Michael Edward Marsengill, 80

On March 28, 2019, Michael Edward Marsengill, age 80, of Hendersonville, NC by the providential will of his loving God and Savior, was taken Home to be with Him.

Mike was born in LaGrange, GA in June 1938 and moved to Miami, FL, the city he loved, when he was four years old. He resided in South Florida until 2012 when he moved to Hendersonville, NC.

He was a proud graduate of Miami Senior High School, class of 1956 and a lifelong fan of the University of Miami Hurricanes. In 1965, he married his beloved wife of 53 years, Joan.

Mike began his career with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company in 1964. He later worked for Mass Mutual Life Insurance Company and founded Michael E. Marsengill & Co. in 1980. For the last 27 years of his working career, he worked side by side with his son, Michael, Jr. Mike greatly valued the relationships that he had with his clients.

Over the years, Mike served as a deacon in the Southern Baptist Church and as an elder in the Presbyterian Church in America. He also served as President of the Board and Board Member of Westminster Christian School in Miami, FL and Chairman of the Board and Board Member of Miami Christian College.

Mike said he was one of the most blessed men who ever lived. He trusted Jesus as his Lord and Savior at an early age and was grateful to have had a relationship with Him for most of his life. His love for Jesus and his love for others was evident to all who met him. Mike also enjoyed teaching Sunday School, music, fishing and diving, and University of Miami football.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Joan, his son Michael, Jr. and his wife Stacey; his daughter Angela Ost and her husband Brad; four grandchildren, Michael III, Sarah, and Matthew Marsengill, and Cooper Ost; his brother, J. Daniel Marsengill and his wife Winnelle; and his sister, Patricia Johnson.

We will celebrate his life at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, April 6, 2019 at First Baptist Church of Hendersonville with Rev. Steve Scoggins officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 2:00 P.M. prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in his memory to First Baptist Church of Hendersonville, designated to the Crosswalk after school ministry at 312 5th Avenue West, Hendersonville, NC 28739.

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.

Read More »

Beverly Maybin Stepp, 75

Beverly Maybin Stepp, 75, of Hendersonville died on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at the Elizabeth House. She was born in Columbia, SC; the daughter of the late Lindsay and Lucille Hedden Robinson. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Larry Stepp; a brother, Lindsay Robinson; one sister: Barbara Pickens

She was previously employed by the General Electric Plant in Hendersonville as well as the Eaton Corporation Plant in Fletcher. She was very proud that she had a driver license for 61 years. She enjoyed attending “Music on Main” on Main Street of Hendersonville. She enjoyed traveling, particularly going on cruises.

She is survived by her friend, Don Burnett; one son, Michael J. Maybin, Jr. and his wife Rhonda of Hendersonville; one daughter, Lisa Maybin Hessler and her husband James of Hendersonville; two sisters, Pat Brown and her husband Bob, Wendy Abbott; two grandchildren, Michael J. Maybin, III, Timothy J. Maybin, and his companion Evie Bower; as well as three great grandchildren: Jonathan Maybin, Nathan Maybin, and Brooke Maybin.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, 2019 at Balfour Methodist Church with Pastor J. O’Neil Hayes officiating.

Beverly loved flowers and never felt like she could have too many and will be greatly appreciated at her service.

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.

Read More »

Robert Vance "Bob" Thompson Jr., 81

Robert Vance "Bob" Thompson Jr., 81, of Saluda N.C., passed away on Saturday, March 23, 2019 after an extended illness.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert V. Thompson Sr. and Aleen Thompson, and a sister Margaret Causby.
.
Bob was a member of the Saluda Masonic Lodge where he served two terms as Master. He was an employee of General Electric for 22 years, and a member of West Hendersonville Baptist Church. Bob loved farming, fishing, landscaping, and was an avid card player. He had a great love of all animals.

Bob will be remembered as a wonderful father, grandfather, and friend. His granddaughter was his pride and joy.

Much love and thanks goes to all of the staff at Hendersonville Health and Rehabilitation for the excellent care of my daddy. Each person who interacted with him and spent time with him, made his life better.

A special thank you to Andrea Green for the love , compassion, and kindness in the care she provided. Also, a special thank you to Kande Newman for her love and support.

He is survived by his daughter Diane Moore; a granddaughter Tasha Moore; a brother David Thompson; and sister Helen Thompson; and loving partner Colleen Purvis.

The family plans a private celebration of his life at a later date.

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.

