Leo Michael Goergen, 92, of Blairsville, Ga., passed away peacefully Monday Aug. 5, 2019, in Union General Hospital following a brief battle with cancer.
    Mr. Goergen was born July 6, 1927, in Buffalo, N.Y., the son of the late John J. Goergen and Lucille M. Koch Goergen.
    Leo was a loving father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather. He was a very talented painter.
    Leo was a devout Christian of the Catholic faith and a member of St. William Catholic Church in Murphy.
    He was preceded in death by his wife, Stephany Zubrzycki Goergen in 2006; his siblings, John, Catherine, Elizabeth, Raymond, Paul (his twin), Rita and Frances.
    Surviving Mr. Goergen are his children and their spouses, David and XianLan Goergen of Largo, Fla., Kenneth and Helene Goergen of Seminole, Fla., Stephen Goergen of Blairsville, Thomas and Lavada Goergen of Box Elder, S.D., Barbara Goergen of Blairsville, Cindy and Bob Spaulding of Blairsville; one brother, Rev. David Goergen; eight grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends also survive.
    Memorial services will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13, at Mountain View Funeral Home Chapel in Blairsville, Ga., with Deacon Carl Hubbell officiating followed by a Mass at 1 p.m. Tuesday at St. William Catholic Church in Murphy with Father Alejandro Ayala officiating.
    The family will meet with friends following the services.
    In lieu of flowers if you wish, the family requests donations may be made to Food for the Poor.org or to Healing Hands Community Clinic in Blairsville, Ga., in Mr. Goergen’s memory.
    Interment will follow in St. William’s Columbarium, where he will rest next to his beloved wife, Stephany.
    Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville is in charge of arrangements.
    You may sign the family guest book and send condolences online at mountainviewfuneralhome.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 was held at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9, in the Chapel of Mowell Funeral Home, Fayetteville, with Pastor Jonathan Hannah. Interment was at Camp Memorial Park, Fayetteville, following the service.
    The family received friends from noon-2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
    Mowell Funeral Home & Cremation Service – www.mowells.com.

    Donald Leon Sosebee, 76, of Marble, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2019.
    He was born Tuesday, July 27, 1943, to the late Elmer and Elnora Powell Sosebee, in Young Harris, Ga.
    Donald enjoyed playing horseshoes and Rook, and spending time with family.
    He goes on to be with his wife, Amanda Lou Chastain Sosebee, as well as his parents and his brother, Jerry Sosebee.
    Donald will be remembered by all who knew him, but especially missed by his children, Leon (Tina) Sosebee, Leroy Sosebee and Larry (Ramona) Sosebee; siblings, Jean Thomas, Bill (Geraldine) Sosebee, Fred (Carolyn) Sosebee, Edith (Earl) Hunter and George (Wanda) Sosebee, Alan Sosebee, Watson (Opal) Stevens; grandchildren, Chelsea (Samuel) Ingram, Cameron Sosebee, Cody Sosebee, Chandler Sosebee, Andrew (Halee) Sosebee and Whitney Sosebee; and great-grandchildren, Taylah Ingram and Anslee Sosebee.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, from New Martins Creek Baptist Church with the Revs. Ralph Barnard, Calvin Murphy, Paul Ray Morgan and Aud Brown officiating. Pallbearers were Troy Lee Phillips, Larry Crisp, Bruce Chastain, Derwin Chastain, Wendell Chastain and Timmy Chastain.
    The family received guests from noon-2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at the church.
    Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy was honored to be serving the family.

    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 degree 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 was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at Andrews United Methodist Church with military honors provided by Hayesville VFW Post 6812, Hayesville American Legion Post 532 and Murphy American Legion Post 96. The Rev. Thomas Jolly will officiate. Inurnment was in Valleytown Cemetery.
    The family received 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, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Leo Michael Goergen, 92, of Blairsville, Ga., passed away peacefully Monday Aug. 5, 2019, in Union General Hospital following a brief battle with cancer.
