Marie Ellen Schroer, 86

Marie Ellen Schroer, 86, passed away peacefully at Sunnybrook Assisted Living on Sunday, May 5, 2019 after an extended illness. She was born on February 13, 1933, a native of Brooklyn, New York, the daughter of the late Otto and Mary Amsen Hoegger of New York. Along with her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Paul Phillip Schroer, who died on June 13, 2006; as well as a sister, Gloria Jean Hoegger.

She graduated from Charlotte Valley High School in Davenport, NY in 1950. She worked for many years as a librarian in General Electric facilities as her husband, an accountant for that firm, traveled around the country. She was affiliated with the Grace Lutheran Church in Hendersonville. She loved flowers and gardening and was an expert seamstress who made her own as well as her family’s clothing. In later years, she loved to play Mah Jongg.

She is survived by two daughters: Cathy Bauer and her husband Ray of Woodbine, KY and Jeanne Smalley and her husband Don of Shelton, CT; seven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; one brother, Otto “Buzzy” Hoegger of Hendersonville; one sister, Judy Van Buren of Rapid City, SD; nieces, nephews and other relatives. She cherished numerous friends: Kathy Ziobrowski of Averill Park, NY, Ann Fritsch of Milford, OH, Helen Kelly of Advance, NC, Dorothy Schneider of Hendersonville, Vivian Bolanos and daughters, Camila and Isabella of Hendersonville as well as many others.

The gentle care and concern for Marie during her stay Sunnybrook Assisted Living as well as the care from Four Season’s Hospice was greatly appreciated. The friendship, love and care giving that Diana Bagwell and her husband Morris gave to Maria contributed greatly to her quality of life.

The memorial service was private.

Memorials may be made to Four Season’s Hospice, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC, 28731 or The Muscular Dystrophy Association, or a charity of your choice.

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

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John Dennis Mellott, 80

After a six-month battle with pancreatic cancer, John Dennis Mellott, 80, died Friday, May 10, 2019, at the Lodge at Mills River surrounded by his loving family. John was born on September 3, 1938, the youngest child of the late John and Ina Squires Mellot in Tiffin, Ohio. He was also preceded in death by three older siblings.

John graduated from Columbia High School in Tiffin Ohio in 1956; and then furthered his education at Purdue University with a Mechanical Engineering degree in 1960. John married Margaret Ann West on June 3, 1960, a few days after she graduated from High School. After a number of engineering and managerial positions around the Eastern Coast in 1978, with his wife, Margaret by his side, and on a card table in their bedroom he literally created what would be known today as Storopack a major supplier of packaging materials that is not only used with confidence in the United States but with international customers as well. As the President of Storopack, USA, John’s uncanny ability and vision to assess the growing need of getting products to the consumer quickly and safely allowed him to enjoy tremendous growth and global saturation of the market. As the company grew, John had to travel a lot for business, but he always was open for a new adventure with Margaret on any mode of transportation they could find in order to explore the world.

John was a firm believer that from those to whom much has been given much is expected. After John and Margaret relocated to Hendersonville, he had much more time to immerse himself in the community. He was an eager volunteer at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club in Hendersonville not only tutoring and mentoring their youth but serving on their board as well.

John is survived by his wife and partner of over 58 years, Margaret, with whom he had unconditional devotion and love for. He is also survived by five children: J. Denise Francis and her husband, Mark; J. Thomas Mellott and his wife, Lisa; Kari R. Mellott and her spouse Diego Jordan, Dirk E. Mellott and his wife Jeni; and Mike Mellott. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Megan Andersen, Chelsey Heil, Andrew Francis, Claire Mellott, Grant Mellott, Della Mellott, Karen Mellott and Michael Mellott; as well as three great-grandchildren: Piper Andersen, Zoey Andersen and Gavin Heil. He will be deeply missed but his legacy will not only live on through his family and friends but through the business that he and Margaret started together.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at St. John-in-the-Wilderness in Flat Rock with the Revered William McCleery officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the Parish Hall. A memorial service will also be held at the end of the month at Christ Episcopal Church in Glendale, OH, with a reception to follow as well.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests that donations in John’s memory be directed to The Boy’s and Girl’s Club of Henderson County, 1304 Ashe Street, Hendersonville, NC, 28792.