Read More »

Mary I. Yeazell

Mary I. Yeazell, of Hendersonville, passed away on March 6, 2019 following a brief illness.

She was born in Herrin, IL in 1926 and held degrees from Southern Illinois University and the University of Illinois, where in 1966, she received the Doctor of Education. Mary was a “teacher of teachers,” inspiring hope, igniting the imagination, and instilling a love of learning in those around her. She taught at Miami University (Ohio), the University of Rhode Island, and West Virginia University where she received Professor of the Year and retired in 1988 as Professor Emerita.

Mary’s dedication to learning and teaching extended into her spiritual life. She taught workshops on Children’s Spirituality and Faith Development for Dioceses in several states. An active member of St. James Episcopal Church, Hendersonville, she taught classes, wrote prayers for services, and served on a national committee developing a new youth curriculum for the Episcopal Church USA. During her retirement, Mary researched an extensive genealogy project. She was a wonderful cook, traveled widely in Europe and the Americas, and loved watching and feeding the birds.

Mary is survived by her husband of 54 years, Paul Yeazell, and a daughter, Martha Milcarek, both of Hendersonville; a granddaughter, Maggie Milcarek and two great-grandchildren, WI; and a sister, Joann East, IL; four step-daughters, four step-grandchildren, and two step-great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 5, 2019 at St. James Episcopal Church. Burial will follow later in the Memorial Garden.

The family thanks the staffs of Life Care Center and Four Seasons Hospice for their care and support during Mary’s illness. Memorials may be made to Four Seasons Hospice Foundation and Hendersonville Rescue Mission.

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.

Read More »

Mertis Bradley Justice, 92

Mertis Bradley Justice, 92 of Hendersonville, died Thursday, March 28, 2019 at Pardee Hospital.

She was born in Polk County to the late Mattie Bradley and Robert Melton. Mertis is also preceded in death by her husband Calvin Justice; a son, Avery Justice; and a daughter, Carolyn J. Ledbetter.

Having lived most of her life in Henderson County, she was formerly employed with Dana Elementary School working in the cafeteria and Kimberly Clark. She was a member of Victory Baptist Church.

Besides loving the Lord, her family was the main focus of her life. You could always find her in her favorite place which was her flower gardens.

Mertis is survived by a daughter, Frances Baldwin and her husband Paul; a son, Jimmy Justice Sr. and his wife Judy; seven grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Monday, April 1, 2019 at Victory Baptist Church with Rev. Stanley Adcock officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be made in Mertis’s memory to the charity of your choice.

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.

Read More »

Barbara “Jeanne” Smith LeDane, 91

Barbara “Jeanne” Smith LeDane, 91 of Hendersonville, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 20, 2019 at the Elizabeth House. She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Kenneth Lindbergh LeDane to whom she missed dearly.

Jeanne moved to Hendersonville in 1978 from Hialeah, Florida and loved living here in the mountains. She was a proud and loyal member of First Baptist Church of Hendersonville; where she helped with the Children’s Ministry on Sunday mornings. Jeanne was a true believer in her faith.

She is survived by two sons, Michael LeDane and Donald K. LeDane of Hendersonville; a daughter, Cynthia Jeanne West and her husband Steve of Wesley Chapel, FL; two grandsons, Michael K. LeDane and his wife Jennifer of Candler, NC and Thomas G. Ledane and Karissa Martindale of Charlotte, NC; two great-granddaughters, Lillie and Charlotte LeDane; and a close friend Diane Rindone.

A private memorial service was held in memory of Jeanne.

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.

Read More »

Justin Nathaniel Ficker, 35

Justin Nathaniel Ficker, 35, of Hendersonville passed away on Friday, March 29,
2019 at Mission Hospital in Asheville. He was born on September 9, 1983 a
son of Robert Steve and Renee Ruxton Ficker. He was preceded in death by his
maternal and paternal grandparents.

Justin was a 2003 graduate of West Henderson High School. He loved
listening to music, especially "The Backstreet Boys" and "One Direction." He
was a huge sports fan and the University of Asheville's Bulldogs were his
favorite team. Do to the proximity of Asheville, Justin was able to
attend numerous games with his dad. He was a loyal employee for Harris Teeter Grocery
Store for over 14 years where he was the self proclaimed "All Star Bagger."

In addition to his parent's, Justin is survived by one brother, Nicholas
and his wife Crystal, of Black Mountain, as well as one sister, Lauren
Martinez and her husband, John of Frisco, Texas. He was a beloved uncle to his nieces and nephew to which he loved dearly. He is also survived by numerous aunts and uncles.

The memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 2, 2019
at Grace Lutheran Church officiated by Pastor Greg Williams.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests that donations in Justin's memory be
directed to UNC Asheville Foundation, attn: Betsy Blose, CPO 2600, One
University Heights, Asheville, NC, 28804. These funds will be allocated and awarded to a UNC Asheville student who loves the Bulldogs as much as Justin did.

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

Read More »

Joyce Juanita Pace Justice, 84

Joyce Juanita Pace Justice, 84 of Hendersonville died Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at Mission Hospital.

She is preceded in death by her husband, James T. Justice who died in 1988 and as well as twelve siblings.

Juanita was a lifelong resident of Henderson County. She was a homemaker and was of the Baptist Faith. She served as secretary for the Henderson County Community Development in the late 1980’s- mid1990’s. She proudly served on the committee for the Child Identification Project that worked alongside the Henderson County Sheriffs Department in the 1980’s. Juanita enjoyed volunteering her time to the 4-H Club of Henderson County and served as chairperson for the Barker Heights Community Club in the 1980’s and 1990’s.

She is survived by a son, David Auther Justice and wife Christine; a daughter, Joyce Baines; five grandchildren, Kimberly Marchisin and her husband Michael, Joshua Justice and his wife Tangela, Brian Michael Baines and his wife Gail, Jeremy Justice, Kayla Justice; ten great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, April 3, 2019 at Forest Lawn Memorial Park with Rev. Justin English officiating.

Memorial contributions may be sent in Joyce’s memory to: Salvation Army, 239 3rd Avenue East, Hendersonville, NC 28792.

There’s nothing quite as wonderful as loving one another. In fact, the Lord has clearly said that we should love our brother. To share our love with someone else brings such peace within. And if we do, we’ll always find we’re loved right back again. I will meet you all in the garden.

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

Read More »

Shirley Ann Henderson Willis, 83

Shirley Ann Henderson Willis, 83 of Fletcher, died Monday, March 25, 2019 at Universal Healthcare.

Having lived most of her life in Henderson County she was the daughter of the late Robert and Viola Henderson. She is also preceded in death by her husband, Milton Willis.

Shirley retired in 1981 from Eaton; before graduating in 1981 from Blue Ridge Community College nursing program. She was a dedicated LPN, having a 45 years career in nursing. Shirley retired from Universal Healthcare. She was awarded the Person of the Week with John Lee on WLOS in June of 2017. Shirley was an amazing mother and touched many lives; and was a proud sponsor of St. Judes always caring for other that needed help.

She is survived by a daughter, Angie Willis of Fletcher; a son, Mitchell Willis of Fletcher; three brothers, Doug Henderson of SC, Dean Henderson of Fairview, and Cecil Henderson of MS; two sisters, Vivian Henderson of Hendersonville and Sharon Henderson of CO; five grandchildren, Christopher Rumbough, Mitchell Willis, Jr., Ayden Willis , Channing Willis, and Nevaeh Willis all of Fletcher.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 P.M. of Friday, March 29, 2019 at Shepherd Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel with Rev. Josh Bass and Doug Jones officiating. Burial will follow in Shepherd Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Shepherd Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel.

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

Read More »

William Henry Hudson III, 71

William Henry Hudson III, 71, beloved husband, father, and brother, passed on Sunday, March 17, 2019.

Bill loved his family, his friends, fishing, teaching, and barbecue. As a teacher of English and Drama at T.C. Roberson High School for 32 years, Bill loved his students and treasured teaching. He was also well known for his excellence at telling a great story.

He is survived by his wife Vicki; his son Jim and his wife Carrie; his granddaughter, Madison; his three sisters, Kathy, Pat, and Diane; his brother Mike; and many cousins.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. on Saturday, March 23, 2019 at Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors.

Memorials may be made in Bill’s memory to: Four Seasons Compassion-for-Life, 581 S. 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.

Read More »

Dr. William David Killian, 96

Dr. William David Killian, 96, died March 17, 2019 in the Medical Center at Carolina Village after a period of declining health. A native of Lincoln County, born on May 22, 1922, he was a son of the late David Coon and Bessie Era Lantz Killian. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Shufford Killian of over 63 years in 2016. He was also preceded death by his three siblings: Frank Killian, Robert Killian and Elizabeth Killian Mosteller.

