Jean Dell Dotson, 89, of Woodstock, Ga., and formerly of Murphy, passed away Sunday, July 21, 2019, at the Powder Springs Nursing and Rehab in Powder Springs, Ga.
    She was born in Cherokee County, and was the daughter of the late James and Willie Haygood Cook.
    Jean was a member of the National Honor Society and Macedonia Baptist Church. Her profession was a real estate agent.
    In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Walter Dotson; and brothers and sisters, Alden, Robert, Charles and James Cook, and Geneva Mills and Anita Pontwood.
    She is survived by one son, Stephen Dotson and wife Sara of Woodstock, Ga.; one daughter, Karen D. Doerrer and husband Greg of Ackron, Ohio; six grandchildren, Jennifer Goodman (Keith), Heather Hufstetler (Neil), Ashley Baggett, Jarad Doerrer (Jennifer), Jonathan Doerrer (Jennifer) and James Doerrer; and 12 great-grandchildren.
    Funeral Services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday,
July 25, at Macedonia Baptist Church. Charles Cook will conduct the service. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
    The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home in Murphy.
     You may send tributes to the Dotson family at townson-rose.com.
     Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

    Geraldine Gibson Lominac, 83, of Murphy, passed away Monday, July 22, 2019, at Stonehenge Assisted Living in Blairsville, Ga.
    Geraldine was born April 21, 1936, to the late Newton Gibson and Edith Anderson Gibson, fondly referred to as one of the “Gibson Girls.”
    She was the wife of the late Paul F. Lominac Jr., who passed away in 2005. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, John and Herbert Gibson; sister, Christine Stovall; and sister-in-law, Marie Whitlow.
    Geraldine was a 1954 graduate of Murphy High School and continued to have contact with several of her classmates who celebrated their 65th anniversary this year.
    She was a gifted seamstress, artist, gardener and jeweler with a smile to light up the room, having been blessed with charm and beauty, a former Burley Tobacco Queen. Her talents were shared with many friends and family.
    A lifetime member of Shady Grove Baptist Church, she sang in the choir, was active in WMU, and served as president of the cemetery committee organizing yard sales and fund raisers. She was also a member of the Andrews Garden Club.
    Her professional career included owning her own boutique in Copperhill, Tenn., Gerry’s Dress Shop and Andrews Jewelers, Andrews until her retirement in 1991.
    Surviving are her daughter and son-in-law, Paula and Barry Watson of Murphy; son and daughter-in-law, Tim and Shannon Curtis Lominac of Sylva; sisters, Kathleen McGuire of Blairsville, Ga., Madelyn (Curtis) Chambers of Atlanta, Ga., and Jane (Tom) Stiles of Hiwassee Dam; sisters-in-law, Helen Gibson, Nell Gibson, Mackie (Dale) Garland and Irene (Jim) Carnes; grandchildren, Emily Watson, Matthew (Kayla) Watson, Lauren (Skyler) Hubbard, and Cody and Caleb Lominac; great-grandchildren, Laylan and William Watson.
    Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, July 26, in Shady Grove Baptist Church with the Revs. Gerald Derreberry and Richard Mashburn officiating. The interment will be in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Matthew Watson, Cody and Caleb Lominac, Skyler Hubbard, Vaughn Gibson, Kurt Stiles and Jeff Chambers.
    The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, July 25, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, where the body will be until placed in the church 30 minutes prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Geraldine Gibson Lominac to Shady Grove Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Mrs. Lois Menasian, 6 Deweese St., Murphy, NC 28906.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Martha Anne “Scottie” Rogers Saltz, 84, of Hayesville, was welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Monday, July 22, 2019, and reunited with her late daughter, Terri Saltz, who passed away Nov. 13, 1983.
    She was a native and lifetime resident of the Tusquittee community in Hayesville, which she loved and cherished.
    Scottie was a career educator and devoted child advocate with Clay County Schools. Scottie was much more than simply a teacher to her students. She impacted many young lives with her kind, caring heart and generosity. She was affectionately known as “angel” to many students and colleagues.
    Scottie was renowned for her cooking and baking, and had virtually branded her “Scottie Cakes” and cornbread.
    She was a lifelong member of Truett Memorial First Baptist Church.