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

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Florence Pat Garrett, 85

Florence Pat Garrett, 85 of Hendersonville slipped peacefully away in her sleep Thursday May 09, 2019 at the Elizabeth House.
She was the daughter of the late Harry Marshall and Corine Dunn Marshall. She was the wife of the late Maurice E. “Red” Garrett who died in 2015.
She was preceded in death by one son, John.
Florence had lived in CA where she owned and operated a successful business before moving to NC. She was a very strong person and loved the Silver Sneakers Program. She was a member of Mud Creek Baptist Church, she loved and appericated the kindness of her church family. She loved to garden and had a great passion for cooking, she would feed anyone and everyone. She was very proud to be a part of her five generation family. Her greatest joy was her children and grandchildren.
Survivors include one son, Steven Garrett and his wife Rina of FL, two daughters, Melanie MacPherson and her husband Graham of Hendersonville, Sandy Holder and her husband David of Flat Rock, one sister Judy Dorr of Richardson, TX, six grandchildren, Shannon, Holly, Timothy, Meredith, Ryan and Anir, nine great grandchildren, Mark, James, Melissa, Zachary, Isabella, Aarion, Mackenzie, Logan and Sara, four great great grandchildren, William, Easton, Violet and Ivory and her precious poodle Polly. She will be greatly missed.
At her request no service will be held.
Memorials may be made to: Four Seasons Compassion for Life (Elizabeth House) 571 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or PO Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793 .

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Dennis Tyrrell “Terry” Blythe, 64

Dennis Tyrrell “Terry” Blythe, age 64, of Hendersonville passed away at Pardee Hospital on Thursday, May 2, 2019. He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence M. Blythe, who died in 2018.

Terry was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, and brother. A lifelong resident of Henderson County, he attended Balfour Elementary School before graduating from West Henderson High School in the class of 1973. During high school, Terry was a talented musician who played the drums, guitar, and was a member of the first marching band at West Henderson High School. Upon graduating from WHHS, Terry attended Blue Ridge Community College where he was a graduate of the machining program.

Terry is survived by his mother, Peggy Loftis Blythe of Hendersonville as well as his wife of forty-one wonderful years, Rita Merrell Blythe. His three children: Jeffrey Blythe and his wife, Fay of Statesboro, GA; Ashley McCall and her husband, Mike of Lexington, SC; Kimberly Honeycutt and her husband, Tyler of Hendersonville. Five grandchildren: Tyler and Brady Blythe, Ella McCall and Katie and Maddie Honeycutt; one brother: Philip Blythe and his wife, Sharon of Arden; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Terry served as the Problem Resolution Engineer of North America for BorgWarner. He enjoyed vacationing with his family at Dollywood and Myrtle Beach, SC. He loved being “Grandpa” and spending time with his children and grandchildren. In addition, he was an avid Tar Heel fan who lived and breathed Carolina basketball. Terry never met a stranger and will be greatly missed by all who knew him and loved him.

The memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel, 125 South Church Street, Hendersonville. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Terry, can be made to Vocational Solutions of Henderson County 2110 Spartanburg Hwy., East Flat Rock, NC, 28726.

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

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Viola Jane Cairnes Allison, 93

Viola Jane Cairnes Allison, 93, of Mills River died Saturday, May 4, 2019 at Tore’s Home in East Flat Rock. She was preceded in death by her husband of fifty-nine years, James Edward Allison, who died in 2006.

She was born May 28, 1925, in Mills River, NC, the fourth of six children of Walter Partee Cairnes and Mary Eugenia Banning Cairnes. She was also preceded in death by all of her siblings, Edna Mae Gevedon, Hubert Cairnes, Olen Cairnes, Walter Lee Cairnes,, and Mary Jean Cairnes, and by her son-in-law of fifty years, Norman Gordon, who died in 2017.

