Obituaries - Hendersonville Lightning (2024)

Recent Obituaries

Sandra Davey (Edwards) Waggoner, 83

Sandra Davey (Edwards) Waggoner, 83, of Hendersonville, NC, passed away at her home on July 27, 2021. Affectionately known as Sandy, Mom, and Nana, she was born on May 15, 1938 in Philadelphia, PA. She grew up in Stuart and Lake Worth, FL, where she attended Rosarian High School. She was the first of three siblings born to Walter F. Davey MD “Doc” and Elizabeth “Betts” Young Davey and is predeceased by her parents and brother “Jay”, Walter F. Davey Jr. DVM, and survived by her sister Susanne “Suz” D. Rappenecker and brother-in -law Steve live in Gainesville, FL.

Sandy met her first husband, Robert C. Edwards, Jr., “Bob”, deceased 1994, when she was a freshman at Duke University Nursing School. They married and (much to Bob’s chagrin) they had four daughters. In the early years the family moved between NC and SC every few years until they landed in Hendersonville in 1970. Sandy was adept at making every new place into a welcoming home. In the early 80s Sandy worked alongside Bob to help start Young Generations, a girls clothing company, and later to purchase Ruth Originals.

Sandy was always involved with volunteer work. She was a member of the Land O’ Sky Garden Club and she spent many years and hours with the Pardee Hospital Auxiliary as the orientation coordinator and training Pink Lady volunteers.

She was active in the Jr. Welfare Club and was involved in entertainment for the
yearly fundraiser. She loved to dance and rehearsed in the garage in front of her audience of 4 girls, paybacks for the endless hours and years of dance recitals she and Dad had to endure.

In 1996 Sandy married a dear family friend, William H. Waggoner, “Bill”, deceased 2013. They loved to travel and spend time in Arizona where Bill had spent much of his childhood. It had to have been true love because Sandy returned from home from their first trip wearing a denim vest and turquoise!

Sandy was a natural beauty, a cheerleader, and homecoming queen. She loved to garden, and loved orchids and pink lady slippers in particular. She was a world-class cook, she loved to host gatherings, she adored and was adored by her friends and neighbors. She loved to play bridge with her friends every Monday, loved chardonnay on ice, and was an avid Duke basketball fan. Most of all she loved Johnny Mathis and her little white dog Sophie.

Sandy spent countless hours baking bread from the starter she was given by her sister Suz many years ago. Her freezer was always full of those loaves of love and she was quick to distribute them to friends on holidays or in times of need. Sandy was supportive, considerate, kind, compassionate and had a keen sense of humor. She was famous for clipping articles from the local paper and mailing them to people she thought would have an interest. She will be remembered for the little pearls of wisdom she peppered us with throughout our lives and her daily mantra of, “I’M FINE.”

Sandy is survived by her daughter Betsy Edwards of Hendersonville, NC; daughter and son-in-law Susan and Mark Sangiolo, West Harwich, MA; daughter and son-in-law Leslie and John co*ker, Hendersonville NC; daughter and son-in-law Ashley and Robert Thompson, Birmingham, AL; and her seven grandchildren: Allee Cox, Anne Crowell, Adam Sangiolo, Griffin Thompson, Hannah co*ker, Graham Thompson and Bennett Thompson.

Sandy was fortunate to have five loving step-children: Steven Waggoner, Wendy Henderson, Melinda Bryant, Karen Saine, and Pati Waggoner-Meyers and all of their children and grandchildren whom she adored.

We extend a heartfelt “thank you” to all her wonderful friends and neighbors, the staff and caregivers at Lake Point Landing, her hair and nail stylists, her drivers, her Trust advisors, her dog sitters, her doctors and veterinarians. It truly took a village for Sandy to live happily, independent.

Don’t worry Sandy, we will all be fine, but we will all miss you so much.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Community Foundation of Henderson County
Robert C. Edwards Jr. and Sandra Edwards Waggoner Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Community Foundation of Henderson County
401 North Main St, Suite 300
Hendersonville, NC 28792

Private, Family only burial at St. James Memorial Garden

Jackson Funeral Service is assisting the Waggoner family.

Joseph Donato Anastasio, 96

Joseph Donato Anastasio, 96, of Hendersonville, NC went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and his beloved wife, Dagmar on Wednesday, June 30, 2021 at his residence. He was a native of Brooklyn, NY and was preceded in death by his wife, Dagmar and his parents, Pasquale and Fortunata of Italy and then Brooklyn, NY, three sisters and one brother.
Joe served in World War II in the European Theater. He fought in both the Invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. He retired after almost 30 years with the city of New York, NY Department of Transportation. Joe was a lifelong devout Roman Catholic.
He is survived by many nieces and nephews of New York and Germany.
A prayer service will be held at 2pm on Thursday, July 8th, 2021, in the Chapel of Forest Lawn Funeral Home. Joe will lie in state from 1-2pm prior to the service in the chapel. Military honors will follow the service in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.
Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.forestlawnhendersonville.com
Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Marilyn Munson

