Obituaries
Andrew Charles Hollifield
Jan 21, 2026
Andrew Charles Hollifield, age 64, of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital. He was born on November 29, 1961, in Spruce Pine, where he remained a lifelong resident.
Andrew was a 1980 graduate of Mitchell High School, where he proudly played basketball. Known for his strong work ethic, he spent his...
Beth Marie Metzker
Dec 30, 2025
Beth Metzker, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother, passed away on December 30th, 2025.
Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Beth spent much of her life in Indian Trail, North Carolina, where she resided with her husband, Willard “Bill” Metzker. Together they shared nearly 42 years of marriage, they created a life centered on family. Beth was a proud and devoted mother to...
Larry Wade Boyd
Dec 29, 2025
Larry Wade Boyd, born on February 13, 1965, passed away on December 29, 2025. A devoted father and loving son, Larry left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know him.
As a heavy equipment operator in the construction business, Larry found joy and purpose in his work. His expertise with big rigs and heavy machinery was matched...
Allen Lee Lunsford
Dec 20, 2025
Allen Lee Lunsford, 65, passed away on December 20, 2025, in Flat Rock, North Carolina. Born on May 5, 1960, in Asheville, North Carolina, Allen lived a life full of energy, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
A devoted father and cherished friend, Allen was known for his towering presence—both in stature and spirit. His infectious smile and unmistakable laugh left a lasting...
Charles Arthur Gates
Dec 15, 2025
Charles Arthur Gates, born on January 16, 1961, in Long Beach, California, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, at Elizabeth House in Flat Rock, North Carolina. He lived a life marked by service, laughter, and unwavering love for his family.
Charles served in the United States Marine Corps from 1979 to 1981. His bravery and commitment during this time earned...
Peter M. Hess
Dec 13, 2025
In Loving Memory of Peter M. Hess,
Peter M. Hess, 79, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Asheville, NC, on Saturday, December 13th, 2025.
Peter was born on September 24th, 1946, to Marie Marie (née Mann) Jefferies & Harold Hess. After graduating from Whitefish Bay High School in 1964, he served in the United States Air Force where...
Robert Rodriguez
Nov 27, 2025
Robert Rodriguez, 59, born in Dallas, Texas, and a resident of Bakersville, North Carolina, passed away early Thanksgiving morning. His passing leaves a deep and heartfelt loss for his family, friends, and all who knew him.
Robert lived a blessed and full life. His journey took him all over the United States, and his travels around the world shaped him into...
Robert A. McCarty
Nov 23, 2025
Robert A. McCarty, a beloved husband, brother, and son, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, at CarePartners Solace Center in Asheville, North Carolina, with his devoted husband, Barry McDade, and his dog, Charlie, by his side. Born in September, 1958, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Rob lived a life filled with love, creativity, and a passion for technology and the arts.
A...
Laura Lee Schock
Nov 16, 2025
Laura Lee Schock, 57 of Candler, NC passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC.
Laura was born on May 6th, 1968, to Linda “Lyn” (Schock) Soper and Joseph Schock, Sr. She grew up in Beverly, Massachusetts until she reached the age of 16, when she moved to Ohio to live with her father.
Laura was...
Jack Milton Whiteted
Oct 24, 2025
Jack Milton Whiteted departed this earth peacefully on October 24th 2025 at his daughter's home in NC.
Born in Garrard Co. KY, September 30 1937 to James Tramuel (d.) and Zella Mae (d.) Jack was the youngest of 5 children. He was preceded in death by all of his siblings; Iona Jean, James Jr., Doris (Pietrzak) and Curt.
He is also preceded...
Jane C. Young
Oct 21, 2025
Jane Churchill Young, of Mills River NC, departed this earth on October 21, 2025 at her home, surrounded by loved ones. She was 94.
Jane was born on October 14, 1931 in New York City to her parents Francis Rufus Bellamy, author and editor, and Viriginia Woods Bellamy, author and poet. They lived in Cold Spring Harbor on Long Island from...
Gary Dean Robinson
Oct 20, 2025
Gary Robinson, age 70, of Candler, North Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born on October 3, 1955, Gary was a proud graduate of Easley High School and Clemson University, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering.
Gary’s lifelong passion for communication and technology led him to a remarkable 45-year career in radio broadcasting. He began working at...
Jonathan "John" Phillip Messer
Oct 18, 2025
Jonathan “John” Phillip Messer, 53, of Candler, North Carolina, passed away on October 18, 2025 of a heart attack. John was born on December 30th, 1971 in Petosky, Michigan, but grew up in Waynesville, North Carolina.
He was preceded in death by his father Jonathan Phillip Messer and his mother Caroline Beardsly Messer. He is survived by his wife Shaleena Messer,...
Ronald "Ron" Wayne Pepin
Oct 12, 2025
Ronald “Ron” Wayne Pepin, 87 of Black Mountain, North Carolina passed into the arms of his loving Savior on October 12, 2025. He was born on February 19, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois to the late William J. Pepin and Agnes J. (Kaeding) Pepin.
Ron was preceded in death by sister Emily Pepin, his parents, grandson Griffin Nickerson and his loving wife...