He was a graduate of Appalachian State Teacher’s College with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Mathematics and Science Education respectively. Like many young men, he was called on to serve his country during World War II enlisting in the United States Navy. After his separation from duty he enrolled at NC State University and obtained another Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Education. His passion for education was not simply his understanding that knowledge was not only powerful, but the sharing of knowledge to eager students was extremely rewarding to him as well. As a Vocational Agriculture Education instructor, Professor Killian’s positions allowed him and his family to reside in several cities in NC including: Lincolnton, Stony Point and Cleveland. In 1962 after accepting a teaching position at Catawba County Technical Institute (CUTI), he shifted to Administration with the acceptance of the Agricultural Technical Coordinator and then as the Director of Evening Programs of CUTI. He left CUTI long enough to complete his Doctorate studies at NC State prior to resuming his administrative duties at CUTI.

In 1969, Dr. Killian had been made aware of the plans for a community institute to be created in the Hendersonville area to provide secondary education as well as industrial training for local students and applied for the position with the current Board of the Henderson County Commissioners. He eagerly accepted the position of the first President of the Henderson County Technical Institute a public two year institution which was granted its charter with the NC State Board of Education on July 21, 1969. He successfully nurtured the institute which later became a two year college until his retirement in 1987. He was not only recognized as the President Emeritus of the College by the Trustees after his retirement, the student center which is the pulse of the campus was re-named in his honor in 1989. He was also inducted in the Henderson County Education Hall of Fame in 2002, and was a proud recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. He was an active member of the Rotary Club of Hendersonville as well as a Paul Harris Fellow Rotarian.

He is survived by his four children: William Jeffrey Killian of Alton, VA., Michael David Killian and his wife, Joella of Spotsylvania, VA., Stephen Charles Killian and his wife, Ann of Lincolnton, NC., and Susan Killian Sutton and her husband, John of Republic, MO. He is also survived by three grandchildren: Kathryn Elizabeth Sutton of Des Moines, IA., Amy Lynn Sutton of Republic, MO., and Matt Bowman Killian of Raleigh, NC., as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

The memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 22, 2019 at the Grace Lutheran Church with Pastor Greg Williams officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. The interment at Shepherd Memorial Park will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in William’s memory be directed to the Blue Ridge Educational Foundation, 180 West Campus Drive, Flat Rock, NC., 28731.

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

Read More »

Joseph John Schwartz, 90

Joseph John Schwartz, age 90, of Flat Rock died Monday, February 25, 2019 at The Elizabeth House.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center will announce Arrangements.

Read More »

Melinda Gail Leatherwood, 61

Melinda Gail Leatherwood, 61, of Hendersonville died on Saturday, February 23, 2019 at Pardee Hospital after a period of declining health. A Henderson County native, she was born March 25. Gail was a daughter of John Herman Jr., and Mary Ann “Bunny” Burton Leatherwood. She was preceded in death by her brother, Garry Leatherwood.

Gail was a loyal “Bearcat” graduating from Hendersonville High School with the class of 1975. She then continued her education at Wingate University. She enjoyed the hospitality industry and was employed as a Food and Beverage Manager at Fatz Café in Hendersonville prior to her illness. She was an active member of First Baptist Church of Hendersonville and enjoyed performing with Sound of Singing Youth Group, and was a member of the B.P.O.E. #1616 Elks Lodge of Hendersonville. She enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family and friends.

 In addition to her parents, she is also survived by a brother John Herman Leatherwood III; and a sister Carrie Lynn Leatherwood Cox and her husband, Kip all of Hendersonville.

 A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 7, 2019 at Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel officiated by the Reverend James Walker. Burial will follow at Oakdale Cemetery.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials in Gail’s memory be made to Pardee Oncology Department, 805 Sixth Ave. W., Suite 100, 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 arrangements.

Read More »

James Alan Rieger, 70

James Alan Rieger, 70, of Hendersonville passed peacefully into eternal life on Monday, February 25, 2019 surrounded by family and friends. He was a son of the late Milton Jason and Blanch Evelyn Nick Rieger. In addition to his parents, Alan was also preceded in death by one son, Stephen, one granddaughter, Candice as well as his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Alan was a long time resident and community leader of Hendersonville. He was very well respected as a land developer with uncanny vision. He continued to be active in local real estate until his death.

