Janet Marie Bassett, 81, of Murphy, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019, at her residence.
    She was a native of Summit County, Ohio, where she worked for the Summit County Sheriff’s Department for 21 years as a deputy sheriff. She retired to Murphy in 1993, where she continued to work as a caregiver.
    Janet loved animals and rescued many animals throughout her life.
    She was the daughter of the late Wanda Jennifer Kelley. She was also preceded in death by a son, Rick Bassett; and a sister, Patricia Taylor.
    Surviving are her husband of 59 years, Robert Bassett; three daughters, Terry Merrix and significant other Jim Marich of Murphy, Tammy Bassett of Avon Lake, Ohio, and Vonie Dockery and husband Wayne of Murphy; six grandchildren, Joey, Angela, Jimmy, Sean, Lauren and Crissy; four great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Christopher, Justin and Adilynn; and many extended family members.
    No services are planned at this time.
    The family requests memorials be made in memory of Janet Marie Bassett to the Valley River Humane Society, P.O. Box 658, Murphy, NC 28906.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Jack Mosteller, 88, Bellevue, Wash., passed away Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018.
    Jack was born in Andrews in 1930. He was named by his 3-year-old sister (she liked Cracker Jacks).
    He attended Mars Hill Prep and served in the U.S. Navy, 1951-55, during the Korean crisis.
    He and wife Arlene met in Southern California after graduating from the University of Northern Carolina.
    He retired after 38 years with Automatic Switch Co., bought out by Emerson. He had two offices – Bellevue and Foster City, Calif. His area covered Alaska, Washington, Montana to Reno in Nevada, and the Bay Area.
    He was athletic – coached Little League baseball for 15 years and played in senior softball leagues for 18 years starting at age 65. His team was the Eastside Seventy-Fives. On his 80th birthday, Jack hit a home-run with his son, wife and granddaughter yelling, “Go Grandpa!”
    Jack marshalled in the Bob Hope Classic, now called the Challenger, for 14 years with his brother, Joe. The players would come up to, stand with and talk to Jack. He never knew who the celebrities were – they were very relaxed with Jack.
He didn’t make a big deal over celebrities or ask for autographs. Later, his brother would tell him the celebrity’s name.
    He is survived by his sons, Bob, living in Honolulu, Hawaii, and Matt, living in Calgary, Alberta, Canada; five grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
    He was so proud of his family and their achievements.
    He loved seeing his neighbors out walking every day – it was the top of his morning to greet and exchange news. He was so happy living in Washington. He and his wife both met such great people.
    “I am grateful for the support and kindness of my neighbors during this time and the gracious young woman, Pat Martel, who cares for us all” – Arlene Mosteller and always, Jack.

    William Wayne Queen, 86, of Murphy, took his last flight on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019.
    Wayne was born and raised in Marble but spent his life as a traveler, an adventurer and a daredevil. As a child, Wayne would watch the planes flying overhead and tell everyone that he was going to grow up to be a pilot.
    In 1949, at the age of 16, he joined the Air Force and was sent to Korea, where he served as an airplane radio operator.
    Later in his military career, Wayne switched to the Army and became an officer, a pilot and a flight instructor. He did three tours of duty in Vietnam. After he retired from the Army, Wayne went on to work for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as an operations inspector. He also flew search and rescue missions.
    Despite his many accomplishments, Wayne was a humble man. Rather than talking about his Distinguished Flying Cross or his Bronze Star, he’d tell stories about the pet monkey he had in Vietnam or the many adventures he had while flying around the world. For example, he once flew his airplane under a highway overpass. When asked why, he replied “I just wanted to see if I could do it.” He traveled extensively and immersed himself in learning about other cultures, especially the people and the food.  
    He could talk to anyone about anything, and every stranger he met became a friend. He enjoyed laughing and telling jokes and tall tales, as well as getting into trouble, especially in the company of his brothers.
    Wayne loved hunting and fishing and lived in Alaska for many years. He once caught a record 67-pound king salmon. Rather than mounting it as a trophy, he cooked and serve it at the Queen family reunion.   