    Scottie was a nurturing caregiver to many friends and family. Her children and grandchildren were her heart and joy.
    She was the daughter of the late William Clay Rogers and Mabel Jones Rogers Padgett. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Teresa Ann Saltz; a sister, Marilou Ginn; and a son-in-law, Tommy Cheek.
    Surviving are her beloved husband of 68 years, James Russell Saltz Sr.; three daughters, Melissa Saltz Cheek of Hayesville, Cindi Saltz Simmons and husband Si of Webster, and Amy Saltz Brodhage and husband Mark of Arab, Ala.; a son, James Russell “Jim” Saltz Jr. of Hayesville; a brother, William J. “Bill” Rogers of Raleigh; five grandchildren, Jordan Leigh Cheek, SFC Thomas Lee Cheek II and wife Heather, Jackson Brett Simmons and wife,Nicole, Craig Forest Brodhage and Elizabeth Anne Brodhage; three great-grandchildren, Thomas Lee Cheek III, Taylor James Cheek and Hailee Marie Cheek; and several nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 27, at Truett Memorial First Baptist Church with the Rev. Johnny Foster officiating. The interment was in the Rogers Family Cemetery. Pallbearers wrte Si Simmons, Mark Brodhage, SFC Thomas Cheek, Jackson Simmons, Craig Brodhage, Wayne Rogers, Jeff Ginn and David Rogers.
    The family received friends from 1-2:45 p.m. Saturday, July 27, at Truett Memorial First Baptist Church prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Martha Anne “Scottie” Rogers Saltz to the Mabel Jones Rogers Padgett Memorial Prayer Garden at Truett Memorial First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 464, Hayesville, NC 28904.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Hayesville, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Geraldine Gibson Lominac, 83, of Murphy, passed away Monday, July 22, 2019, at Stonehenge Assisted Living in Blairsville, Ga.
    Geraldine was born April 21, 1936, to the late Newton Gibson and Edith Anderson Gibson, fondly referred to as one of the “Gibson Girls.”
    She was the wife of the late Paul F. Lominac Jr., who passed away in 2005. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, John and Herbert Gibson; sister, Christine Stovall; and sister-in-law, Marie Whitlow.
    Geraldine was a 1954 graduate of Murphy High School and continued to have contact with several of her classmates who celebrated their 65th anniversary this year.
    She was a gifted seamstress, artist, gardener and jeweler with a smile to light up the room, having been blessed with charm and beauty, a former Burley Tobacco Queen. Her talents were shared with many friends and family.
    A lifetime member of Shady Grove Baptist Church, she sang in the choir, was active in WMU and served as president of the cemetery committee, organizing yard sales and fundraisers. She was also a member of the Andrews Garden Club.
    Her professional career included owning her own boutique in Copperhill, Tenn., Gerry’s Dress Shop and Andrews Jewelers in Andrews until her retirement in 1991.
    Surviving are her daughter and son-in-law, Paula and Barry Watson of Murphy; son and daughter-in-law, Tim and Shannon Curtis Lominac of Sylva; sisters, Kathleen McGuire of Blairsville, Ga., Madelyn (Curtis) Chambers of Atlanta, Ga., and Jane (Tom) Stiles of Hiwassee Dam; sisters-in-law, Helen Gibson, Nell Gibson, Mackie (Dale) Garland and Irene (Jim) Carnes; grandchildren, Emily Watson, Matthew (Kayla) Watson, Lauren (Skyler) Hubbard, and Cody and Caleb Lominac; great-grandchildren, Laylan and William Watson.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, July 26, in Shady Grove Baptist Church with the Revs. Gerald Derreberry and Richard Mashburn officiating. The interment was in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Matthew Watson, Cody and Caleb Lominac, Skyler Hubbard, Vaughn Gibson, Kurt Stiles and Jeff Chambers.
    The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, July 25, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, where the body was until placed in the church 30 minutes prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Geraldine Gibson Lominac to Shady Grove Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Mrs. Lois Menasian, 6 Deweese St., Murphy, NC 28906.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Sonny Grayson Freeman, 79, of Blue Ridge Highway in Blairsville, Ga., passed away Monday, July 22, 2019, at his home following a brief illness.
