Patricia Ann Albritton, 76, of Andrews, passed away Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018, at her home.
    She was a native of Jefferson County, Ill., and the daughter of the late Harold and Edna Alexander Miller.
    Patricia was a hairdresser.
    She was a member of Cornerstone Community Church. She was a strong christian lady, loved her family and church family.
    In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Betty Jane Martin.
    She is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Anderson of Robbinsville; grandchildren, Melissa Blevins and David Blevins; and great-grandson, Hudson Blevins.
    A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at Cornerstone Community Church, 253 Robbins Road, Andrews, NC 28901. Pastor Marcus Larey will officiate.
    The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at Cornerstone Community Church.
    In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory of Patricia Ann Albritton, to Cornerstone Community Church, P.O. Box 1175, Andrews, NC 28901.
    You may send tributes to the Albritton family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson Rose Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

    Elmer Gene Bryant was a storyteller. He liked nothing better than holding court with friends and family while regaling tales that made everyone laugh and cry. His own life story is certainly worthy of recounting.  
    Gene’s life began on March 10, 1943. He finished his race two days before his 51st wedding anniversary Friday, Nov. 30, 2018.
    He was preceded in death by parents, Horace L. Bryant and Nora Taylor Bryant; brothers Paul Bryant, Jim Bryant, Mark Bryant and Charlie Bryant; and a sister, Elda Bryant Hensley.   
    Many family and friends remain behind to honor his memory. He is survived by the love of his life, wife Bessie Mason Bryant. Once, early in their marriage, Bessie declared she was leaving. Gene packed a bag and said he loved her so much he would just go with her. Bessie realized Gene was a keeper, and she stayed.
    Gene was adored by his children: a daughter, Sandy West (husband Danny); a son, Randy Bryant (wife Jeana). Devin and Brayden West were more than his grandsons; they counted their papaw as their best friend. Gene relished in his grandsons with rough housing and practical jokes, fishing and flea marketing. In May, Gene was so proud to watch Brayden give the valedictorian speech as he graduated high school. In October, Gene was able to stand with Devin while performing his marriage ceremony to his own true love, Kyndra.
    Gene often spoke of his special adopted granddaughter, Hannah Thacker. He is also survived by sister, Burdell Bryant Church, of Concord.  
    In his life, Gene enjoyed a range of jobs, duties and offices. He served on the Macon County Board of Education, and as an official who married many couples.
    He loved his church family and went to Rowland’s Creek Baptist Church every time the doors were open, and for some time while there also served as Sunday school superintendent.
    He built clutches, worked for Asheville Paving, worked at Magnavox, and served as a mailman. He worked and retired from the Asheville Citizen-Times as a district manager. He managed a fleet of sno-kone trucks that brought happiness to thousands of children on many hot summer days.
    Perhaps his favorite job of all was working at the “Nantahala Walmart,” aka the recycling center, where he was able to enjoy his favorite hobby of looking for treasure.
    One of his most lovable qualities was his way of giving nicknames to everyone. His friends will remember that he often ignored their given names for titles like Tobe, Dithers, Catechism, Drybones and Spider. His nicknames were badges of honor and often stuck because it helped flavor the rest of our world with some of Gene’s humor and spirit.
    Gene loved flea markets and had a passion for collecting anything and trading for everything. He never met a stranger he didn’t talk to or try to trade with.
    Everyone who knows Gene will remember he was celebrated for amassing things. It was a common understanding that “if you needed something, Gene Bryant either had it or knew where to find it.” Objects that many people discarded as junk, Gene would pick up and bring home. He had a special way of looking at everything – it was never junk to him. He always saw the potential in all creation – nothing was junk – just things waiting to find their purpose. He always saw the value instead of deficiency.
    His optimistic view wasn’t limited to the things found at flea markets, junkyards and the “Nantahala Walmart.” He also saw the same kind of potential and good in people. Even in people who were like the abandoned items he salvaged; even if they appeared to have no good or worth left in them. Gene always said good things, saw the best and professed hope for the others everyone else had given up on.
    It was his mission to show them God. He was always asking others if they knew the Lord, trying to find a glimmer of worth or treasure somewhere in that person’s heart, despite their reputation, behavior or history.
    Gene’s decency and humbleness in this respect made him the rare find, a treasure among men. He lived his life as a shining Christian example and although he loved collecting “stuff,” it will be his collection of friends and family that is the most lasting testament to his life.   