After she graduated from Mills River High School in 1942, she lived in Los Angeles for a time with her sister Edna and her family before returning to Mills River. She worked at Parkland Chevrolet in Asheville before marrying James Allison in November 1946. Around 1950, she and her husband built a home in Mills River; about ten years later, they built another home on what she called “the old place,” on the same spot where she was born. She was a master maker of homemade jellies, using June apples from the trees beside their garden, grapes from the vines at the edge of the front yard, and blackberries from the wild vines on their farm. She loved feeding the birds, especially the cardinals, yellow finches, and hummingbirds, and watching the seasons change on Forge Mountain. She loved flowers: daffodils, tulips, lilies, lady slippers, and almost anything that bloomed. She loved dogs, with many beloved pets through the years, including Blackie, Chain Saw, and Ginger; when her pets were gone, she loved visits from the granddogs. She also loved reading, especially biographies, and enjoyed taking her children to the bookmobile at the old Longview Shell. Her greatest joy came from “taking care of the babies.” Even in her last days, she encouraged her children to take care of the babies.

She is survived by three children, Marilyn Gordon of Hendersonville, Martha Shoemaker and her husband, Don, of Hendersonville, and Mark Allison and his wife, Donna, of Mills River; seven grandchildren, Michael Gordon and Kenneth Gordon and his wife Stephanie of Hendersonville, Brad Shoemaker of San Francisco, CA, Stephanie Shoemaker and her husband Ben Williams of Washington, DC, Joshua Allison of Hendersonville, Jessica Allison of Granite Falls, NC, and Austin Allison of Mills River; and two great-grandchildren, Leah Gordon of Hendersonville and Oscar Williams of Washington, DC. Her third great-grandchild is due to arrive this month.

The family acknowledges with special thanks the staff at Tore’s Home for the kind, loving care they provided during her stay in her last months, and also the staff at The Bridge at Lake Pointe Landing.

A graveside service will be held 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at Shepherd Memorial Park. Reverend Paige Ann Miller will officiate.

Memorials may be made to the cemetery fund at Boylston Baptist Church, 10642 Boylston Highway, Mills River, NC 28759.

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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Dr. Paul Vanek, 82

Dr. Paul Vanek, 82 of Hendersonville, died Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at Pardee Hospital.

A native of Toronto, Canada, he was the son of the late Thomas Vanek and Anna Wolgeruch Vanek. He was also preceded in death by two brothers: Sheldon and Roy Vanek.

He was a graduate of the University of Toronto with a Bachelor’s and Doctorate Degrees in Dentistry. He continued his education at the University of Michigan with a concentration in Endodontic Dentistry. He not only practiced but also taught dentistry in Ann Arbor, Michigan as well as in Toronto, Canada. He was a past president of the Canadian Endodontic Association. He was also a very active member of every temple he worshipped at. In Ann Arbor, he served as President of Temple Beth Emeth, as well as the Vice Chairman of the Union of Reform Judaism. After he relocated to Hendersonville over 20 years ago he became an active member of the Agudas Israel Congregation and served two terms as their President.

He is survived by his wife of over 30 years, Iris Vanek. He is also survived by two daughters: Julie Vanek of Newton, MA, and Jodi Vanek Wallo and her husband, Bill of Ann Arbor, MI. He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Ellen Vanek and Rhonda Vanek and brother-in-law Jay Thorpe and his wife, Roberta. He is also survived by step children: Karen Franco and David Davis, Janet and Larry Gordon, Susie Franco and Steve Krakow all of Miami, FL, and Steve and Kelly Franco of Austin, TX. Twelve grandchildren: Jake Pasternack and his wife, Emma, Alex Pasternack, Josh Gordon, and his wife, Yocheved, Zack Gordon, Eli Gordon, Bari Gordon, Sophie Gordon, Gaby Martinez, Julia Franco, Isabelle Franco, Zelda Franco, and Nick Franco. He is also survived by six great grandchildren: Mia Paternack, Ava Pasternack, Aaron Gordon, Ilan Gordon, Nili Gordon and Judah Gordon.

The funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m., today, Friday May 3, 2019 at Agudus Israel Congregation in Hendersonville with the Rabbi Rachael Jackson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Paul’s memory be directed to Agudas Israel Congregation, 505 Glasgow Lane, Hendersonville, N.C., 28739 or Pardee Hospital Foundation, 561 Fleming Street, Hendersonville, NC. 28739.

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

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Ronald Charles “Ron Jovi” DiPietro, 53

Ronald Charles “Ron Jovi” DiPietro, 53, of Hendersonville went home to his heavenly father on Monday, April 8, 2019 at Pardee Hospital. He was born in California on February 18, 1966.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Marjorie “Peggy” DiPietro. Survivors include his son, Chaz Hughes; second parents adopted by Ron, Gary and Sharon Moore; brothers: Sam Kane and his wife Dorothy, Danny Kane and his wife Doreen; sisters: Laurie Kane and her husband Steve Ayling, Teresa Moore; along with several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his girlfriend, Sabrina Cagle.

He was originally from Long Island, New York before moving to North Carolina in the eighties. He was one of a kind and full of life. He played hockey in New York. Once moving to North Carolina, he quickly became known as the best graphics designer around, especially for race cars. No one’s graphics even compared to his and he has been the go to guy for race car drivers throughout the South East for the past thirty years. Even after becoming a quadriplegic, he was still able to design graphics better than anyone. He became an inspiration to many with his continued love for life and positivity. He aspired to give as many people hope as he could, and he was very successful with that goal. He lived life to the fullest and made an impact on everyone who crossed his path.

He was a joy to be around and full of love and laughter. He will be greatly missed by many but we are happy that he is now walking again in heaven and able to draw amazing designs again with his working hands.

We would like to thank the staff at Pardee Hospital and Four Seasons Palliative Care for the great care and compassion you provided to Ron and our family.

His funeral service will be held on Friday, April 19, 2019 at 11:00 am at Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel with Pastor Thomas Glenn officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 18, 2019 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Thos. Shepherd and Son.

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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Betty Frances Corn Case, 85

Betty Frances Corn Case, 85, of Hendersonville, passed away peacefully in her home on April 12, 2019 due to complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. She was the daughter of the late Grover Cleveland and Faydean Newman Corn, and the beloved wife of the late Carroll Edgerton “Doc” Case for 61 years. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Harry Corn, Sr., and Leo Corn, as well as her sisters: Mary Ruth Davis, Evelyn Bessellieu, Willie Kate Buchanan, and Reba Corn.
Survivors include her daughter Barbara Case Blaine(Paul), her son, Morris Case; grandchildren, Alison Blaine ( Zoe) of Durham and Spencer Case of Salem, MA., great grandchildren: Rosemary, Hazel Claire, Genevieve, and Juliana; as well as several nieces and nephews.
She often shared with family and friends that her career was raising her children. With a lifelong passion to enhance the lives of young people, she made each child feel special.
Her funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel with the Pastors Richard Merck and Robert Garren officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral and at other times at the residence.
The family extends special thanks to Dr. David Slawek, the staff of Pardee Memorial Hospital, and Four Seasons Compassion for Life Hospice.
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.

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Dorothy English, 94

Dorothy English, 94, of Hendersonville died on Tuesday, April 2, 2019 at Carillon Assisted Living. She was born October 9, 1924 in Wilmington; a daughter of the late Luther and Laura Cooper Foy.

She is survived by a daughter, Pam English of Hendersonville; and a nephew, Robert Scurry of New Bern.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm today, Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at Shepherd Memorial Park with James McHarg officiating.

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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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.

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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.

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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.
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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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