Obituaries

Mary Jayne Shook

Mary Jayne Shook

Feb 4, 2026

Mary Jayne Shook was born on Friday, July 6th, 1945 in Haywood County, North Carolina. Raised there by her parents, William Joseph Ford and Edna Ruth Rice Mary Jayne grew up in Haywood County alongside her siblings Elizabeth Ann Turpin, Linda Gail Inman, and William Cecil Ford. Mary was a proud graduate of Canton High School, Class of 1964.

Mary devoted...

Tonia Lanise Bouhkris

Tonia Lanise Bouhkris

Jan 27, 2026

Tonia Lanise Bouhkris, age 55, of Hendersonville, North Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

She was born on Saturday, February 14, 1970, in Hendersonville, NC, to Vernon Eugene King and Teresa Phillis Stepp King. Tonia lived her life deeply rooted in the community she loved, spending her entire life in Hendersonville.

On August 21, 1992, Tonia married the love of...

Deborah Ruth Roper

Deborah Ruth Roper

Jan 26, 2026

Deborah Ruth Roper, a resident of Otto, NC, passed away Monday, January 26th, 2026, unafraid and surrounded by love after a brief, yet courageous battle with cancer.

Deborah, affectionately known as Debbie, was born on July 9th, 1963, at Angel Medical Center in Franklin, NC. Debbie grew up wild and free in beautiful Burningtown, NC, chasing streams, climbing mountains, and having...

Dorothy Anne Lovely

Dorothy Anne Lovely

Jan 26, 2026

Dorothy Anne Lovely, 77, of Etowah, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, January 26, 2026, following a brave battle with cancer.

Dorothy was born on Monday, July 26, 1948, in Attleboro, Massachusetts. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard S. Wagle and Adele E. Wagle; her sister, Adele Gockenbach; and her beloved husband of 42...

Andrew Charles Hollifield

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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...

Recent Obituaries in Buncombe County, North Carolina

Mary Jayne Shook

Mary Jayne Shook

Feb 4, 2026

Mary Jayne Shook was born on Friday, July 6th, 1945 in Haywood County, North Carolina. Raised there by her parents, William Joseph Ford and Edna Ruth Rice Mary Jayne grew up in Haywood County alongside her siblings Elizabeth Ann Turpin, Linda Gail Inman, and William Cecil Ford. Mary was a proud graduate of Canton High School, Class of 1964.

Mary devoted...

Tonia Lanise Bouhkris

Tonia Lanise Bouhkris

Jan 27, 2026

Tonia Lanise Bouhkris, age 55, of Hendersonville, North Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

She was born on Saturday, February 14, 1970, in Hendersonville, NC, to Vernon Eugene King and Teresa Phillis Stepp King. Tonia lived her life deeply rooted in the community she loved, spending her entire life in Hendersonville.

On August 21, 1992, Tonia married the love of...

Deborah Ruth Roper

Deborah Ruth Roper

Jan 26, 2026

Deborah Ruth Roper, a resident of Otto, NC, passed away Monday, January 26th, 2026, unafraid and surrounded by love after a brief, yet courageous battle with cancer.

Deborah, affectionately known as Debbie, was born on July 9th, 1963, at Angel Medical Center in Franklin, NC. Debbie grew up wild and free in beautiful Burningtown, NC, chasing streams, climbing mountains, and having...

Dorothy Anne Lovely

Dorothy Anne Lovely

Jan 26, 2026

Dorothy Anne Lovely, 77, of Etowah, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, January 26, 2026, following a brave battle with cancer.

Dorothy was born on Monday, July 26, 1948, in Attleboro, Massachusetts. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard S. Wagle and Adele E. Wagle; her sister, Adele Gockenbach; and her beloved husband of 42...

Andrew Charles Hollifield

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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...