    Gene Bryant’s final days were indicative of a man who engineered a life well spent. Although he will be sorely missed, his final chapter should be read as a happy ending.
    He spent his last week surrounded by a parade of friends and family who made the pilgrimage to Harris Community Hospital to see him before he shed the earthly house of this tabernacle.
    The last moments of his story could not have been more beautiful. Those moments were spent peacefully, accompanied by his sweet wife and daughter quietly singing his favorite hymns while leaning in closely so he could hear them. He drifted into eternity to meet his Lord and Savior in the best possible way.
    Although his body was failing and modern medicine could not intervene, Gene had already secured his eternity 60 years ago by taking the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior. Gene’s family rests in the certainty that this husband, father and papaw was collected by God to join God’s own assortment of priceless things.   
    No one realized it at the time, but goodbyes were always important to Gene. When leaving his own parents house, he would say, “Love ’em,” meaning instructing his own children to love on their grandparents one at a time, the regular ritual of saying goodbye before they walked out the door.
    Gene was conscious of the ceremony of leaving. Every night he loved on his children, and as Sandy said, he wanted to hear her say, “Good Night Daddy – Love You – Sweet Dreams ‘Sweep’ Tight.”
    When Gene would prepare to leave after a visit to a neighbor or relative, he would say, “All youns come and go with us.” And if we could hear him right now, that is probably what he is saying to us, inviting us to follow him into the Kingdom.
    Funeral services were held at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3, at Rowland’s Creek Baptist Church with the Revs. Kenny Ball, Jim Postell and Dana Dockery officiating. The interment was at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 4, at Aquone Community Cemetery. Pallbearers were Devin and Brayden West, Fred Guffey, Mike and Doug Bryant, and Kenny Cope.  
    The family received friends from 5-6:45 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3, at Rowland’s Creek Baptist Church.  
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of the Rev. Gene Bryant to: Aquone Community Cemetery Fund, 71 Old School Road, Topton, NC  28781.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Andrew, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    John Carl Green, 86, of Brasstown, passed away Friday, Nov. 30, 2018, at Mission Hospital in Asheville.
    Carl was born Dec. 14, 1931, in Blairsville Ga.
    He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Murphy but attended Little Brasstown Baptist Church the last 22 years.
    He was a founding member and longtime supporter of the Brasstown Fire Department. Carl enjoyed music, and played his fiddle and mandolin with several local bands.
    He also enjoyed working with heavy equipment but was most known for owning and operating Green’s Gulf Station in Brasstown for 25 years.
    He was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Willie, Robert and Dale Green; and two sisters, Julia Caylor and Vesta Dyer.
    Survivors include his loving wife of 40 years, Shirley Huskins Green; one son, Jerry Green and wife Vicki of Brasstown, and their two sons, Cody Green of Carrboro, and Corey Green of Waynesville; one stepdaughter, Tammy Smith and husband Richard, and their three children, Christina, Brad and Amanda; and three great-grandchildren, all of Atlanta, Ga.
    The family received friends from 6-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2, at Cochran Funeral Home, Murphy.
    The funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3, at Cochran Funeral Home with the Rev. Aud Brown of Little Brasstown Church officiating, with the help of Harold Stiles. Music was provided by the Wilson Family.
    The immediate family enjoyed a graveside service with military honors. Military honors were provided by Murphy VFW Post 10222, Joe Miller Elkin American Legion Post 96, DAV Chapter 73 and Clay County VFW Post 6812.
    Arrangements were entrusted to Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy.
    You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest registry at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.

    Jimmie Lee Warner, 83, died at his home in Murphy about 6 a.m. Monday, Nov. 26, 2018.
    He was born in East St. Louis, Ill., on Jan. 25, 1935, to the late Doward and Wanda Stumbaugh Warner. He also was preceded in death by a sister, Beverly McCormick of Godfrey, Ill.
    He is survived by his wife, Louella Gray Warner, whom he married June 18, 1955, in Jerseyville, Ill. He also is survived by three sons: Doward and Beth Warner of St. Petersburg, Fla., Derek Warner of Tampa, Fla., and Daren and Sonya Warner of Murphy; one sister, Brenda Thompson of Godfrey, Ill.; several step grandchildren, Ashley D., Ashley B., Alice, Audrey, April, Heather and Samantha;  two step grandsons, Mathew and Jimmie, all of Florida. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.