    Mr. Freeman was born June 3, 1940, in Union County, Ga., the son of the late John Henry Freeman and Gladys Rebecca Payne Freeman.
    He was a native and lifelong resident of Union County.
    Sonny taught construction at the Union County High School Vocational for several years. He was a building contractor for many years.
    Sonny was a member of Alleghany Masonic Lodge No. 114 F&AM and Appalachian Shrine Club.
    He was a loving and caring husband, father and brother.
    Sonny was a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.
    He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Sonja Jo Freeman on May 7, 2013; and a brother, Gary Freeman.
    Surviving Mr. Freeman are his loving wife and best friend of 59 years, Joyce Jones Freeman of Blairsville; one son and daughter-in-law, Russell and Sharon Freeman of Murphy; two brothers and sisters-in-law, James and Susan Freeman and Larry and Marsha Freeman, and one sister and brother-in law, Brenda and James Reece, all of Marietta, Ga.; and several nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends also survive.
    Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, from Mountain View Chapel with the Rev. Mark Alexander officiating. The following gentleman served as pallbearers, Buddy Legg, Bill Parker, W.H. Hood, Logan Henderson, Bill Mink and Carlton Sparks. Serving as honorary pallbearer was Jerry Hemphill.
    Interment followed in Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, where he will rest next his beloved daughter, Sonja.
    The family met with friends at the funeral home from noon-3 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, prior to the services.
    Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville was in charge of the arrangements.
    You may sign the family guest book and send condolences online at mountainviewfuneralhome.com.

    Mary Lou Hummingbird, 75, of Marble, passed away Thursday July 25, 2019, at her home.
    She was a native of Tahlequah, Okla., and the daughter of the late Sam and Mary Allen Wolford Hawk.
    Mary had been a CNA for Stillwell Nursing Home and worked for the Cherokee Harrah’s Casino in Cherokee for 10 years. She enjoyed being a homemaker and quilting.
    She is survived by her husband, James Hummingbird; two sons, Johnny Livers and Jackie Livers; one daughter, Glenna Stockton; two brothers, Jimmy Hawk and Carl Hawk; three sisters, Louise Bird, Rebecca Morton and Virginia Hawk; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
    A graveside service will be held at the Tyler Springs Cemetery in Stillwell, Okla., at a later date. 
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

    Jerry Ford Colbert, 72, of Murphy, passed away Saturday, July 20, 2019, at Erlanger Medical Center in Chattanooga, Tenn.
    He was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, and the son of the late Vardy and Louise Gaston Colbert.
    Jerry was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He attended Mount Zion Baptist Church.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by eight brothers and sisters.
    He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Judy Colbert; four daughters, Evelyn Carr and husband Ronnie, Jeryl Lynn Holbrook and husband Harold Jr., Celnah Colbert and Michael D. Simpson, and Dawn Colbert and Robert Earl McCullough III; two sisters, Hazel Bowman and Mary Hall; eight grandchildren, Kagney Colbert-Carr and Chelsey Martin of Burlington, Eric Colbert-Carr and wife Autumn of Blairsville, Ga., Kennedy Colbert-Carr of Murphy, Keenan Colbert, Kelsey Simpson and Jasmine Simpson, all of Lawrenceville, Ga., Jayron McCullough of Chattanooga, Tenn., Jairus McCullough of Murphy and Cody Colbert-Carr of Murphy; and seven great-grandchildren.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 27, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy. The Revs. John Paul Webb and Louis Grant, and Elder Thelena Turner officiated. Music was provided by Farrah Eller.
    Burial was in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens with military graveside rites being conducted by the American Legion Post No. 96 Murphy, American Legion Post 532 Hayesville, VFW Post 6812, Hayesville, and the Marine Corps League in Marble. Pallbearers were Zeke Johnson, Kevin Nicely, Mark Pickens, Darrell Sudderth, Jack Jackson, Eddie Eller, Chris Brown and John Allen.
    The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday, July 26, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home.
    You may send tributes to the Colbert family at townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

    Paul David Parsons, 61, of the Nantahala community, passed away from natural causes Thursday, July 25, 2019, at his residence.
    He was the son of Reginald and Jean Parsons.
    Paul enjoyed hunting, fishing and golfing. He was of the Baptist faith and a member of South Tampa Fellowship Church.