Joann Lowe Jones
Oct 10, 2025
Mary Joann Lowe Jones, 88, of Asheville NC, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, October 10, 2025.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Kim Jones Fisher. Those left to cherish her memory are her son Greg Jones(Sandy). Her sister, Linda Lowe Cole and the loves of her life, her 4 grandchildren, Chris Fisher, Brandi...
Joanne Ruth Stovall
Sep 30, 2025
The world lost one of its most colorful souls when Joanne Ruth Stovall slipped peacefully into rest on September 30, 2025, in Asheville, North Carolina. She leaves behind her beloved daughter, Britni Anna McCollum (formerly Holtsinger), her son-in-law Bryan McCollum, her brother Larry Lasater and his wife Olga Lasater, as well as cherished nieces and nephews.
Born in Gainesville, Florida, on...
Neil Carter
Sep 24, 2025
Robert “Neil” Carter, affectionately known to most as “Ding Ding,” 76, of Seneca, South Carolina, passed away on September 24, 2025. He was born September 10, 1949, in Western North Carolina, to the late Robert Wayne Carter and Annie Louise (Buckner) Carter.
Neil was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved sister Sonya Bentley, and brothers-in-law Bob Bentley and Terry...
James "Roderick" Roderick Dickson
Sep 23, 2025
James "Roderick" Dickson, a resident of Asheville, NC, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025 in Asheville. Born on December 4, 1970 in Asheville, NC, he was the son of Ambler James Dickson and Patricia (Geter) Dickson. James "Roderick" Dickson was a graduate of AC Reynolds High School in 1988 .
Outside of work, he enjoyed cooking and music.
He is survived...
Martha McElrath Pitts
Sep 15, 2025
Martha June Pitts, age 81, of Candler, NC passed away Monday, September 15, 2025, at her home surrounded by family. A native of Haywood County but lived most of her life in Candler.
She is preceded in death by her husband Homer Pitts; sons Jerry Anderson and Randy Anderson; brother Bobby McElrath and sister Phyllis McElrath; parents Lucille Cope and Moody...
Julia Suttles Jones
Sep 13, 2025
Julia Lorraine (“Lorrie”) Jones, 77 of Hendersonville, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025. Lorrie (maiden name, Suttles) was born as the first daughter to Elmer Calvin Suttles and Evelyn Jones Suttles on October 4, 1947 in Hendersonville, North Carolina. She attended and graduated from East Henderson High School 1966-1967 and lived in Henderson County most of her life.
Lorrie is...
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Recent Obituaries in Buncombe County, North Carolina
Andrew Charles Hollifield
Jan 21, 2026
Andrew Charles Hollifield, age 64, of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital. He was born on November 29, 1961, in Spruce Pine, where he remained a lifelong resident.
Andrew was a 1980 graduate of Mitchell High School, where he proudly played basketball. Known for his strong work ethic, he spent his...
Beth Marie Metzker
Dec 30, 2025
Beth Metzker, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother, passed away on December 30th, 2025.
Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Beth spent much of her life in Indian Trail, North Carolina, where she resided with her husband, Willard “Bill” Metzker. Together they shared nearly 42 years of marriage, they created a life centered on family. Beth was a proud and devoted mother to...
Larry Wade Boyd
Dec 29, 2025
Larry Wade Boyd, born on February 13, 1965, passed away on December 29, 2025. A devoted father and loving son, Larry left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know him.
As a heavy equipment operator in the construction business, Larry found joy and purpose in his work. His expertise with big rigs and heavy machinery was matched...
Allen Lee Lunsford
Dec 20, 2025
Allen Lee Lunsford, 65, passed away on December 20, 2025, in Flat Rock, North Carolina. Born on May 5, 1960, in Asheville, North Carolina, Allen lived a life full of energy, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
A devoted father and cherished friend, Allen was known for his towering presence—both in stature and spirit. His infectious smile and unmistakable laugh left a lasting...
Charles Arthur Gates
Dec 15, 2025
Charles Arthur Gates, born on January 16, 1961, in Long Beach, California, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, at Elizabeth House in Flat Rock, North Carolina. He lived a life marked by service, laughter, and unwavering love for his family.
Charles served in the United States Marine Corps from 1979 to 1981. His bravery and commitment during this time earned...
Peter M. Hess
Dec 13, 2025
In Loving Memory of Peter M. Hess,
Peter M. Hess, 79, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Asheville, NC, on Saturday, December 13th, 2025.
Peter was born on September 24th, 1946, to Marie Marie (née Mann) Jefferies & Harold Hess. After graduating from Whitefish Bay High School in 1964, he served in the United States Air Force where...
Robert Rodriguez
Nov 27, 2025
Robert Rodriguez, 59, born in Dallas, Texas, and a resident of Bakersville, North Carolina, passed away early Thanksgiving morning. His passing leaves a deep and heartfelt loss for his family, friends, and all who knew him.
Robert lived a blessed and full life. His journey took him all over the United States, and his travels around the world shaped him into...