    Even though he left to see the world at a young age, Wayne’s favorite place was in a rocking chair on his mom’s front porch. He could often be found there, eating a glass of cornbread and milk. Whenever he was flying near Cherokee County, he would fly over various family members’ houses and tip his wings, which was a sign that someone needed to drive to the airport in Andrews to pick him up. Wayne loved his extended family and was proud of his Appalachian heritage and his family’s deep roots in Cherokee County.
    Generous to a fault, Wayne often gave his money, belongings, time and effort to help others. He had no patience with people who were lazy, nor could he abide authority figures, politicians or preachers. He loved horses, small children, pretty women, old dogs and good whiskey, but not necessarily in that order.
    Wayne returned to Cherokee County to spend his last days surrounded by the land and the people he loved. He leaves behind many friends and family members to mourn his passing and to find comfort in knowing that he has earned new wings.
    Per his request there will not be a funeral, but a private family gathering will be held at a later date.

    Fern Dennis, 69, of Cape Coral, Fla., and Murphy, passed away Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019.
    She was born June 19, 1949, in Trenton, N.J., to Frank and Pearl Pagliaro.
    Fern began her career as a radiology technician at Helene Fuld Hospital in Trenton, N.J. Upon moving to Lee County in 1975, she continued her career in radiology and managed the Women’s Breast Center for several years.
    She spent her adult life educating and creating awareness regarding breast cancer. Fern retired from Lee Health in 2011 as director of ambulatory services.
    She enjoyed spending her time volunteering and boating with her husband, Denny.
    Fern will be greatly missed by her husband of 49 years, Denny; son, Gregory W. Dennis; sister, Lynne (Ben) Bell; brother, Guy (LeeAnn) Pagliaro; as well as several nieces and nephews.
    There will be a private Celebration of Life held for the family at a later date.
    In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society of Fort Myers.
    To express condolences to the family, please visit www.LTaylorFuneral.com and sign the online guest book.
    Arrangements are by Larry Taylor Funeral and Cremation Services in Punta Gorda, Fla.

    Lisa Johnson, 55, of Murphy, passed away Friday, Jan. 11, 2019, in a Chattanooga, Tenn., hospital.
    She was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, but raised in Murphy, where she lived most of her life.
    She graduated from Murphy High School and went on to work as a cosmetologist for more than 30 years.
    Lisa was a devoted and loving mother, a caring friend, and very proud to be a grandmother to her two infant grandsons, and her only granddog, Daisy. She was a wonderful cook and enjoyed being together with family.
    She was the daughter of Jerry Johnson of Murphy and the late Patricia Marie Johnson.
    Surviving are two daughters, Cierra Johnson and Carina Dockery, both of Murphy; two sons, Kyle and Kamen Dockery, both of Murphy; three brothers, Richard Bowling of Hamilton, Ohio, Timothy and Steve Johnson of Murphy; and two grandsons, Carter Rowland and Larkin Johnson. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.  
    Funeral services were held at noon Tuesday, Jan. 15, int the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Rev. Warren Golden officiating. The interment was in Ogreeta Cemetery. Pallbearers were Steve and Tim Johnson, Carl Dockery, Cullen and Mitch Garmon, Mike Carter and Austin Rowland.
    The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 14, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Effie “Cricket” Marie Stiles Clayton, 80, of Murphy, passed away Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019, in Murphy Rehab & Nursing.
    She was a native of Cherokee County, and the daughter of the late Rev. Noah and Tempa  Stiles. She also was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Clayton; son, Bobby Clayton; and daughter, Charlene Henderson.
    She is survived by four grandchildren, Danny and Barry Clayton, Dwayne and Jessica Henderson and their families; one daughter-in-law, Sandy Ashe; a very special nephew, Jason Mann; brother, Walter Stiles; four sisters, Stella Mann, Jeanette Ray, Geraldine Wray and Rosa Mae Green;and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
    Burial will be in Snow Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.
    You may send tributes to the Clayton family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

    Jack Mosteller, 88, of Bellevue, Wash., passed away Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018.
    Jack was born in Andrews in 1930. He was named by his 3-year-old sister (she liked Cracker Jacks).
    He attended Mars Hill Prep and served in the U.S. Navy, 1951-55, during the Korean War.
    He and wife Arlene met in Southern California after graduating from the University of Northern Carolina.