    Jimmie was a 1954 graduate of Jerseyville High School, where he played trumpet, and was a member of the Nights of Columbus in Largo, Fla. He was a Scout Master and his three sons are Eagle Scouts. He was a volunteer fund aiser for the 1978 Largo Band of Gold, where he traveled to Europe with them.
    While living in Illinois, he worked at the space program in McDonald in St. Louis. He also traveled to Europe for a Rolling Security Co.
    He owned a belt and leather shop at Foster’s Flea Market and was known as “The Belt Man.”
    Jimmie also was a member of St. William Catholic Church.
    No services are planned at this time and interment will take place in Illinois at a later date.
    Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy, www.cochranfuneralhomes.com, is honored to be in charge of arrangements.

    Hardy Ledford, 78, of Andrews, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018, at his residence.
    Hardy was a lifetime resident of Cherokee County. He worked as a foreman for many construction companies throughout his life.
    Hardy was an outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing, and digging ramps.
    He also enjoyed spending time with his wife; grandson, John Robert Allen; and great-grandson, Macon Allen.
    He was the son of the late Willie Fortner and Ella Mae Postell. He also was preceded in death by a sister, Joan Hughes.
    Surviving are his wife of 46 years, Betty Jean Ledford; two daughters, Tammy Lea Adams and husband Roger, and Annette Allen and husband Kevin, all of Andrews; a son, Neal Ledford and wife Cathy of Asheville; two grandsons, John Robert Allen and Neal Ledford Jr.; a great-grandson, John Macon Allen; four sisters, Judy Cook and Lelia Ryan, both of Mineral Bluff, Ga., and Jane Davenport and Linda Campbell, both of Blue Ridge, Ga.; a brother, Wayne Postell of Crossville, Tenn.; several other grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Andrews, with the Rev. Mickey Stewart officiating. The interment will be in Red Marble Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Marty, Darrell and Garrel Holloway, Kent Haney, and George and Harold Postell.
    The family will receive friends from 1-1:50 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at Ivie Funeral Home, Andrews, prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Hardy Ledford to Little Brasstown Baptist Church, c/o the Brotherhood, P.O. Box 12, Brasstown, NC 28902.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Andrews, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Shirley Hood, 100, of Murphy, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018.
    She was a native of Totowa, N.J., where she lived throughout most of her life. She was a loving mother and homemaker. Shirley had an artist’s appreciation of nature, which she shared with her family and through her paintings. She was proud of the time she served as president of Women’s Club of Little Falls, New Jersey.
    Shirley later moved to Largo, Fla., where she lived for 20 years before moving to Murphy in 2009. She attended St. William Catholic Church with her family.
    Shirley celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by four generations of family. She was loved by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her.
    She was the daughter of the late William D. and Catherine Berdan O’Brien, and wife of the late Charles William Hood, who died March 27, 2009. She also was preceded in death by a son, Charles Wayne Hood; a sister, Katherine O’Brien; and two brothers, Ellis and Wayne O’Brien.
    Surviving are a daughter, Iris DeRosa and husband Jim of Murphy; a daughter-in-law, Sylvia Hood of Ocklawaha, Fla.; three grandsons, Christopher Wayne Hood and wife Danielle of Largo, Fla., William J. DeRosa and wife Samantha, and James G. DeRosa and wife Amy, all of Charlotte; five great-grandchildren, Christian and Connor Hood, and Josephine, Eva Marie and Aubrie DeRosa; and several nieces and nephews.
    An inurnment will be held at a later date at Bay Pines National Cemetery in St. Petersburg, Fla.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Shirley Hood to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Jimmie Lee Warner, 83, died at his home in Murphy about 6 a.m. Monday, Nov. 26, 2018.
    He was born in East St. Louis, Ill., on Jan. 25, 1935, to the late Doward and Wanda Stumbaugh Warner. He also was preceded in death by a sister, Beverly McCormick of Godfrey, Ill.