    Mr. Goergen was born July 6, 1927, in Buffalo, N.Y., the son of the late John J. Goergen and Lucille M. Koch Goergen.
    Leo was a loving father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather. He was a very talented painter.
    Leo was a devout Christian of the Catholic faith and a member of St. William Catholic Church in Murphy.
    He was preceded in death by his wife, Stephany Zubrzycki Goergen in 2006; his siblings, John, Catherine, Elizabeth, Raymond, Paul (his twin), Rita and Frances.
    Surviving Mr. Goergen are his children and their spouses, David and XianLan Goergen of Largo, Fla., Kenneth and Helene Goergen of Seminole, Fla., Stephen Goergen of Blairsville, Thomas and Lavada Goergen of Box Elder, S.D., Barbara Goergen of Blairsville, Cindy and Bob Spaulding of Blairsville; one brother, the Rev. David Goergen; eight grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends also survive.
    Memorial services were held 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13, at Mountain View Funeral Home Chapel in Blairsville, Ga., with Deacon Carl Hubbell officiating followed by a Mass at 1 p.m. Tuesday at St. William Catholic Church in Murphy with Father Alejandro Ayala officiating.  The family met with friends following the services.
    In lieu of flowers if you wish, the family requests donations may be made to Food for the Poor.org or to Healing Hands Community Clinic in Blairsville, Ga., in Mr. Goergen’s memory.
    Interment followed in St. William’s Columbarium, where he will rest next to his beloved wife, Stephany.
    Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville was in charge of arrangements.
    You may sign the family guest book and send condolences online at mountainviewfuneralhome.com.

    Leon Tatham, 71, of Murphy, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019.
    He was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, and the son of the late Charles and Daisy Grant Tatham.
    Leon was a U.S. Navy veteran and served one tour in Vietnam. He retired from active duty with the North Carolina National Guard 210th Military Police in 2008. He continued his involvement with military services through membership in the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve receiving numerous awards for his volunteer services. He was an active member of the Military Officers Association of America.
    Leon received his bachelor’s degree in special education from Western Carolina University. As an advocate for people with developmental disabilities, he served as chairman of the Board of Industrial Opportunities Inc. from 1992-2001.
    He began his career at Tri-County Community College serving in veterans’ affairs and later as dean of instruction. He received his master’s degree in human resources management from Clemson University.
    He worked for Outboard Marine Corporation as a human resources manager. Leon was dedicated to the improvement of his community and education of its citizens. He was a member of multiple civic organizations and received the Governer’s Award for Volunteer Services in 1995 and 1999.
    He is survived by his wife, Treacy Tatham; one son, Lee Tatham; three stepsons; Sam Duncan and wife Karen; Jim Duncan and wife Andria; and Michael Duncan; one daughter, Leslie Wheeler and husband Allen; two brothers, Gary Tatham and wife Margaret, and Dickey Tatham and wife Tutti; four grandchildren, three nephews and one niece.
    Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy. The Rev. Jerry Tatham officiated. Burial was in the Greenlawn Memorial
Gardens with military graveside rites conducted by the U.S. Army Fort Bragg. Pallbearers were the U.S. Army Fort Bragg, Jim Duncan, Sam Duncan, Michael Duncan, Seth Wheeler, Hayden Duncan and Harrison Duncan. Honorary pallbearers were Lynn Roper and Dana Jones.
    The family received friends from 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home.
    You may send tributes to the Tatham family at townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

    Daniel Monroe Wilson, 68, of Brasstown, passed away Sunday, Aug. 18, 2019, in a Murphy care facility.
    He was born Aug. 5, 1951. The first of four children of the late Eleanor Lambert Wilson and Herman Monroe Wilson, Danny lived most of his adult life on the farm in Brasstown. With his parents, he was a founding member of Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Hayesville.
    Danny loved to cook. He worked at various restaurants in the area before beginning a 25-year career in the dietary department at Murphy Medical Center, where he is remembered for “going way beyond his duties to do extra special things for the employees” and for the patients.