    He retired after 38 years with Automatic Switch Co., bought out by Emerson. He had two offices – Bellevue and Foster City, Calif. His area covered Alaska, Washington, Montana to Reno in Nevada, and the Bay Area.
    He was athletic – coached Little League baseball for 15 years and played in senior softball leagues for 18 years starting at age 65. His team was the Eastside Seventy-Fives. On his 80th birthday, Jack hit a home-run with his son, wife and granddaughter yelling, “Go Grandpa!”
    Jack marshalled in the Bob Hope Classic, now called the Challenger, for 14 years with his brother, Joe. The players would come up to, stand with and talk to Jack. He never knew who the celebrities were – they were very relaxed with Jack. He didn’t make a big deal over celebrities or ask for autographs. Later, his brother would tell him the celebrity’s name.
    He is survived by his sons, Bob, living in Honolulu, Hawaii, and Matt, living in Calgary, Alberta, Canada; five grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
    He was so proud of his family and their achievements. He loved seeing his neighbors out walking every day – it was the top of his morning to greet and exchange news. He was so happy living in Washington. He and his wife both met such great people.
    “I am grateful for the support and kindness of my neighbors during this time and the gracious young woman, Pat Martel, who cares for us all” – Arlene Mosteller and always, Jack.

    Dorothy “Dot” McMahan Owenby, 94, of Andrews, passed away Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019, in a Murphy care facility.
    Dorothy was a native of Nantahala, but lived in Andrews most of her life. Dot worked at Berkshire Mills and Lay’s 5&10 throughout her life. She was a member of Faith Baptist Tabernacle, where she volunteered with “The Golden Girls” serving families in need.
    She was the daughter of the late Horace Judson and Esther Mashburn McMahan, and wife of the late David Lee “D.L.” Owenby Jr. She also was preceded in death by two sisters, Mantolene Ivester and an infant sister, Pauline McMahan; two brothers, J.D. McMahan and an infant brother, Kenneth McMahan; two sisters-in-law, Martha McMahan and Margie McMahan; and a brother-in-law, J.V. Ivester.
    Surviving are a son, Dick Lee Owenby and wife Shirley of Dillon, Mont.; a grandson, David Lee Owenby and wife Kelley of Erie, Colo.; a sister, Janet Cearley and husband Joe of Chatsworth, Ga.; four brothers, Manuel McMahan and Doyle McMahan, both of High Point, Dillard McMahan and wife Hildred of Topton, and James McMahan and wife Vivian of Andrews; a sister-in-law, Wanda McMahan of High Point; and many nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 13, at Faith Baptist Tabernacle with the Revs. Wayne Morgan and Eddie Hardin officiating. The interment was in Briartown Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were Gary McMahan, John Kilpatrick, J.D. Queen, Pearly Owenby, Reid Wilson and Darryl Brown.
    The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12, at Ivie Funeral Home, Andrews, where the body remained until placed in the church 30 minutes prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Dorothy “Dot” McMahan Owenby to Briartown Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Sidney May, 877 Briartown Church Road, Topton, NC 28781.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Andrews, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    William Wayne Queen, 86, of Murphy, took his last flight on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019.
    Wayne was born and raised in Marble, but spent his life as a traveler, an adventurer and a daredevil. As a child, Wayne would watch the planes flying overhead and tell everyone that he was going to grow up to be a pilot.
    In 1949, at age 16, he joined the Air Force and was sent to Korea, where he served as an airplane radio operator. Later in his military career, Wayne switched to the Army and became an officer, a pilot and a flight instructor. He did three tours of duty in Vietnam. After he retired from the Army, Wayne went on to work for the Federal Aviation Administration as an operations inspector. He also flew search and rescue missions.
    Despite his many accomplishments, Wayne was a humble man. Rather than talking about his Distinguished Flying Cross or his Bronze Star, he’d tell stories about the pet monkey he had in Vietnam or the many adventures he had while flying around the world. For example, he once flew his airplane under a highway overpass. When asked why, he replied, “I just wanted to see if I could do it.” He traveled extensively and immersed himself in learning about other cultures, especially the people and the food.  
    He could talk to anyone about anything, and every stranger he met became a friend. He enjoyed laughing and telling jokes and tall tales, as well as getting into trouble, especially in the company of his brothers.