    In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife, Marianne Parsons; daughters, Caroline and Miranda Parsons; and his beloved mountain dog, Wobbegong.
    A memorial service will be held at a later date.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home in charge of all arrangements.

    Jessie Brown, 76, of Marble, passed away Sunday, July 21, 2019, at her residence surrounded by family and friends.
    She was born in Towns County, Ga., to the late Ed Dills and Elizabeth “Lizzie” Garrett Dills Newton.
    Jessie fought a long battle but she always kept the faith no matter what problem or situation she was facing. She always had a smile on her face and was a blessing to all who knew her. Upon first meeting Jessie, her sweet loving spirit was obvious.
    When others were worried she would often say, “You have to keep looking up.”
    Jessie always put others before herself. She was a devoted wife, mother and nana to her grandchildren, whom she loved so very much.
    Jessie retired from Levi Strauss. She was an active member of Tomotla Baptist Church. The church was a big part of her life.
    In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her step-dad, Johnny Newton; one son, Ronny Brown; two brothers, Gerald and E.J.; four sisters, Geneva, Jeanette, Eva and Ruby; and one granddaughter, Leah Brown.
    She is survived by her husband, Allen Brown; one son, Randy Brown and wife Jimmie, who was more like a daughter; one daughter, Karen Hogsed; one brother, Lamar Newton and wife Susie; and grandchildren, Colby, Jacob, Katie, Isaac and Jessie.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 25, at Tomotla Baptist Church. Pastor Harold Stiles officiated. Burial was in Tomotla Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were Colby, Jacob, Isaac and Robert Brown, Billy Ray Palmer, Phil Craig and Mike Welch. Honorary pallbearers were Sam Brown, Lloyd Clark and Dan Brown.
    The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, at Tomotla Baptist Church.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

    Nathan Dean Ausburn, 14, of Murphy, passed away Tuesday, July 23, 2019, at his home.
    He was the son of Patrick Dean Ausburn and Patricia Marie Hall Ausburn.
    He was a student at Hiwassee Dam High School. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed many adventures.
    Nathan was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Cynthia Diane Vickery.
    In addition to his parents, Nathan is survived by three brothers, Joseph Hall of Plant City, Fla., Juan Colunga Jr. of Irving, Texas, and Jacob Dean Ausburn of the home; paternal grandparents, Tommy and Abel Holland of Murphy; and, baby niece, Rayann Kashmir Colunga.
    The family will have a private service at a later date.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

    Daniel Rogers, 69, of Murphy, passed away Sunday, Aug. 4, 2019.
    He was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, and the son of the late Roy and Medley Rogers.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, June Flowers and Jane Hogsed.
    He is survived by three brothers, Johnny, Sammy and Jimmy Rogers; and two sisters, Shirley Whitaker and Judy Kephart.
    No services are planned at this time.
    You may send tributes to the Rogers family at townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

    Billy Edward Mills, 90, of Murphy, passed away Friday, Aug. 2, 2019, at his residence.
    He was a native and lifetime resident of Murphy.
    Ed was a World War II veteran in the United States Navy, serving on the USS Randolph. He then re-enlisted with the Air Force and was also a Korean War veteran.
    Ed worked as a cutting room supervisor with several local textile manufacturing companies. He later worked as a maintenance foreman with the North Carolina Department of Transportation, retiring in 1994.
    Ed was a member of Grandview Baptist Church.
    He enjoyed working on his farm, woodworking, fishing and reading. Ed loved his family.
    He was the son of the late Maynard Edward and Lula Hall Mills, and husband of the late Irene Jones Mills, who died June 18, 2003. He was also preceded in death by three sisters, Lula Bell Ladig, Tommie Revis and Jean Dockery; a brother, Clyde Mills; and a son-in-law, Johnny Rowland.