    He was also known for his love of gardening. Working as the “chief mower” at John C. Campbell Folk School from 2002-11, his dedication and hard work were evident in the beauty of the campus.  
    Everyone knew Danny as he walked everywhere he went. He appreciated everyone who gave him rides.
    Danny was known as the perennial judge for the annual “Possum Drop” at Clay’s Corner in Brasstown after his win as the Possum Queen of 2000. An avid folk dancer, Danny spent many Friday evenings at the folk school in his “red dancing shoes,” often helping others learn the steps.
    Another hobby he loved was bowling with his friends, and he participated in league tournaments. He bowled a perfect game in 1995.   
    Danny will be remembered for the love and kindness that he showed others, his pride and appreciation for his friends, and an ability to find joy and meaning in life, which allowed him to rise above any obstacle. He was loved by everyone.
    He is survived by his three siblings, Eleanor Anne Wilson Harper of Timonium, Md., John Herman Wilson of Danville, Ky., and Florence Wilson Atwood of Pittsburgh, Pa.; six nieces and nephews, Ben, Catherine, James, Anne, Sarah and David.
    A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26, in Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd with the Rev. Bill Breedlove officiating.
    The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Daniel Monroe Wilson to John C. Campbell Folk School, Danny Wilson Memorial Dance Scholarship, One Folk School Road, Brasstown, NC 28902; or The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Garden Fund, P.O. Box 677, Hayesville, NC 28904.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Patricia Wright Patterson, 73, of Murphy, passed away Friday, Aug. 16, 2019, surrounded by family at her daughter’s home in Cartersville, Ga.
    She was a native of Cherokee County and lived in Marietta, Ga., Palmdale, Calif., and Iran before re-turning to Hiwassee Dam in 1996.
    She worked as an operator for Southern Bell, a sales associate at Southern Linen and for Foster’s Doughnuts in Palmdale. Her favorite job was being a homemaker to her family.
    She was a devoted member of Murphy Bible Church. Pat loved spending time at church and studying the Bible. Pat passed on her skills and love of making biscuits to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
    She had a talent for making everyone feel as if they were her favorite.
    She was the daughter of the late Calvin Elmo and Versie Helton Wright, and wife of the late Robert M. Patterson, who died March 22, 2019. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Michael Wright; and a sister-in-law, Judy Allen Wright.
    Surviving are two daughters, Pamela Timbs and husband Jeff of Cartersville, Ga., and Penny Garrison and husband Billy of Winston, Ga.; a son, Paul Patterson of Murphy; a brother, Rex Wright and wife Charlotte of Murphy; nine grandchildren, Heather, Ryan, Haleigh, Breanna, Paul, Pierce, Zachary, Caleb and Caitlyn; and seven great-grandchildren, Savannah, Eli, Sophia, Ava, Susana, Malachi and Catalina. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, at Friendship Baptist Church with the Revs. Steve Ware and Keith Allison officiating. The interment will be in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Darryl Wright, Adam Wright, Roger Campbell, Mark Patterson, Randy Patterson and Thomas Wright.  Honorary pallbearers will be Donnie Wright, Joey Reid and Harold Helton.
    The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, where the body will be until placed in the church 30 minutes prior to the services.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Franklin Martin, 86, of Murphy, passed away Sunday, Aug. 18, 2019, at his residence.  
    He was a native of Murphy, but had lived in Beloit, Ohio. He had worked for General Motors for 35 years as a dye maker until his retirement in 1991 and then returned to Murphy.  
    Franklin was a Korean War veteran serving in the United States Army.
    He was a member and deacon of Ogreeta Baptist Church and enjoyed gardening.  
    He was the son of the late Fred and Elsie Graves Martin. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Dollie Smart, and two brothers, Devero and Clyde Martin.