    Wayne loved hunting and fishing and lived in Alaska for many years. He once caught a record 67-pound king salmon. Rather than mounting it as a trophy, he cooked and served it at the Queen family reunion.   
    Even though he left to see the world at a young age, Wayne’s favorite place was in a rocking chair on his mom’s front porch. He could often be found there, eating a glass of cornbread and milk. Whenever he was flying near Cherokee County, he would fly over various family members’ houses and tip his wings, which was a sign that someone needed to drive to the airport in Andrews to pick him up. Wayne loved his extended family and was proud of his Appalachian heritage and his family’s deep roots in Cherokee County.
    Generous to a fault, Wayne often gave his money, belongings, time and effort to help others. He had no patience with people who were lazy, nor could he abide authority figures, politicians or preachers. He loved horses, small children, pretty women, old dogs and good whiskey, but not necessarily in that order.
    Wayne returned to Cherokee County to spend his last days surrounded by the land and the people he loved. He leaves behind many friends and family members to mourn his passing and to find comfort in knowing that he has earned new wings.
    Per his request there will not be a funeral, but a private family gathering will be held at a later date.

    Joanne H. Newman Johnson, born Sept. 13, 1936, departed this life Friday, Jan. 4, 2019. She resided in Lawrenceville, Ga.
    The daughter of Joe and Polly Hawkins, Joanne was born and grew up in Murphy. She was a member of The First United Methodist Church of Lawrenceville, Ga., and former member of Shady Grove Baptist Church of Murphy.
    Joanne retired after more than 40 years with The Coca Cola Co. She was active in the Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority, Coca Cola board of directors for the Coca Cola alumni association, Business, Professional Women and First United Methodist Women and Genealogy, and a very active member in First United Methodist Joy class.
    She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert E. Johnson; her parents, Polly and Joe Hawkins; sister, Frances Price; brothers, J.C Hawkins, Howard Hawkins and Johnny Hawkins; and son, Jeff Johnson.
    She is survived by her children, Lisa Murchison, Jean and Keith Young, Sandy and Steve Morris, Judy Bell, and Steve and Kristen Johnson; grandchildren, Jamie and Kristi Murchison, Brad Murchison, Robert and William Johnson, Caroline Young, LeeAnn Morris, Ashleigh Morris, Brennan Morris, Rachael Bell, Carmen and Ryan Johnson; and great-grandson, Doyle Murchison; brother, Joe Hawkins; sisters-in-law, Gail and Kay Hawkins; and special nieces and nephews.
    In lieu of flowers, Joanne asked for donations to be made to either The First United Methodist Church of Lawrenceville, Ga., or Shady Grove Cemetery in Murphy.
    Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12, at The First United Methodist Church of Lawrenceville located at 395 W. Crogan St., Lawrenceville, GA 30046.  
    Any additional service announcements can be found at the Wages & Sons website link: https://www.wagesandsons.com/obit/joanne-newman-johnson/.

    Janet Marie Bassett, 81, of Murphy, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019, at her residence.
    She was a native of Summit County, Ohio, where she worked for the Summit County Sheriff’s Department for 21 years as a deputy sheriff. She retired to Murphy in 1993, where she continued to work as a caregiver. Janet loved animals and rescued many animals throughout her life.
    She was the daughter of the late Wanda Jennifer Kelley. She was also preceded in death by a son, Rick Bassett; and a sister, Patricia Taylor.
    Surviving are her husband of 59 years, Robert Bassett; three daughters, Terry Merrix and significant other Jim Marich of Murphy, Tammy Bassett of Avon Lake, Ohio, and Vonie Dockery and husband Wayne of Murphy; six grandchildren, Joey, Angela, Jimmy, Sean, Lauren and Crissy; four great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Christopher, Justin and Adilynn; and many extended family members.
    No services are planned at this time.
    The family requests memorials be made in memory of Janet Marie Bassett to the Valley River Humane Society, P.O. Box 658, Murphy, NC 28906.
    Ivie Funeral Home,
Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

Dec. 6, 1944 – Dec. 6, 2018
    Jamie A. Roth passed away on her birthday Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018, at the VA Hospital in Orlando, Fla.