He is survived by his wife, Noel, as well as three sons: Ken (Krisi), Matt (Audrey), Ben (Ashley), two step daughters: Heather Bauer and Alyssa Salas; six grandchildren: David, Stephanie, James, Jonathon, Wendell and Pierson. He is also survived by seven step-grandchildren: Alani, Noeime, Irineo, Leo, Lazaro, Skylar and Caleb; three great-grandchildren: Kearsey, Isabelle and Silas as well as one daughter-in-law, Linda.

A memorial service in remembrance of Alan will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at the Hendersonville First Presbyterian Church with Pastor William Campbell officiating. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations in Alan’s memory be directed to Four Season’s Hospice, 571 S. 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 are in charge of arrangements.

Read More »

William Eugene “Gene” Orren, 72

William Eugene “Gene” Orren, 72, of Mills River, died on Saturday, February 23, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Campus in Asheville. He was born July 25, 1946 in Statesville; a son of the late Mason Eugene and Katherine Sharpe Melton Orren.

He lived most of his life in Henderson County and was a 1966 graduate of West Henderson High School. He was a self-employed grading contractor. He enjoyed wildlife preservation, hunting, fishing, and Nascar.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Mahala Shipman Orren; a daughter, Bridgett Orren Brudever and her husband Robert of Canton, GA; a sister, Judy Souther and her husband Gary of Fletcher; a granddaughter, Macie Elizabeth Brudever; a niece, Mary Souther Cruse of Fletcher; as well as numerous great nephews and nieces.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 pm on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel with Reverend Richard Merck officiating. The family will receive friends 11:00 – 11:45 am prior to the service at Thos. Shepherd and Son Funeral Directors.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude - http://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=5632597&fr_id=39300&pg=personal.

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.

Read More »

Steven Carl Ward, 64

Steven Carl Ward, 64, of Hendersonville passed away suddenly and went home to be with the Lord on February 11, 2019. Born in Presque Isle, Maine to a military family in 1954, and after a time in Louisiana & Mississippi, his family came to Henderson County in 1965. He was the son of Thelma Ward and the late Bill Ward. Steve was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing, hunting and adventures with his close circle of hunting and fishing buddies. Above all things, Steve loved family. Steve was a loving son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle “unc” and friend who will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered. He was an exceptional man of exceptional intelligence who was a jack of all trades. He never found anything broken that he couldn’t repair or repurpose. He was good, honest and fair, and selfless in his consideration of others. He was quiet when there was nothing to say, and full of words and wisdom when he had something meaningful to say, or when he wanted to bring laughter and joy into the lives of those around him. Steve retired after 40 years of service with General Electric at the end of 2015. From that time forward he devoted his time to his family and friends, spending time out in nature and just spending time doing the things that he loved. In the Summer of 2018 Steve set out on a final adventure of a lifetime with the love of his life, his wife Cindy. They travelled across the country taking in the beauty of the countryside, enjoying each other’s company, and visiting landmarks and friends and family all along the way. They were so blessed to have this final adventure together before his untimely passing.
Steve is survived by his wife of 30 years, Cindy McCullough Ward, their son, Ryan (wife, Amanda), a granddaughter, EmmaLee, Steve’s mother, Thelma Ward, a brother, Lee (wife, Beverly), a mother-in-law, Nona Sue McCullough, 2 nieces, Courtney Stepp Lowery (husband, Sean), Lana Ward Bagwell (husband, Eric), a nephew, Brett Ward, and a great nephew, Tyler Stepp Lowery. Steve was preceded in death by his father, Bill Ward, his father-in-law, James “Buddy” McCullough, and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Norman and Suprina Stepp.
Steve leaves a void that can never be filled, but the legacy of his loving kindness will live on through the generations that he touched. He will be dearly missed here on Earth, but we all rejoice at our reunion in the eternal life to come.
A visitation will be held at 1 PM on Saturday, February 16, 2019 at Shaws Creek Baptist Church with service to follow at 2 PM. The Reverends Danny Pridmore and Jerry Mullinax will officiate.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

Read More »