    Surviving are his wife of 48 years, Alice Worley Martin of Murphy; a son David Martin of Flowery Branch, Georgia; a sister, Nancy Helms of Murphy; two brothers, Fred Martin Jr. and wife Ollie of Brasstown and George Martin and wife Sandy of Manchester, Tenn. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20, at the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Revs. Eddie Duckworth and Eddie Cook officiating. The interment was in Grape Creek Baptist 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 Steve, Keith and Jeff Martin, Paul Worley, Doug Radford, and Tom and Aaron Kephart. Honorary pallbearers were Floyd Worley and Larry Davis.
    The family received friends from 2-2:50 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, prior to the service.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Franklin Martin to: Gideons International, P.O. Box 164, Murphy, NC 28906 or to: Parkinson’s Foundation, 601 E. 5th St., Suite 140, Charlotte, NC 28202.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Kendall Barnett, 88, of Marble, passed away Thursday, Aug. 15, 2019.
    He was native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, and the son of the late Aurther and Nettie Queen Barnett.
    Kendall was a U.S. Army veteran, serving in the Korean War.
    He enjoyed hunting, fishing and farming.
    Kendall attended Vengeance Creek Baptist Church.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death three brothers, Joe, Ralph and Roy Barnett; and four sisters, Lillie Mae Wilson, Ellen Palmer, Bernice Huskins and Kate McClure.
    He is survived by his wife, Sarai Barnett; one son, Stanley Barnett and wife Michele; four daughters, Inas Couey and husband Scott, April Roberson and husband Jeff, Hope Garrett and husband Harold, and Vandia Sneed and husband Nathan; six grandchildren, Brandi, Justin, Kent, Jacob, Caity, Issac and two deceased grandchildren; two great-grandchildren, Riley and Colby; and several nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel. The Revs. Ethan Story and Jim Pressley officiated. Music was provided by Vengeance Creek Baptist Church Choir. Burial was in Canyon Road Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were be Rex, Blaine, Jimmy and Josh Barnett, Danny Wilson and Bucky Kelly. Honorary pallbearers were Jan Barnett, Buddy Wilson and Marvin Guffey.
    The family received friends from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home.
    You may send tributes to the Barnett family at townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

    Richard “Turbo/Mean Gene” Pickens, 72, of Murphy, passed away Monday, Aug. 19, 2019, at his residence.
    Richard was known in Indiana as Mean Gene, but changed to Turbo when he returned to Murphy. He was a native of Murphy and a graduate of Murphy High School.
    He was a Vietnam War veteran, serving in the United States Army.
    He lived in Gary, Ind., and worked for Inland Steel for many years before returning to Murphy in 1985.
    Richard had a very inventive mind and was known for building “The Oak Tree,” which he designed and built by hand. He had a love for custom cars and vans, and for driving fast cars.
    He loved kids and was known for being at many local sports games and had even traveled many miles to support the “Bomb Squad,” his niece’s fast-pitch softball team.
    Richard contributed in many ways to support local athletics and his grandkids’ football teams. He also enjoyed fishing.
    Richard was a member of Mount Zion Baptist Church.
    He was the son of the late Richard Jr. and Kittie Mae Smith Pickens.
    Surviving are his companion, Virginia Dolly Oliver of Murphy; a daughter, Deanna Oliver of Murphy; a sister, Vivian “Bea” Pickens of Murphy; three brothers, Harry “H.C.” Pickens, Andre Smith and Joseph Christopher Smith, all of Murphy; three grandchildren, Keishon Oliver, Kevon Allen and Breanna Oliver; four nephews, Mark Pickens and his daughter, Kaiya Pickens, Kendall, Byron and Naeem; 14 nieces, Traci, Veronica, Courtney, LeSean, Markita, Blake, Rayana, Aleisha, Tatyana, Ashli, Josslyn, Kyleigh, Biannca and Kendra; two aunts, Delores “Grace” Pickens and Mary Hyatt Pickens; a sister-in-law, Mary Nell Pickens; a special cousin, Fred Kincaid; and a host of other cousins.
    Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Revs. Bruce Oliver, John Webb and Denise Pickens, and Elders Thelena Turner and George Dockery officiating. Music will be provided by Farrah Eller and Marie Oliver.