    She was a native of Williams County, Ohio. She moved to Murphy from Florida 17 years ago.
    Jamie was an administrative assistant and travel coordinator for NASA, prior to working for Walmart in Murphy.
    Jamie loved to spend time with family and friends. She attended Peachtree Memorial Baptist Church.
    She was preceded in death by her mother and father.
    She is survived by her daughters; sons-in-law; and two grandchildren, Tamara Munsey (Russell Munsey), Yolanda Martin (Drew Martin); grandson, Patrick Weatherford; and granddaughter, Alexia Martin.
    A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Monday, Jan. 21, at Peachtree Memorial Baptist Church, 1650 N.C. 141, Murphy. Pastor Chris Furl will officiate. The family will celebrate her life in the fellowship hall after the service.
    Please contact the church for any arrangements at 828-835-3154.

    “The day my son was born my life changed forever”– Sandra Bullock.
    Sgt. Christopher J. Lockett, USMC, of Murphy, passed away Monday, Jan. 7, 2019, at the too young age of 26.
    In some ways, Chris was a walking contradiction. On one hand a big, strong, tough U.S. Marine and former intimidating presence on the football field. But he was also just as comfortable quietly walking arm-in-arm with his mom, Lisa, being her escort, simply being her son.
    Those who knew him best will miss the infectious smile of a guy who was usually the life of the party, the ever-present sense of humor and his love of good-natured embarrassment, especially when it came to his mom. One of his favorite things to do was show up at her workplace when she was least expecting it, just to get the reaction. Despite being a comedian a lot of the time, Chris was serious when it came to loyalty to his family and friends, and he would have their back without question when they needed him. He was, as his mother aptly put it, “Just one of a kind.”
    As a U.S. Marine, Chris earned the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (2), the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, NATO Medal-ISAF Afghanistan, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Sea Service Deployment Medal (2), Letter of Appreciation (3), Certificate of Commendation (individual award) and Meritorious Mast. He was a Marine Corps martial arts program instructor (first degree black belt), Marine combat marksmanship rifle expert second award, Water Survival qualified, Avionics Warfare equipment apprentice and Aircrew Survival equipment apprentice.
    Born July 17, 1992, Chris is survived by his mother, Lisa Marie Kotchenreuther, father Jeff Lockett and stepmother Megan Lockett, all of Murphy; grandparents David and Karen Cook of Marble; and siblings Dustin, Tyler, Ashley, Jessica and Ashlee.
    At his service, pallbearers will be Ryan Kotchenreuther, Garrin Hogsed, T.J. Major, Jerran Johnson, Jose Alvarez and Nathan Alvarez.
    In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Chris’ honor to the Wounded Warrior Project.
    Complete funeral arrangements will be announced later this week.
    You may send tributes to the Lockett family at www.townson-rose.com.
     Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

    Irene Martin, 87, of Blairsville, Ga., formerly of Murphy, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019, in Union County Nursing Home.
    She was a native of Cherokee County, where she lived most of her life until moving to Blairsville more than 18 years ago.
    She was a homemaker and member of New Martins Creek Baptist Church.
    She was the daughter of the late Jewell Sheridan and Ollie Elizabeth Chastain Martin.
    Surviving are two daughters, Brenda Lovett of Canton, Ga., and Jane Davenport of Blairsville, Ga.; three grandchildren, James Reese, Janie Farist and husband Shawn, and Jonathan Davenport and wife Rachel; and three great-grandchildren, Levi and Luke Farist, and Blane Davenport.
    Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Rev. Brent Chatham officiating. The interment will be in New Martins Creek Cemetery. Pallbearers will be James Reese, Luke, Levi, and Shawn Farist, J.L. Davenport, and Jerry Martin.
    The family will receive friends from noon-1:45 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, prior to the services.
    The family requests memorials be made in memory of Irene Martin to New Martins Creek Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Kimberly Wilson, 560 Wilson Road, Brasstown, NC 28902.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Verlen Hannah, 78, of Murphy, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019, in a Murphy hospital.
    Verlen was a native of Bessemer City, where he lived until age 21.
    He retired as a major after 23½ years with the United States Army, followed by 5½ years with the National Guard. During his military career, Verlen lived in Germany on two different occasions, Korea and Fort Gordon, Ga., near Augusta, before moving to Murphy in 1993.