Robert A. McCarty
Nov 23, 2025
Robert A. McCarty, a beloved husband, brother, and son, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, at CarePartners Solace Center in Asheville, North Carolina, with his devoted husband, Barry McDade, and his dog, Charlie, by his side. Born in September, 1958, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Rob lived a life filled with love, creativity, and a passion for technology and the arts.
A...
Laura Lee Schock
Nov 16, 2025
Laura Lee Schock, 57 of Candler, NC passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC.
Laura was born on May 6th, 1968, to Linda “Lyn” (Schock) Soper and Joseph Schock, Sr. She grew up in Beverly, Massachusetts until she reached the age of 16, when she moved to Ohio to live with her father.
Laura was...
Jack Milton Whiteted
Oct 24, 2025
Jack Milton Whiteted departed this earth peacefully on October 24th 2025 at his daughter's home in NC.
Born in Garrard Co. KY, September 30 1937 to James Tramuel (d.) and Zella Mae (d.) Jack was the youngest of 5 children. He was preceded in death by all of his siblings; Iona Jean, James Jr., Doris (Pietrzak) and Curt.
He is also preceded...
Jane C. Young
Oct 21, 2025
Jane Churchill Young, of Mills River NC, departed this earth on October 21, 2025 at her home, surrounded by loved ones. She was 94.
Jane was born on October 14, 1931 in New York City to her parents Francis Rufus Bellamy, author and editor, and Viriginia Woods Bellamy, author and poet. They lived in Cold Spring Harbor on Long Island from...
Gary Dean Robinson
Oct 20, 2025
Gary Robinson, age 70, of Candler, North Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born on October 3, 1955, Gary was a proud graduate of Easley High School and Clemson University, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering.
Gary’s lifelong passion for communication and technology led him to a remarkable 45-year career in radio broadcasting. He began working at...
Jonathan "John" Phillip Messer
Oct 18, 2025
Jonathan “John” Phillip Messer, 53, of Candler, North Carolina, passed away on October 18, 2025 of a heart attack. John was born on December 30th, 1971 in Petosky, Michigan, but grew up in Waynesville, North Carolina.
He was preceded in death by his father Jonathan Phillip Messer and his mother Caroline Beardsly Messer. He is survived by his wife Shaleena Messer,...
Ronald "Ron" Wayne Pepin
Oct 12, 2025
Ronald “Ron” Wayne Pepin, 87 of Black Mountain, North Carolina passed into the arms of his loving Savior on October 12, 2025. He was born on February 19, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois to the late William J. Pepin and Agnes J. (Kaeding) Pepin.
Ron was preceded in death by sister Emily Pepin, his parents, grandson Griffin Nickerson and his loving wife...
Joann Lowe Jones
Oct 10, 2025
Mary Joann Lowe Jones, 88, of Asheville NC, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, October 10, 2025.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Kim Jones Fisher. Those left to cherish her memory are her son Greg Jones(Sandy). Her sister, Linda Lowe Cole and the loves of her life, her 4 grandchildren, Chris Fisher, Brandi...
Joanne Ruth Stovall
Sep 30, 2025
The world lost one of its most colorful souls when Joanne Ruth Stovall slipped peacefully into rest on September 30, 2025, in Asheville, North Carolina. She leaves behind her beloved daughter, Britni Anna McCollum (formerly Holtsinger), her son-in-law Bryan McCollum, her brother Larry Lasater and his wife Olga Lasater, as well as cherished nieces and nephews.
Born in Gainesville, Florida, on...
Neil Carter
Sep 24, 2025
Robert “Neil” Carter, affectionately known to most as “Ding Ding,” 76, of Seneca, South Carolina, passed away on September 24, 2025. He was born September 10, 1949, in Western North Carolina, to the late Robert Wayne Carter and Annie Louise (Buckner) Carter.
Neil was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved sister Sonya Bentley, and brothers-in-law Bob Bentley and Terry...
James "Roderick" Roderick Dickson
Sep 23, 2025
James "Roderick" Dickson, a resident of Asheville, NC, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025 in Asheville. Born on December 4, 1970 in Asheville, NC, he was the son of Ambler James Dickson and Patricia (Geter) Dickson. James "Roderick" Dickson was a graduate of AC Reynolds High School in 1988 .
Outside of work, he enjoyed cooking and music.
He is survived...
Martha McElrath Pitts
Sep 15, 2025
Martha June Pitts, age 81, of Candler, NC passed away Monday, September 15, 2025, at her home surrounded by family. A native of Haywood County but lived most of her life in Candler.
She is preceded in death by her husband Homer Pitts; sons Jerry Anderson and Randy Anderson; brother Bobby McElrath and sister Phyllis McElrath; parents Lucille Cope and Moody...
Julia Suttles Jones
Sep 13, 2025
Julia Lorraine (“Lorrie”) Jones, 77 of Hendersonville, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025. Lorrie (maiden name, Suttles) was born as the first daughter to Elmer Calvin Suttles and Evelyn Jones Suttles on October 4, 1947 in Hendersonville, North Carolina. She attended and graduated from East Henderson High School 1966-1967 and lived in Henderson County most of her life.
Lorrie is...
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