    Surviving are a daughter, Betty Jean “B.J.” Mills Thompson of Murphy; a son, Richard E. Mills and wife Beckie of Hazel Green, Ala.; a sister, Mary M. Cousins of Sarasota, Fla.; a brother, Maynard Jack Mills and wife Frances of Oklahoma City, Okla.; six grandchildren, Brandon Mills and wife Hollie of Fayetteville, Tenn., Jessica Hood and husband John of Raleigh, Erica Sickler and husband Billy of Athens, Ala., Stephanie Godfrey and husband Ross of Toney, Ala., Chris Thompson of Murphy, Michael Thompson and wife Elizabeth of Titusville, Fla.; 10 great-grandchildren and another great-granddaughter any day; and many nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Rev. Steve West officiating. The interment will be in Hanging Dog Baptist Church Cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by the Murphy American Legion Post 96, Hayesville VFW Post 6812 and Hayesville American Legion Post 532. Pallbearers will be Brandon Mills,
Billy Sickler, Justin Mills, Chris Thompson and John Hood.
    The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Billy Edward Mills to Murphy American Legion Post 96, P.O. Box 712, Murphy, NC 28906; or Friends of Harshaw Chapel, c/o Murphy First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 86, Murphy, NC 28906.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Troice Ledford, 42, of Andrews, passed away Friday, Aug. 2, 2019.
    He lived in Andrews most of his life. Troice worked construction as a welder and directional driller.
    He attended Andrews United Methodist Church.
    He loved riding his Harley Davidson and enjoyed spending time on the lake in the boat with his children. He was always teaching them how to fix things around the house. Troice was a loving father and husband, and his kids were his world.
    He was the son of Janie Ledford of Dawsonville, Ga., and the late Bryan Chastain. Troice was adopted and raised by Belle Brown of Andrews.
    Surviving, in addition to his mother and adoptive mother, are his wife and high school sweetheart, whom he married in 2015, Alaina Ledford; two daughters, Ethne Ledford and Electa Ledford, both of the home; four sons, Lochlainn Troice Ledford of the home, Dylan Ledford of Andrews, Dalton Bath of Boone and Blake Huskins of Andrews; four brothers, Jerry Fricks of Dawsonville, Ga., Willie Emert and Doug Emert, both of Maryville, Tenn., and Ernie Emert of Florida; father- and mother-in-law, Ricky and Kandy Barnard; and special aunt, Peggy Yon; loving family members from Georgia; and many aunts, uncles and cousins from the Birchfield family, who loved him like one of their own.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 5, in Andrews United Methodist Church with the Rev. Thomas Jolly and the Rev. Dr. Mary Brown officiating. The interment was in Valleytown Cemetery. Pallbearers were Shane Smith, Kenny Welch, Tim Adams, Jeff Huls, Mike Taylor and Scott Harrelson.
    The family received friends from noon-1:45 p.m. Monday, Aug. 5, at Andrews United Methodist Church prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Troice Ledford to United Community Bank College Fund for Lochlainn Troice Ledford, P.O. Box 608, Andrews, NC 28901.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Andrews, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Clyde Boyd Dockery, 75, of Andrews, passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2019, at Valley View Care Center.
    He was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, and the son of the late Hill and Ester Dockery.
    Clyde worked for Gibson Furniture. He loved talking, dirt track racing, water skiing, mowing his grass and camping.
    Clyde was a member of Red Marble Baptist Church.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers, Kendall, James, Chuck and Ronald Dockery; and one sister, Edna Cross.
    He is survived by one son, Scott Dockery of Andrews; two daughters, Missy Little and husband Kit of the Ranger community, and April Massey and husband Shawn of Marble; two brothers, Carroll and Jerry Dean Dockery; one sister, Mary Mehaffey; and 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
    Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, at Townson-Rose Chapel in Andrews. The Revs. Mickey Stewart and Tim Dockery officiated. Burial was in the Red Marble Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were Bobby Dockery, Darrell Dockery, Shawn Massey, Kit Little, Kendall Young, Aaron Young and Colby Little.
    The family received friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, at Townson-Rose Chapel in Andrews.
    You may send tributes to the Dockery family at townso-rose.com.
     Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

    Betty Jean Hays, 77, of Murphy, passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2019.
    She was born May 17, 1942, in Clay County to the late Clayborn and Ollie Wilson Ashe. Betty was a LPN.
    In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Hays; one son, Christopher Hays; and two brothers and one sister.
    She is survived by her daughter, Aretha Hays of Murphy, and one grandson, Kodi Hays.
    A memorial service will be held at a later date.
     You may send tributes to the Hays family at townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

    Cecil Carl Derreberry, 97, of Andrews, passed away peacefully Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019, at his residence.