    He is survived by his wife, Louella Gray Warner, whom he married June 18, 1955, in Jerseyville, Ill. He also is survived by three sons: Doward and Beth Warner of St. Petersburg, Fla., Derek Warner of Tampa, Fla., and Daren and Sonya Warner of Murphy; one sister, Brenda Thompson of Godfrey, Ill.; several step grandchildren, Ashley D., Ashley B., Alice, Audrey, April, Heather and Samantha;  two step grandsons, Mathew and Jimmie, all of Florida. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.
    Jimmie was a 1954 graduate of Jerseyville High School, where he played trumpet, and was a member of the Nights of Columbus in Largo, Fla. He was a Scout Master and his three sons are Eagle Scouts. He was a volunteer fund aiser for the 1978 Largo Band of Gold, where he traveled to Europe with them.
    While living in Illinois, he worked at the space program in McDonald in St. Louis. He also traveled to Europe for a Rolling Security Co.
    He owned a belt and leather shop at Foster’s Flea Market and was known as “The Belt Man.”
    Jimmie also was a member of St. William Catholic Church.
    No services are planned at this time and interment will take place in Illinois at a later date.
    Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy, www.cochranfuneralhomes.com, is honored to be in charge of arrangements.

    Donald Wayne “Don” Reavis, 79, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to many, passed on to glory Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018.
    He was born Feb. 15, 1939, in Madison County to Carl and Juanita Jamerson Reavis.
    After graduating high school from Mars Hill High School, Don began a 56-year career in law enforcement when he served his country as a military policeman in the U.S. Army. He completed N.C. Highway Patrol Basic School in 1961 and worked the roads of Cherokee, Yancey and Buncombe counties with Troop G for 30 years, retiring with the rank of lieutenant in 1991.
    His sense of duty and love of law enforcement called him back into service to the citizens of Buncombe County. Fondly referred to as “Chief,” he served as chief deputy to Charlie Long and Van Duncan, retiring again in 2014.
    Don learned to trust the Lord at an early age.  Growing up in rural Madison County in a close-knit family, he learned the benefits that faith, family and honest work provide, and he held fast to those values until his death.
    Don taught children’s Sunday School and served in various roles in Murphy, Burnsville and Flat Creek Baptist churches. His hand-written notes for Sunday’s lesson, prepared only hours before his death, included Galatians 6:9: “And let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
    Don was preceded in death by his parents and brother Leroy Revis (Irene).
    Left to cherish his memory are his childhood sweetheart and wife of 57 years, Brenda Ray Reavis; son, Joseph D. Reavis (Susan); granddaughters, Amanda Williams (David), and Sarah; brothers, Homer Revis (Margaret) and Randy Rice; sister, Helen Revis Coyle (Daryl); several nieces and nephews; and his Flat Creek Baptist Church and Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department families.  
    The family received friends from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, at Blue Ridge Funeral Service in Mars Hill.  
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15, at Trinity Baptist Church, 216 Shelburne Road, Asheville.

    Leslie “Wayne” Pierce, a Vietnam War era veteran, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2018.
    Wayne was a native of Portsmouth, Va.; Gatesville, N.C.; and Hayesville.
    He was a pharmacy tech in the Navy and a graduate of the College of Albemarle.
    Wayne enjoyed traveling, movies, hunting, reading, playing checkers and spending time with his family. He was a N.C. state checker champion, as well as a champion athlete who excelled in track and wrestling, and held the state record for the fastest mile – 4 minutes and 16 seconds.
    Wayne owned his own tree service company for 37 years specializing in the removal of dangerous trees.
    Wayne was the son of Viola Hodges Pierce of Ahoskie and the late Leslie Elwood Pierce of Gatesville.
    He is survived by his beloved children, Rachel and Quinton Pierce, and his ex-wife, Wendy Pierce, all of San Antonio, Texas; son-in-law, Carlos Sanchez; his 14-year-old rat terrier, Queenie; siblings, Steve Pierce, Joan Evans and Connie Pierce, all of Ahoskie, and Terry Pierce of Florida; and several nieces and nephews.
    Wayne was laid to rest in the mountains of Murphy  beside his late wife Kathleen Pierce at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens with military graveside rites conducted by the VFW Post 10222, Joe Miller Elkin American Legion Post 96, DAV Chapter 72, American Legion Post 3532 and VFW Post 6812.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel of Hayesville. Pastor Mitchell Totherow officiated.
    The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel of Hayesville.
    You may send tributes to the Pierce family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

    Gerald A. “Jerry” Tipton, 84, of Murphy, passed away Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, in Blairsville, Ga.