    Verlen was of the Baptist faith.
    He was the son of the late Wenzlow Donald and Pearlee Weaver Hannah, and the husband of 57 years to Amanda Jane James Hannah, who died Nov.12, 2018. He also was preceded in death by a son, Richard Scott Hannah; a sister, Betty Lou Mitchem; and two brothers, Grady and Donald Hannah.
    Surviving are a daughter, Susan Lee Hannah and husband Steven Goldberg of Evans, Ga.; two sons, Stephen Mark Hannah and wife Margaret of Apex and Jason Keith Hannah and wife Mitzi of Martinez, Ga.; two sisters, Janice Arrowood and husband Danny of Seneca, S.C., and Yvonne Blackwood of Bessemer City; two brothers, Jerry Hannah and wife Faye of Hollywood, Fla., and David Hannah of Bessemer City; six grandchildren and a step-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan.  19, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Rev. Edward Carter officiating. The interment will be in Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by Murphy American Legion Post 96, Hayesville VFW Post 6812, and Hayesville American Legion Post 532. The 82nd Sustainment Brigade Honors Team will serve as pallbearers.
    The family will receive friends from noon-1:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Verlen Hannah to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org/donate.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    It is with broken hearts that the family of Misty Hope Nicholson announce her passing  Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2019, at age 19.
    Misty will be lovingly remembered by her parents, Landon and Summer (Brys) Annis of Blue Ridge, Ga., and Stevie Nicholson of Epworth, Ga.; sisters, Shay Nicholson, Jadeyn Annis, Kellie Annis; brother, Joseph Annis; grandparents, Howard and Carol Brys of Blue Ridge, Ga., the late Lawrence and Vivian Leola Nicholson of Epworth, Ga., and James and Evelyn Annis of Murphy.
    A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
    Misty was a gentle soul, a kindred spirit of light that pierced through our hearts and demanded your love and attention. Her eyes exuded love. Her laugh was infectious. She could show love without ever saying a word. Not everyone has those abilities.
    She inspired us all to try harder. We could look to her for an example of perseverance and inner strength.
    She showed us what it is to be strong, because strength is not just found in being the biggest, the toughest or the fastest. Strength is found in one who keeps on going, keeps trying, day after day long after others give up.
    She was our hero. She gave us all the gift of insight through her vulnerabilities and showed us things we might otherwise have missed.
    She taught us a new level of love we never knew existed.
    She gave us the gift of perspective, she reminded us that most of our problems are not really problems and to be grateful for what we have.
    I will see your smiles in my dreams, until the Lord sees it fit to call me home.
    She will forever remain etched in our hearts. She was truly our angel in waiting. Now resting peacefully in our Savior’s arms.
    You may send tributes to the Nicholson family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

    Annie Ruth Jones Payne passed away Sunday, Jan. 20, 2019, at Murphy Nursing & Rehab.
    She was of the Baptist faith.
    She was preceded in death by her husband, R.M. Payne of Andrews, on Jan. 30, 2004. She was also preceded by her parents, William Bill Alexander Jones and Winnie Faye Hall Jones of Andrews; sisters, Doris Sue Brown of Knoxville, Tenn., Betty Dockery of Murphy, Joyce Daryample of Murphy,  Helen Teague of Columbia, S.C.; brothers, Bill Jones of Murphy, Jack Jones of Acworth, Ga.
    She is survived by a daughter, Sherie Annette Jones Barnett and husband Jimmy of Murphy; one son, John Howard Payne and wife Debra of Franklin; one grandson, James Josha Barnett and wife Sara of Murphy; two great-granddaughters, Emily Madison Barnett and Shelby Grace Barnett of Murphy; one sister, Melba Morrow of Andrews; one brother, Harry Jones of Peachtree; also many nieces and nephews whom she loved also survive.
    Annie loved spending time with family and friends, reading, doing circle word puzzles, fishing, playing bingo and spoiling her grandchildren. She was always the first one to bake a cake or give of herself for any benefit for anyone in need.
    She was a member of Second Baptist Church in Andrews. She had retired from Coats America in Marble after 34 years of service. She had also worked at Brumbies in Murphy, Berkshire Hosiery Mill, Andrews, and Maw Woods Restaurant in Andrews.