    Carl was born Oct. 31, 1921, to Napoleon (Poley) and Betty Curtis Derreberry.  
    He was a native and lifetime resident of Cherokee County.  Carl was a loving and caring husband, father, son and brother.
    Carl was a carpenter by trade and loved to build with his hands. He also loved to garden and share his produce with friends and neighbors.
    He was a lifetime member and deacon of Valley River Baptist Church and a veteran of World War II, serving in the United States Army.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Grace Luther Derreberry, who died May 14, 2016; infant daughter, Glenda Lou; grandson, Clark Earwood, son-in-law, Ron Hicks; four brothers, Clyde, Claude, Ward and Hoyle Derreberry; and six sisters, Ruby Adams, Bonnie Barker, Mae Phillips, Marie West, Maggie Derreberry and Bettie Sue Love Parker.
    He is survived by three daughters, Linda Hedrick and husband Jerry of Rutherford College, Vickie Hicks of Andrews, and Shirley Owenby and husband Dick of Dillon, Mont.; grandson, David Owenby and wife Kelley of Erie, Colo.; brother, Austin Derreberry and wife Dot of Andrews; and sister, Joyce Foster of Advance. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, and a special caregiver, Angie Payne.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Valley River Baptist Church with the Revs. Roy Phillips and Roger Derreberry officiating. Music was provided by Tony Pace and Angie Payne.
    The interment was in the church cemetery with military graveside rites provided by Murphy American Legion Post 96, Hayesville VFW Post 6812, and Hayesville American Legion Post 532. Pallbearers were Danny Derreberry, Steve Adams, Jimmy Morgan, James Young, Cecil Warren, Eddie and Matthew Wood.  Honorary pallbearers were David Williams, Bill Phillips and Alvin Gunnels.
    The family received friends from noon-1:45 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Valley River Baptist Church prior to the service.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requested memorials be made in memory of Cecil Carl Derreberry to Valley River Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Pearl Warren, P.O. Box 1189, Andrews, NC 28901; or Gideons International, P.O. Box 164, Murphy, NC.  28906.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Andrews, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register was available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    James Edward “Ed” Cloud Jr., 60, of Murphy, passed away Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019, at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was a native of Sikeston, Mo., but lived most of his life in New Orleans, La., before moving to Murphy in 2005.
    Ed was in the United States Navy, serving as Lee Helmsman on the USS Nimitz on her maiden voyage.
    Ed was currently working at Harrah’s Valley River Casino as a table games dealer. He had worked for many years as a disc jockey with WCVP and WCNG, and disc jockeyed for many weddings and events.
    He was the son of Jean Glass Cloud and the late James Edward Cloud Sr. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Roger Alan Cloud.
    Surviving, in addition to his mother, are his loving wife of 27 years, Terri Hill Cloud; a daughter, Denae Cloud and fiance, Bryan Meadows of Cullowhee; a son, Spencer Cloud and fiancee Hailey Hollifield of Claremont; a sister, Debi Witt and husband Larry of Harrisburg, Ark.; and a nephew, Jeremy Witt.
    The family received friends from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
    Military graveside rites followed at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, provided by Murphy American Legion Post 96, Hayesville VFW Post 6812 and Hayesville American Legion Post 532.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Kendall Richard Adams, 94, of Gastonia, passed away Tuesday, July 30, 2019.
    He was born Dec. 16. 1924, in Cherokee County to the late Frank and Mabel Adams.
    Kendall retired from the United States Air Force. He served during World War II. He co-founded VFW Chapter 7620 and was past adjutant from 1985-86. Kendall was an active DAV member.
    He volunteered his time to many organizations. Kendall was very active in politics and supporting campaigns.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Vincent, Edwin, Jerry, Leon, Bobby, Billy and Harry Adams.
    He is survived by his wife, Marie Josephine Pendergrass Adams; one son, Kendall Adams Jr. and wife Melinda of Gastonia; one daughter, Stacey Gibby and husband Lennox of Gastonia; one brother, Ray Adams and wife Imogene of Andrews; seven grandchildren, Wesley Gibby and wife Lauren, Jennifer Grant and husband Mike, Amanda Britt, Jessica Adams, Dana Adams, Crystal Drawdy and Kim Laye; and 12 great-grandchildren.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 5, at Townson-Rose Chapel in Andrews. The Rev. Jerry Tatham officiated. Burial was in Moss Cemetery, with military graveside rites conducted by American Legion Post 96 Murphy, American Legion Post 532 Hayesville, VFW Post 6812, Hayesville, and the Marine Corps League, Marble.