    He was a native of Topeka, Kan., and lived in Orlando, Lakeland and Brandon, Fla., before moving to Murphy in 1993.  
    He was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the United States Air Force.
    Jerry retired in 1988 as manager of Transoceanic Freighting Services of IMCC in Tampa, Fla.
    He was a member of Murphy First Baptist Church, where he sang in the choir and a church quartet. He was also a long-time member of the Tampa Bay Heralds of Harmony Barber Shop Chorus in Tampa.
    Jerry loved playing tennis, practicing carpentry and studying the Bible.
    He was the son of the late William and Elva Rich Tipton. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Nancy Lyles Tipton; three sisters; and seven brothers.
    Surviving are his wife, Joyce Bundy Tipton; two daughters, Deanna Campbell and husband Bill of Milton, Ga., and Carol Foster and husband Brad of Lenexa, Kan.; a stepdaughter, Michele Armesto and husband Alberto of Woodbridge, Va.; a son, Allen Tipton of Cranford, N.J.; a stepson, Martin Armbrester and wife Maria of Maryville, Tenn.; a sister, Mildred Wray and husband Charles of Topeka, Kan.; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
    Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, followed by a reception at Murphy First Baptist Church with the Rev. Jimmy Tanner officiating. Pallbearers will be Walker Rowland, Larry Parrish, Larry Moyer, Danny Waters, Steve Hatfield and Fred Heath. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Fellowship 1 Sunday School class, Men’s Bible Study and Men’s Ministry.
    The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Ivie Home Funeral Home, Murphy.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Gerald A. “Jerry” Tipton to Murphy First Baptist Church, 517 Hiwassee St., Murphy, NC 28906.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Shirley Hood, 100, of Murphy, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018.
    She was a native of Totowa, N.J., where she lived throughout most of her life. She was a loving mother and homemaker. Shirley had an artist’s appreciation of nature, which she shared with her family and through her paintings. She was proud of the time she served as president of Women’s Club of Little Falls, New Jersey.
    Shirley later moved to Largo, Fla., where she lived for 20 years before moving to Murphy in 2009. She attended St. William Catholic Church with her family.
    Shirley celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by four generations of family. She was loved by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her.
    She was the daughter of the late William D. and Catherine Berdan O’Brien, and wife of the late Charles William Hood, who died March 27, 2009. She also was preceded in death by a son, Charles Wayne Hood; a sister, Katherine O’Brien; and two brothers, Ellis and Wayne O’Brien.
    Surviving are a daughter, Iris DeRosa and husband Jim of Murphy; a daughter-in-law, Sylvia Hood of Ocklawaha, Fla.; three grandsons, Christopher Wayne Hood and wife Danielle of Largo, Fla., William J. DeRosa and wife Samantha, and James G. DeRosa and wife Amy, all of Charlotte; five great-grandchildren, Christian and Connor Hood, and Josephine, Eva Marie and Aubrie DeRosa; and several nieces and nephews.
    An inurnment will be held at a later date at Bay Pines National Cemetery in St. Petersburg, Fla.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Shirley Hood to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Jewel Sneed Brooks, 98, of Andrews, passed away Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, at Murphy Rehabilitation & Nursing.
    Jewel was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County. She was a daughter of the late Fred and Elizabeth Brown Sneed.
    Jewel was of the Baptist faith and had retired from Lee’s.
    In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Brooks; brothers, Rosco, John and Fred Sneed; sisters, Celia Kincaid, Ida Palmer, Goldie Lance and an infant sister.
    Surviving are her daughter, Elizabeth Jones and husband Bob of Andrews; sons, Harold Brooks and wife Becky of Murphy and Ronnie Brooks and wife Carma of Andrews; granddaughters, Ronda Ramie and Brandy Robles; great-grandchildren, D.J. Martin and Brittany Luther; great-great-granddaughter, Addison Luther; and several nieces, nephews and caregivers.
    Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Townson-Rose Chapel in Andrews. The Rev. John Bailey will officiate. Burial will be at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be Danny Hedrick, Ed Green, David Lance, Jack Postell, Ronnie Adams and Anthony El-Khouri.
    The family will receive friends from noon-2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Townson-Rose Chapel in Andrews.