Peter E. Bedoian, 86

Peter E. Bedoian, 86 of Hendersonville, NC, died Sunday, February 3, 2019, at Carolina Village.
A native of Chicago, IL, he was the son of the late Israel & Anna Bedoian. He is also preceded in death by his loving wife of 54 years, Diane C. Bedoian, who died in 2012; and one sister, Mary Wodziak.
Pete lived in Lowell, IN, Calumet Park, IL, Blue Island, IL, before moving to Saluda, NC, 23 years ago. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954 during the Korean War and was stationed in Iceland. Pete retired from Linde Air Products in East Chicago, IN. In retirement, he worked at Langen Realty in Lowell, IN; Carquest in Hendersonville, NC; Camp Green Cove and Camp Mondamin in Zirconia, NC.
He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, where he volunteered as a Eucharistic Minister. Pete was a member of Knights of Columbus and Youche Country Club. He was elected Township Trustee in IN and in IL. Pete enjoyed playing golf, playing the accordion, and, most of all, enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
He is survived by a son, Michael Bedoian and his wife Shanda of Saluda, NC; three daughters, Susan Gavin and her husband Bill of Goodyear, AZ, Sharon Wagner and her husband Jeff of Winamac, IN, and Laura Langen and her husband Doug of Zionsville, IN; his loving companion, Joan Wright of Hendersonville, NC; three brothers, John Bedoian and his wife Judy, Charlie Bedoian, and Bob Bedoian and his wife Pat; one sister, Margaret Novak; seven grandchildren, Jacquelyn Jeanes and her husband Zach, Nicholas Williams and his wife Caroline, Steven Wagner, Micayla Bedoian, Jenna Langen, Alyssa Wagner, Cyrena Bedoian; two great-grandchildren, Ella June Jeanes and Cameron Kai Williams; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial mass will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, February 22, 2019, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with Rev. Praveen Turaka officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church. Burial will take place at St. Peter Cemetery in Winamac, IN.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity in his honor.
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

Read More »

James Ervin Crouse, 84

James Ervin Crouse, 84 of Hendersonville, died Tuesday, January 22, 2019.

A native of Boone, Iowa, he was the son of the late Ervin Crouse and Katherine Varak Crouse. He is also preceded in death by a wife, Mary Ellen Tucker Crouse who died in 2000; a daughter, Linda Crouse; and a sister, Judy Buche.

James was a graduate of Iowa State University. He had prior residences in Boone, Iowa, Fairview Park, Ohio, and Allegany, New York before moving to Henderson County 19 years ago. James was employed for NASA and Dresser Rand Industries as an engineer. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Hendersonville. James was involved with the N.C. Trail Volunteers, and avid bridge player, and a Bridge Life Master.

He is survived by a son, Don Crouse and his wife Amy of Cincinnati, Ohio; a brother-in-law, John Buche of Boone, Iowa; three grandchildren, Katherine Crouse, Timothy Crouse, and Elizabeth Crouse; two nephews, Bob Buche and David Buche; and his ex-wife, Sylvia Crouse.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, February 10, 2019 at First United Methodist Church of Hendersonville with Rev. Mark Ralls officiating.

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.

Read More »

Norbert Sternad, 85

Norbert Sternad, 85 of Hendersonville, died Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at Life Care Center of Hendersonville.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 great years, Anne Sternad; two step-sons, Scott Sheff and William Sheff.

A private service will be held at a later date.

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.

Read More »

Steve Mihocka, 89

Steve Mihocka, 89 of Hendersonville, passed away January 21, 2019 at Pardee Hospital of cardiac arrest.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, J. Christine Mihocka and his son, Stephen Edward Mihocka. He attended Barberton High School, received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Akron and his Master’s degree in Education Administration from the University of Wisconsin.

Steve’s entire professional career was with the YMCA. In retirement, he was a consultant in risk management for the National YMCA Board. He was the Director of Annual Support Campaigns for the YMCA of Greater New York. He was the Executive Director for the following: Staten Island YMCA of Greater New York, Central Branch YMCA of Greater Kansas City, Missouri, YMCA of Siouxland, Sioux City, Iowa, South Shore Branch, YMCA of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Adult Education Director of Akron Central Branch, Akron Ohio.

Steve was a Captain in the U.S. Army and a Commander in the Ohio National Guard. His community activities included: Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, Jaycee “Outstanding Man of the Year”, Meals on Wheels, 32nd Degree Mason, Shrine Foot Patrol Unit in Sioux City, Iowa and Kansas City, Missouri, Warren Wilson Presbyterian Church and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Service to others was the cornerstone of Steve’s life. His relationships with family and friends, in the U.S. and abroad were very important to him. He will be missed.

He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth Christine Mihocka; three nephews, John Mihocka, James Mihocka and David Mihocka along with their mother Christine Seely Mihocka; and several cousins in Slovakia.

The Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, February 8, 2019 in the theatre at Lake Pointe Landing, Hendersonville, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions be made to Disabled American Veterans, www.dav.org or Shriners Hospitals for Children, www.shrinershospitalforchildren.org.

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.

Read More »