    The interment will be in Texana Community Cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by Murphy American Legion Post 96, Hayesville VFW Post 6812 and Hayesville American Legion Post 532. Pallbearers will be Kevin Nicely, Emmett Oliver, Jack Jackson, Irvin Brown, T.J. Moore, Paul Allen, Rodney Hill and Earl McCullough. Honorary pallbearers will be Paul Smith, Ray Smith, Andy Smith, Martin Allen and Jerome Parrish.
    The family will receive friends from 1-2:45 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, prior to the services.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Eunice Earline Burks White, 80, of Andrews, died Sunday, Aug. 18, 2019, at Murphy Rehabilitation & Nursing Center.
    Earline was born Dec. 25, 1938, in Whitesburg, Ga., to Eunice Estelle Hinesley Burks and William Oscar Burks.
    She lived in Villa Rica, Ga., before moving to North Carolina. Earline worked as a secretary for Atlanta Insurance Company and as a seamstress at Lee Company.
    She was a member of Order of the Eastern Star.
    Earline was interested in Cherokee history and genealogy as well as the craft of basket making. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren.
    Earline was preceded in death by both her parents, and her husband, James Robert White.
    She is survived by her children, Elizabeth LeDuke of Andrews and John White of Asheville; six grandchildren; and her niece, Dawn Strong of Dallas, Ga.
    Condolences to Eunice’s family may be shared at AshevilleMortuaryServices.com.

    Richard “Turbo/Mean Gene” Pickens, 72, of Murphy, passed away Monday, Aug. 19, 2019, at his residence.
    Richard was known in Indiana as Mean Gene, but changed to Turbo when he returned to Murphy. He was a native of Murphy and a graduate of Murphy High School.
    He was a Vietnam War veteran, serving in the United States Army.
    He lived in Gary, Ind., and worked for Inland Steel for many years before returning to Murphy in 1985.
    Richard had a very inventive mind and was known for building “The Oak Tree,” which he designed and built by hand. He had a love for custom cars and vans, and for driving fast cars.
    He loved kids, and was known for being at many local sports games and had even traveled many miles to support the “Bomb Squad,” his niece’s fast-pitch softball team.
    Richard contributed in many ways to support local athletics and his grandkids’ football teams. He also enjoyed fishing.
    Richard was a member of Mount Zion Baptist Church.
    He was the son of the late Richard Jr. and Kittie Mae Smith Pickens.
    Surviving are his companion, Virginia Dolly Oliver of Murphy; a daughter, Deanna Oliver of Murphy; a sister, Vivian “Bea” Pickens of Murphy; three brothers, Harry “H.C.” Pickens, Andre Smith and Joseph Christopher Smith, all of Murphy; three grandchildren, Keishon Oliver, Kevon Allen and Breanna Oliver; four nephews, Mark Pickens and his daughter, Kaiya Pickens, Kendall, Byron and Naeem; 14 nieces, Traci, Veronica, Courtney, LeSean, Markita, Blake, Rayana, Aleisha, Tatyana, Ashli, Josslyn, Kyleigh, Biannca and Kendra; two aunts, Delores “Grace” Pickens and Mary Hyatt Pickens; a sister-in-law, Mary Nell Pickens; a special cousin, Fred Kincaid; and a host of other cousins.
    Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Revs. Bruce Oliver, John Webb and Denise Pickens, and Elders Thelena Turner and George Dockery officiating. Music was provided by Farrah Eller and Marie Oliver.
    The interment was in Texana Community Cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by Murphy American Legion Post 96, Hayesville VFW Post 6812 and Hayesville American Legion Post 532. Pallbearers were Kevin Nicely, Emmett Oliver, Jack Jackson, Irvin Brown, T.J. Moore, John Allen, Rodney Hill and Earl McCullough. Honorary pallbearers were Paul Smith, Ray Smith, Andy Smith, Martin Allen and Jerome Parrish.