    In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Cherokee County Food Bank, 121 Main St., Andrews, NC 28901.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

    Alvin “Cider” Alden Adams, 75 of Andrews, passed away Monday, Dec. 10, 2018, at his residence.
    He was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, and the son of the late Alnie Alvin and WillaBelle Birchfield Adams.
    Cider was a consultant for Adams Construction, and he was retired from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
    He was a Master Mason in Andrews Masonic Lodge No. 529. He also was involved in the Oasis Shriners.
    Cider was a member of Valleytown Rural Fire Department and Andrews Rescue Squad for 30 years and refereed for the N.C. High School Athletic Association for more than 30 years.
    He enjoyed gardening, fishing and golfing. Cider adored his children and grandchildren.
    He was a member of Andrews First Baptist Church.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandsons, Will Adams and Andy Adams; twin sisters, Martha and Margaret Adams; and brother, Charles David Adams.
    He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia Lee Guffey Adams; two sons, Tim Adams and wife Wendy of Andrews; Anthony “Tony” and wife Kelly of Conover; one daughter, Angel Adams Massey and husband Jake of Sarasota, Fla.; brother, Stanley Adams and wife Kae of Andrews; grandchildren, Lillian Massey, Ellie Belle Adams, T.J. Massey; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 14, at Andrews First Baptist Church. The Rev. Calvin Bobo and Pastor Jesse Adams officiated. Burial was in Valley River Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jerome, Nicholas, Shoyne and Teddy Adams, Wesley Slagle, Thomas and Richie Tatham, Bill Gilroy and Neil Hoy. Honorary pallbearers were Bob Turner, Larry Dailey, Eddie Wood, Dave Bristol, Lance Bristol, Steve and Thomas Guffey, Dickey Tatham, Eddie, Harold, Larry, Floyd, Terry, Rance, Dalton and Christian Adams, Johnny Brown, Jamie Bateman, Adam Cross, Bill Bristol, Jerry Postell, Dr. Thomas Clayton and Adams Construction.
    The family received friends from 5:30-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at Andrews First Baptist Church.
    You may send tributes to the Adams family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

    Jack Killian, 79, of Murphy, passed away Monday, Dec. 10, 2018, at Murphy Rehabilitation & Nursing.
    Jack was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County. He was a son of the late Stella Ashe Taylor and Lonnie Killian.
    Jack was a manager of American General Finance Co. He loved racing cars and playing golf.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, David Killian.
    Surviving are his daughter, Kathy Killian; one brother, Bud Killian of Atlanta, Ga.; grandchildren, Jake and Karlee London, Cody, Cory, Gage Keaton and Noah Killian; and dear friend, Becky Killian.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy. Pastor Harold Stiles officiated. Burial was in Sunset Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jeff Ledford, Mike Townson, Terry Stiles, Jacky Jones, Danny Rich and Mike Hogsed.
    The family received friends from noon-2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home.
    You may send tributes to the Killian family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

    Tabetha Michelle Howard, 44, of Cleveland, Tenn., passed away Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, in Cleveland, Tenn.
    She was a native of Prince William County, Va., and the daughter of Gary Robert and Teresa Mathis Jones of Hayesville.
    Tabetha was a registered nurse and loved her job. She enjoyed her animals and boating.
    In addition to her parents, she is survived by her two daughters, Brooklyn Leamon and husband Dallas of Murphy, and Kayli Ann Howard of Cleveland, Tenn.; two brothers, Dustin Jones of Charlotte, and Brett Jones and wife Rachel of Hayesville.
    A graveside service was held at noon Thursday, Dec. 13, at Valleytown Cemetery in Andrews.
    You may send tributes to the Howard family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

    Alvin “Cider” Alden Adams, 75, of Andrews, passed away Monday, Dec. 10, 2018, at his residence.
    He was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, and the son of the late Alnie Alvin and WillaBelle Birchfield Adams.
    Cider was a consultant for Adams Construction, and he was retired from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
    He was a Master Mason in Andrews Masonic Lodge No. 529. He also was involved in the Oasis Shriners.
    Cider was a member of the Valleytown Rural Fire Department and Andrews Rescue Squad for 30 years, and refereed for the N.C. High School Athletic Association for more than 30 years.
    He enjoyed gardening, fishing and golfing. Cider adored his children and grandchildren.
