Obituaries
Jimmie Blythe
Feb 24, 2026
It is with heavy hearts we announce that Jimmie Monroe Blythe passed away quietly at his home on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at the age of 83.
Born in Orange County, NC on August 28, 1942, to Ruby Jordan and Morris Blythe, Jim resided in the small community of Bat Cave, NC for the past 48 years.
A lifelong musician, Jim played...
Matthew James Grzeskowiak
Feb 16, 2026
Matthew built a meaningful career as a chemist in the pharmaceutical industry, a path that allowed him to travel throughout the United States, where he was able to land in North Carolina. His work reflected his intelligence, dedication, and curiosity about the world.
He enjoyed his time living in Brevard, North Carolina to the fullest while exploring the mountains and waterfalls...
Dale Scott Palmer
Feb 12, 2026
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our dad, Dale Scott Palmer, also known as “Del-Rio Dale,” at the age of 59 on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
Dale was born on July 11, 1966, in Rome, Georgia, the son of the late Julian and Betsy Ruth Palmer.
Dale was a true motorcycle enthusiast. He loved long, scenic rides...
James Eugene Keiper
Feb 7, 2026
James Eugene Keiper, age 83, of Waynesville, NC; Fruitland Park, FL; Chanhassen and Hackensack, MN, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026, in Asheville, North Carolina.
Jim was born on Wednesday, October 28, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to Delphin Courtley Keiper and Eleanor Rose Pakulski Keiper. After the early loss of his father, Jim and his brother Richard were lovingly...
Jason Dean Fisher
Feb 4, 2026
Jason Dean Fisher, 50, of Brevard, passed away at home peacefully surrounded by family and friends on February 4, 2026 @ 4:36 PM, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born December 25, 1975, to his parents Brenda Kay O’Shields Shelton and Michael Ralph Fisher in Brevard, NC. Jason grew up running the mountains of Transylvania County and living life to the...
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
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
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
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
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...
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Recent Obituaries in Buncombe County, North Carolina
Jimmie Blythe
Feb 24, 2026
It is with heavy hearts we announce that Jimmie Monroe Blythe passed away quietly at his home on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at the age of 83.
Born in Orange County, NC on August 28, 1942, to Ruby Jordan and Morris Blythe, Jim resided in the small community of Bat Cave, NC for the past 48 years.
A lifelong musician, Jim played...
Matthew James Grzeskowiak
Feb 16, 2026
Matthew built a meaningful career as a chemist in the pharmaceutical industry, a path that allowed him to travel throughout the United States, where he was able to land in North Carolina. His work reflected his intelligence, dedication, and curiosity about the world.
He enjoyed his time living in Brevard, North Carolina to the fullest while exploring the mountains and waterfalls...
Dale Scott Palmer
Feb 12, 2026
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our dad, Dale Scott Palmer, also known as “Del-Rio Dale,” at the age of 59 on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
Dale was born on July 11, 1966, in Rome, Georgia, the son of the late Julian and Betsy Ruth Palmer.
Dale was a true motorcycle enthusiast. He loved long, scenic rides...
James Eugene Keiper
Feb 7, 2026
James Eugene Keiper, age 83, of Waynesville, NC; Fruitland Park, FL; Chanhassen and Hackensack, MN, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026, in Asheville, North Carolina.
Jim was born on Wednesday, October 28, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to Delphin Courtley Keiper and Eleanor Rose Pakulski Keiper. After the early loss of his father, Jim and his brother Richard were lovingly...
Jason Dean Fisher
Feb 4, 2026
Jason Dean Fisher, 50, of Brevard, passed away at home peacefully surrounded by family and friends on February 4, 2026 @ 4:36 PM, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born December 25, 1975, to his parents Brenda Kay O’Shields Shelton and Michael Ralph Fisher in Brevard, NC. Jason grew up running the mountains of Transylvania County and living life to the...
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
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
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
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
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...
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HeartLight offers a variety of support groups, education, resources, and special programming related to grief and loss.
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