    The family received friends from 1-2:45 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, prior to the services.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Nicholas Michael Menasian, 40, of Louisville, Ky., passed away Saturday Aug. 24, 2019, at his residence.
    He was a telephone contractor most of his life.
    Nicholas was the son of the late Edward Menasian and Susan Slavin Roper.
    In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his grandfather, Barry Slavin Sr., and aunt, Dawn Slavin.
    In addition to his mother, he is survived by his stepfather, Lane Roper; son, Caleb Menasian; daughters, Brianna and Alexia Menasian; brother, Marc Menasian; sisters, Karen Menasian and Miranda Wike; grandmother, Shirley Slavin; uncles and aunts, Danielle Slavin, Michael Slavin, and Gina and Stan Hearn; niece, Alie Slavin; nephews, Zach and Max Slavin; and girlfriend of eight years, Tammy Bixby.
    Memorial services will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, at Shepherd of the Mountains Church. Pastor Chris West will officiate.
    The family will receive friends from 3-4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, at Shepherd of the Mountains Church.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

    Jim Blomeley Sr. reposed on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2019, in Murrieta, Calif., at age 89.
    Jim Blomeley was born Sept. 28, 1929, in Cefala, Ala., the son of William Stanley Blomeley Sr. and Ursalene Ezrey Blomeley. He was one of three boys, and his father was a master carpenter who traveled all over the South from job to job, including the Kennedy compound in West Palm Beach, Fla. He also farmed in several locations throughout the south.
    Jim married Mary Louise “Toni” Roberts, and three children were born: Deborah, James and Nicholas.
    Jim worked much of his life as a lithographer for a printing company, lithography being a trade that no longer exists. For his entire life, he loved printing presses, and would travel long distances to see an antique press that someone had uncovered. He also loved to garden, and could seemingly without effort produce huge crops.
    After the death of Toni Roberts Blomeley in 1999, Jim reconnected with a college girlfriend in 2005, Beverly Brown. They married, and he moved to California to live with her. He and Beverly were very good for each other, and their years together were extremely happy.
    In addition to his parents and his first wife, he was also preceded in death by his youngest son, Nicholas, who died in 2016.
    Surviving are his wife, Beverly Blomeley of Murrieta, Calif.; children, Deborah Gredler and husband Mark of McDonough, Ga., and James Blomeley and wife Susan of Murphy; eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
    A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, in Greenlawn Cemetery in Peachtree. Pastor Don Yancheson of Murphy Seventh-day Adventist Church will conduct the services.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Robert Harry Jones, 77, of Marble, passed away Sunday, Aug. 18, 2019, at Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital.
    He was born Oct. 29, 1941, in Murphy to the late William Alexander Jones and Winnie Faye Hall Jones.
    Mr. Jones had served with the Peachtree Fire Department for 22 years and retired from MGM Brake. He was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed spending time with friends and family.
    Mr. Jones was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Eddie Raxter.
    Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Betty Huskins Jones; children, Doreen Jones Raxter, Jeffrey Jones, Michelle Jones Hall and husband Kevin, Robert (Bobby) Harry Jones Jr., and Greg Jones; sister, Melba (Snookie) Morrow; grandchildren, Chelsea Jones Moss and husband Phillip, Brett Jones, Jacob Jones and wife Kaitlin, Hannah Jones, Isaiah Jones and Jordan Raxter; and great-grandchildren, Huntleigh Moss and Baylor Moss.
    Private family services are planned at a later date.
    Arrangements are entrusted to Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy.
    You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at cochranfuneralhomes.com.

    Eunice Earline Burks White, 80, of Andrews, died Sunday, Aug. 18, 2019, at Murphy Rehabilitation & Nursing Center.
    Earline was born Dec. 25, 1938, in Whitesburg, Ga., to Eunice Estelle Hinesley Burks and William Oscar Burks.
    She lived in Villa Rica, Ga., before moving to North Carolina. Earline worked as a secretary for Atlanta Insurance Company and as a seamstress at Lee Company.
