as a City of Miami, Fla., firefighter. He retired from the fire department in 1980 and made Hendersonville his home.

He was predeceased by his daughter, Peggy Cullen.

He is survived by his wife, Carole; his children Sandy Cullen (Glenn), Rusty Cullen, Paul Cullen, Carolyn Cullen (Jay), and his grandson, Michael Cullen (Franzetta) and many, many friends.

A memorial mass will be at 10 a.m. Friday, June 29, 2012 at the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church.

The family will receive friends Thursday night from 7 to 9 p.m. at Jackson Funeral Service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Elizabeth House, 581 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

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

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Edward Russell "Russ" Cullen, 82

FLAT ROCK — Edward Russell "Russ" Cullen, 82, of Hendersonville passed away Saturday, June 23, 2012 at the Elizabeth House.

Jackson Funeral Service and Crematory will announce the arrangements.

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