    He was a member of Andrews First Baptist Church.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandsons, Will Adams and Andy Adams; twin sisters, Martha and Margaret Adams; and brother, Charles David Adams.
    He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia Lee Guffey Adams; two sons, Tim Adams and wife Wendy of Andrews; Anthony “Tony” and wife Kelly of Conover; one daughter, Angel Adams Massey and husband Jake of Sarasota, Fla.; brother, Stanley Adams and wife Kae of Andrews; grandchildren, Lillian Massey, Ellie Belle Adams, T.J. Massey; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 14, at Andrews First Baptist Church. The Rev. Calvin Bobo and Pastor Jesse
Adams officiated. Burial was in Valley River Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jerome, Nicholas, Shoyne and Teddy Adams, Wesley Slagle, Thomas and Richie Tatham, Bill Gilroy and Neil Hoy. Honorary pallbearers were Bob Turner, Larry Dailey, Eddie Wood, Dave Bristol, Lance Bristol, Steve and Thomas Guffey, Dickey Tatham, Eddie, Harold, Larry, Floyd, Terry, Rance, Dalton and Christian Adams, Johnny Brown, Jamie Bateman, Adam Cross, Bill Bristol, Jerry Postell, Dr. Thomas Clayton and Adams Construction.
    The family received friends from 5:30-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at Andrews First Baptist Church.
    You may send tributes to the Adams family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

    Marie Crisp, 77, of Marble, passed away Thursday, Dec. 13, 2018, at Murphy Rehabilitation & Nursing.
    She was born in Blairsville, Ga., to the late Francis Marion and Winnie Clayton Early.
    Marie was a mill worker for several textile industries. She enjoyed word search puzzles.
    Marie was a member of Calvary Baptist Church.
    In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Joe Francis Early; and several half sisters.
    She is survived by her husband, Orville Crisp; one son, Shane Crisp and fiancee Amy Davis; several half sisters; and three grandchildren, Nicole Crisp, Christopher Crisp and Autumn Crisp.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec.15, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy. The Revs. Tony Ware and Aud Brown officiated. Burial was in Little Brasstown Baptist Church Cemetery.
    The family received friends from noon-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home in Murphy.
    The family is accepting flowers and also accepting donations to help with the funeral expenses.
    You may send tributes to the Crisp family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

    Floyd B. Bowen Jr., 79, of Austin, Texas, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018. He was born in Mulberry, Fla., on Dec. 30, 1938.
    In his youth, Floyd was active in Boy Scouts and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.
    He graduated from Columbia Military Academy in 1956. Floyd graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Business Administration in 1963 and was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity.
    He also served in the U.S. Army 4th Armor Division in Germany for two years active duty and three years of active reserves. He achieved the rank of staff sergeant and was honorably discharged.
    Floyd retired from the Exxon Corporation in 2000 after a 36-year career in sales, marketing management and government affairs. He ended his career as Texas Government Affairs Manager in Austin with responsibility for coordinating Exxon’s lobbying activities before the Texas Legislature.
    In addition, he participated in community activities and served on the board of directors of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and the board of the East Texas Chamber of Commerce. He also was a member of the Austin Lyric Opera Board of Trustees and a member of the board of directors of the Austin Symphony.
    Floyd was an active member in the Methodist church while living in Tallahassee. He held various leadership positions in Killearn Methodist Church. He was Lay Leader for the Tallahassee District and a delegate to the Florida Annual Conference in Lakeland. He attended Riverbend Church in Austin, Texas.
    Floyd was an avid reader, loved golf and playing bridge. He and wife, Lois, traveled extensively and loved being with his family when they gathered for family reunions. He enjoyed spending time at his home in Austin, Texas, as well as their home in the beautiful North Carolina mountains.
    Floyd is survived by his wife of 57 years, Lois Williams Bowen; and three children, Floyd B. Bowen III and wife Mary, Mark Andrew Bowen and wife Tracy,  and Julia Bowen Brockway and husband Jason.
    He is also survived by his five grandchildren, Heather Ferguson and husband Matt, Bradley Bowen and wife Cori, Jackson Bowen, Blake Brockway and Jenna Brockway; and one great-granddaughter, Kendall Bowen. Floyd is also survived by siblings Joan Melvin and husband Mike, Carol Ervin and husband Richard, and John Bowen and wife Janice.