    Annie was a regular donor of blood and received many gallon pins from the American Red Cross and was called upon many times to give Transfusions to accident victims at local hospitals.
    By her request no service will be planned.
    She requested that you spend time with your family and friends, tell those in your family you love them, or give to someone in need in her memory.
    In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Murphy Rehab & Nursing, Activity Department, C/O Amie Jones, 3990 E. U.S. 64 Alternate, Murphy, NC 28906.
    Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.
    Condolences can be made to the family at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

    Irene Martin, 87, of Blairsville, Ga., formerly of Murphy, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019, in Union County Nursing Home.
    She was a native of Cherokee County, where she lived most of her life until moving to Blairsville more than 18 years ago.
    She was a homemaker and member of New Martins Creek Baptist Church.
    She was the daughter of the late Jewell Sheridan and Ollie Elizabeth Chastain Martin.
    Surviving are two daughters, Brenda Lovett of Canton, Ga., and Jane Davenport of Blairsville, Ga.; three grandchildren, James Reese, Janie Farist and husband Shawn, and Jonathan Davenport and wife Rachel; and three great-grandchildren, Levi and Luke Farist, and Blane Davenport.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Rev. Brent Chatham officiating. The interment was in New Martins Creek Cemetery. Pallbearers were James Reese, Luke, Levi, and Shawn Farist, J.L. Davenport and Jerry Martin.
    The family received friends from noon-1:45 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, prior to the services.
    The family requests memorials be made in memory of Irene Martin to New Martins Creek Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Kimberly Wilson, 560 Wilson Road, Brasstown, NC 28902.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Verlen Hannah, 78, of Murphy, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019, in a Murphy hospital.
    Verlen was a native of Bessemer City, where he lived until age 21.
    He retired as a major after 23½ years with the United States Army, followed by 5½ years with the National Guard. During his military career, Verlen lived in Germany on two different occasions, Korea and Fort Gordon, Ga., near Augusta, before moving to Murphy in 1993.
    Verlen was of the Baptist faith.
    He was the son of the late Wenzlow Donald and Pearlee Weaver Hannah, and the husband of 57 years to Amanda Jane James Hannah, who died Nov.12, 2018. He also was preceded in death by a son, Richard Scott Hannah; three sisters, Betty Lou Mitchem, Yvonne Hannah Blackwood and Sonja Hannah; and two brothers, Grady and Donald Hannah.
    Surviving are a daughter, Susan Lee Hannah and husband Steven Goldberg of Evans, Ga.; two sons, Stephen Mark Hannah and wife Margaret of Apex and Jason Keith Hannah and wife Mitzi of Martinez, Ga.; sister, Janice Arrowood and husband Danny of Seneca, S.C.; two brothers, Jerry Hannah and wife Faye of Hollywood, Fla., and David Hannah and wife Diane of Bessemer City; six grandchildren and a step-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services were held 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Rev. Edward Carter officiating. The interment was in Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by Murphy American Legion Post 96, Hayesville VFW Post 6812, and Hayesville American Legion Post 532. The 82nd Sustainment Brigade Honors Team served as pallbearers.
    The family received friends from noon-1:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Verlen Hannah to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org/donate.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Bobby Joe Graves, 77, of Marble, passed away Sunday, Jan. 20, 2019, at Erlanger Medical Center in Chattanooga, Tenn.
    Mr. Graves was born March 2, 1941, in Cherokee County to the late Robert T. Graves and Elva Killian Graves.
    He was manager of Contel Telephone Co. for 23 years and owner of G&G Telephone Contractors until his retirement.
    He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Graves; brother, Don Graves; sisters, Charlsie Kephart, Minnice Dockery and Lenna Spivey.
    Survivors include sons, Keith (Lisa) Graves, Jeff (JoAnne) Graves and Brandon Graves; brothers, Kermit Graves, Jack Graves and Godfrey Graves; grandchildren, Krystle Miller, Tyler Anderson, Jonah Graves, Jared Graves, Danielle Graves and Michelle Graves.
    There will be a visitation of family and friends from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 23, at Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy.
    Arrangements have been entrusted to Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy.
    You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.