    The family received friends from noon-2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 5, at Townson-Rose Chapel in Andrews.
    In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 6221 Shallowford Road No. 102, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
    You may send tributes to the Adams family at townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

    Rev. Harry Hawk, 85, of Andrews, passed away Monday, Aug. 5, 2019, in an Andrews care facility.
    Harry was a native of Cherokee County, where he lived most of his life.
    He was a Korean War era veteran, serving in the United States Navy.
    Harry earned bachelor’s degrees from Gardner Webb University and Mars Hill University. He also earned a Master of Divinity from Emory University in Atlanta, Ga.
    Rev. Hawk served 35 years in ministry, pastoring 13 appointments/churches in the Western North Carolina Conference. Following retirement, he served as an interim pastor.
    Harry was a member of Andrews United Methodist Church. Harry sang bass and played the harmonica.
    He also enjoyed woodcarving and fishing, and he was a good cook. Harry had a special penchant for storytelling and loved spending time with family and friends.
    He was the son of the late Willard Mitchell and Sarah Blanche Bradley Hawk. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Sandra Gail Hawk Rech; and four sisters and two brothers.
    Surviving are his wife of 63 years, Lavenia Forbes Hawk; two daughters, Diane Williamson and husband Ricky of Canton, and Debra Hawk Esposito of Goldston; a son, Joseph Harry Hawk Jr. and wife Wendy of Lenoir; a son-in-law, Philip Rech and wife Wanda of Seneca, S.C.; a brother, Dan Hawk of Andrews; nine grandchildren and four bonus grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
    A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at Andrews United Methodist Church with military honors provided by the Hayesville VFW Post 6812, Hayesville American Legion Post 532 and Murphy American Legion Post 96. The Rev. Thomas Jolly will officiate. The inurnment will be in Valleytown Cemetery.
    The family will receive friends from noon-1:45 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at Andrews United Methodist Church prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of the Rev. Harry Hawk to Andrews United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1310, Andrews, NC 28901.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Andrews, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Carmoleta Pearl Holtzclaw, 87, passed away Monday, Aug. 5, 2019, in Decatur, Ind.  
    She was born Oct. 27, 1931, in Murphy to the late Lenice and Verlin (Burl) Poteet.
    She was employed by the Georgia Department of Revenue for 37 years as a division director for the income tax division.
    Carmoleta greatly enjoyed gardening. As a hobby, she crocheted hats, blankets, booties and afghans, and donated them to the local maternity resource center.  Her favorite book to read was the Bible, and she read it five times.
    Carmoleta was a loving mama, grandma, great-grandma and friend.  
    Carmoleta was preceded in death by her husband, Frank W. Holtzclaw Sr.; brother, Vernon Poteet; two sisters, Lona Cordell and Lucille McDonald; and son-in-law, Jack Curry.
    She is survived by her daughters, Betty Joe Curry of Fayetteville, Ga., and Laura “Renee” (Allan) Hayes of Sharpsburg, Ga.; her sons, Frank “Frankie” (Kay) Holtzclaw Jr. of Forest Park, Ga., Roger (Michele) Holtzclaw of Griffin, Ga.,  and Jeffrey “Jeff” (Loide) Holtzclaw Sr. of Decatur, Ind.; her sister, Maggie Abernathy of Murphy; eight grandchildren, Jennifer Cline, Laura Holcombe, Leslie Patterson, Jeffrey “J.J.” Holtzclaw Jr., Frank “William” Holtzclaw III, Lacey Petry, Chad Holtzclaw and Kathryn Holtzclaw; 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.  
    The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9, in the Chapel of Mowell Funeral Home, Fayetteville, with Pastor Jonathan Hannah. Interment will be at Camp Memorial Park, Fayetteville, following the service.
    The family will receive friends from noon-2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
    Mowell Funeral Home & Cremation Service – www.mowells.com.