    She was a member of Order of the Eastern Star.
    Earline was interested in Cherokee history and genealogy as well as the craft of basket making. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren.
    Earline was preceded in death by both her parents, and her husband, James Robert White.
    She is survived by her children, Elizabeth LeDuke of Andrews and John White of Asheville; six grandchildren; and her niece, Dawn Strong of Dallas, Ga.
    Condolences to Eunice’s family may be shared at AshevilleMortuaryServices.com.

    Beatrice Faye Chastain, 49, of Murphy, passed away Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019, in an Andrews care facility.
    She was a native and lifetime resident of Murphy. She worked at Industrial Opportunities Inc. for more than 25 years.
    Beatrice loved her cats and dogs, and she enjoyed coloring. Beatrice loved people and had a hug for everyone she encountered.
    She was of the Baptist faith.
    She was the daughter of the late Olen Lake and Lorain Sutton Chastain. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Danny Chastain and Narvil Chastain; and two half sisters, Marilyn Wallace and Tammy Burnett.
    Surviving are three sisters, Patricia Ashe and husband Wayne of Murphy, Diane Owl of Marble and Mary Ann Measmer and husband Gene of Murphy; four brothers, Olen Doug “Bondo” Chastain and wife Marie and Arvil Chastain and wife Alva, all of Murphy, Avery Chastain of Blairsville, Ga., and Olin Lake Chastain and wife Becky of Buford, Ga.; and many nieces and nephews.
    Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Rev. Darrell Dockery officiating. Music will be provided by the Smoky Mountain Singers. The interment will be in Peachtree Community Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Darryl and Barry Kephart, Dennis and Carroll “Brother” Ashe, Chris Watts and Tommy Dockery. Tim Shook will serve as honorary pallbearer.
    The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Krystal Tabitha Millsaps, 30, of Marble, went home to be with the Lord Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019.
    She was the daughter of Randy Millsaps of Bryson City, and stepdaughter of Laura Millsaps of Bryson City and the late Cammy Spence.
    She was preceded in death by her sister-in-law, Amy Jones; grandmother, Margie Jean Millsaps; and grandfather, Larry Spence Sr.
    In addition to her father and stepmother, she is survived by her fiance, Aaron Jones; sister, Shannon Silvers and husband Jeremy; three nephews, Dakoda Silvers, Chance and Coda Blair; two stepbrothers, Aaron English and Benjamin Collins; stepsister, Jessica Holt; step grandmother, Carol Spence; grandfather, Joe Millsaps; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and special aunt and uncle, Pam and Rick DeVore.
    Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 2, in the chapel of Crisp Funeral Home in Bryson City. The Revs. Dale Green and P.D. Hampton will officiate with burial in Moss Cemetery in Marble.
    The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 2, at the funeral home.

    Marvin Stiles, 84, of Murphy, passed away Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, at Murphy Rehabilitation & Nursing.
    He was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, and the son of the late Nathan and Hattie Cook Stiles.
    He was a U.S. Army veteran. Marvin was a member of South End Baptist Church.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Myrtle Stiles; two brothers, William and Arvil Stiles; and two sisters, Annie Timpson and Norma Roberson.
    He is survived by three sons, Randal Stiles and wife Terry, Bill Stiles and wife Janice, and Steve Stiles; three daughters, Trish Golden and husband Warren, Becky Sams and husband Dan, and Shirl Nix and husband Jimmy; one sister, Hazel Cornwell; 29 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
    Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy. Pastor Harold Stiles and the Rev. Steve Stiles will officiate. Burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens with military graveside rites being conducted by American Legion Post 96 Murphy, American Legion Post 532 Hayesville, VFW Post 6812, Hayesville, and the Marine Corps League Marble. Pallbearers will be Michael Sams, Randal Stiles Jr., Forest Stiles, James Tague, Gregory Klima and Benjamin Stiles.
    The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 2, at Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy.
    You may send tributes to the Stiles family at townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.