    A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 7, 2019, in the Smith Family Chapel at Riverbend Church 4214 N. Capital of Texas Highway, Austin, Texas 78746.
    A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.
    Interment will be held in the family plot in Lakeland, Fla.

    Bobby James Jones, 82, of Andrews, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018, at his residence.
    He was born in Swain County to the late Joseph Fred and Nellie Hall Jones. He had worked in auto parts and for the ABC store in Murphy. He enjoyed gardening, flowers and riding his lawn mower.  
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Bill Jones.
    He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Brooks Jones; daughter, Tammy Jones of Dothan, Ala.; grandchildren, Matthew May and wife Skye, and Jordan Hand and wife Molly; great-grandchildren, Landon May, Dakota Arrow May and Mary Ellis Hand.
    Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy. The Rev. Bo Phillips will officiate. Burial will be in Tomotla Community Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jimmy Annis, Landon Annis, Jimmy Carringer, David Lance, Heath Woodard and Dustin Smith.
    The family will receive friends from noon-1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home.
    In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
    You may send tributes to the Jones family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

    Beverly Ann Caldwell Owenby, 72, of Murphy, passed away peacefully at her home Monday evening, Dec. 17, 2018, with her family by her side.
    She was born and raised in Murphy, and moved to the Atlanta area and raised her family there. She recently moved back to the mountains of North Carolina to enjoy retirement with the love of her life, Jerry Allen Owenby.
    She leaves behind nothing but beautiful memories and a grateful family.
    Ann graduated from Murphy High School and Young Harris College and also attended Georgia State University. She managed the U.S. Government Printing Office in downtown Atlanta for 31 years and retired in 2002.
    Ann was always up for an adventure, with anyone, anywhere. She loved to travel with her family and friends, and made many memories that we all treasure.
    She was the coolest mom, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend. She was the one everyone looked forward to seeing at family get-togethers, and she was usually the one that organized it all. She was the fun one, full of life, and took great pleasure in trying to embarrass us at every opportunity. She loved her family fiercely and unconditionally.
    Ann enjoyed any genre of music ... as long as it was good music ... and could dance with the best of them. She loved having her loved ones close and dedicated her life to family. She was an excellent cook and loved making Sunday dinner. She was accepting to everyone she met.
    Ann was born in Providence Hospital in Murphy. She was the daughter of the late Louise Mauney Dehart and stepfather Vinson Dehart.
    She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Jerry Allen Owenby of Murphy. She is also survived by four children, Tim Hughes and wife Tina of Murphy, Laurie Penn of Newnan, Ga., Carrie Guthrie and husband Brandon of Brooks, Ga., and Jennifer Metcalfe and husband Ward of Peachtree City, Ga. She was blessed with seven grandchildren, Nathan Hughes, Tia McKeon, Chase Penn, Jake Scott, Waits Guthrie, and Caraline and Gabriel Metcalfe. She also had five great-grandchildren, Natalie, Kaylee and Nash Hughes, Lincoln McKeon and Landon Penn. She is also survived by a brother, Russell Caldwell of Rockwall, Texas, and sister, Karen Wayman of Murphy; numerous nieces and nephews; and a very special friend, Vicky Taylor.
    Ann was a member of Ramah Baptist Church of Palmetto, Ga. She loved the Lord and looked to Him in times of trouble for herself and for others. She was a former member of Murphy First Baptist Church in Murphy and attended services there after she moved back to the mountains.
    Funeral services will be held at Murphy First Baptist Church on Thursday, Dec. 20. Visitation will be from noon-2 p.m. at the church. The service will immediately follow at 2 p.m. Graveside services will be at Friendship Baptist Church No. 2 Cemetery. The Revs. Jimmy Tanner and Aud Brown will officiate.
    Pallbearers will be Ward Metcalfe, Brandon Guthrie, Nathan Hughes, Stuart Wayman, Keith Zimmerman and Levi Zimmerman. Honorary pallbearers will be Hoyt Zimmerman, Jackie Wayman, Kenneth Lance, Jack Hedden, Wayne Wells and Lewis Voyles.
    In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Friendship Baptist Church No. 2 Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 1, Culberson, NC 28903; or the Alzheimer’s Association, Western Carolina Chapter, 4600 Park Road, Suite 250, Charlotte, NC 28215.
    You may send tributes to the Owenby family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.