Marilyn Munson, loving wife of Greg Munson, passed away on March 25th, 2021 at home in Canton, Georgia of causes unrelated to Covid-19. Marilyn is survived by three children – Mark Munson (Melissa Feemster), Julie Beck (Doug Beck) and Amy Munson and four grandchildren – Molly and Max Fitzsimons, Kate and Walter Beck. Marilyn was a devoted Christian Scientist and had many talents. At age four she started playing the piano (Marilyn had perfect pitch), and by sixteen was a church organist, with a career that spanned over 50 years. As a result, Marilyn made fast friends with many famous organists and was a past president of the American Guild of Organists of the Western North Carolina Chapter. In addition, she taught private piano lessons to many beloved students for over 20 years. Outside of music, Marilyn loved making art (particularly watercolors) and studying art history. She was proud of her Masters in Humanities. An enthusiast of art museums, Marilyn was happy to stand in front of a single painting and study every detail for long periods of time. Having learned German from her parents (first generation immigrants) Marilyn was the family ambassador for relatives in Europe and enjoyed many trips abroad. Her German cousins were like brothers and sisters to her. Long before Google maps and armed only with a Rand McNally, Marilyn was always game to hop in the car for a drive – whether it was a long trip from New York to Alaska, the parks in Utah, or an unpaved road up the side of a mountain. In addition, swimming or a great meal (with dessert first) always made her smile. Marilyn always had a twinkle in her eye, and will be missed as the rock of our family.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Longleaf Hospice (who were the most thoughtful and caring the last few weeks) or The PublishingSociety/CS (who gave Marilyn inspiration her entire life).

https://longleafhospice.com/?page_id=12
(Under the Foundation tab – go to Donate – click on ‘Add special instructions to the seller:” to include an “in memory of Marilyn Munson”)

https://giving.christianscience.com/?icid=Homepage:eyebrown-nav:Giving
(Please donate to The Monitor Operating Fund or The Mary Baker Eddy Library Fund )

Charles David Pace, 89

Charles David Pace, 89, of Hendersonville, passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at Elizabeth House.
A native of Saluda and Hendersonville, Charles was born to the late Claude and Inez Pace; he is also predeceased by brothers, George, Lewis, Leverl, Sam, Ralph,Tony (CT) Pace; and a sister, Flossie Mae Atkins.

After graduating from Saluda High School, Charles worked for Berkeley Mills, American Enka, Stonecutter Mills of Mills Springs, and Steelcase of Asheville. Charles met the love of his life, Ruth Garren and the two were married on July 2, 1955.

Charles enjoyed hunting, fishing and various sports. After retirement he enjoyed traveling with Ruth, volunteering at Immaculata School, and working each Christmas for The Bounty Of Bethlehem. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports at Hendersonville High School and never missed an opportunity to be with his family whether it was at a dance recital or at the Flat Rock Playhouse.

Left to cherish Charles’ memory is his wife of almost sixty-six years, Ruth Amanda Garren Pace; a daughter, Deborah Pace Rouse and her husband, Turner Morrison Rouse, Sr of Flat Rock; a son, Steven Charles Pace of Etowah; grandchildren, Mary Elizabeth Rouse Rankin and her husband, Claude Squires Rankin, Jr of London, England; Turner Morrison Rouse, Jr and his fiancé Hannah Richter of New York, NY; and great-grandchildren, Jack Belo Rankin and Charles Squires Rankin also of London, England. Charles is also survived by sisters, Lola Mae Gossett of Wellford, SC, Esther Wilson of Mountain Home and Diana Byrd of Lake Helen, Fl; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions can be made to Meals on Wheels/ The Henderson County Council on Aging, 105 King Creek Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792, or The Pardee Hospital Foundation, 561 Fleming Street, Hendersonville, NC 28739.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Four Seasons Palliative Care and The Elizabeth House, The Brian Center of Hendersonville, The Landings of Mills River, Carolina Pines of Asheville, Pardee Hospital, Dr. Ed Lilly and staff, Dr. Ron Moffitt and staff, Henderson County Emergency Management Services, each of his home caregivers, and especially Martha Todd, FNP and the staff of WNC Family Medical Center.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a memorial service will be announced at a later date.

James N. Albritton Jr.

James N. Albritton Jr. “Jimmy”, 77 of Hendersonville, NC went to be with the Lord February 4, 2021.
He was a native and lifelong resident of Henderson County. He was the son of the late James and Florence Ramsey Albritton.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Grace Gilbert Albritton; two daughters, Teresa Foreman and Christy and her husband Jeffery Ledbetter. He was the proud Poppy to five grandchildren Michael (Amber) Lolley, Andrew (Sheridan) Hilliard, Amanda Hillard, Emma and Taylor Ledbetter, two great grandchildren Barrett and Brynly and two “sons”, Rick Hilliard and Tim Lolley.
He was a proud member of In Jesus Name Church where he served as chairman of deacons and Sunday School Teacher as long as his health allowed. He was always a great christian example to all who knew him.
Special thanks to our helper and friend, Linda DelBuono.
A memorial service will Saturday February 20, 2021 at 2 PM at In Jesus Name Church with the Reverend Dale Gilbert officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to In Jesus Name Church or to the Gideons.
Condolence cards may be sent to the family atwww.jacksonfuneralservice.comorto Po Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

Eugene Patrick Roberts Jr,

Eugene Patrick Roberts Jr, (originally from MD) passed away unexpectedly on January 5, 2021. He is survived by his spouse and 3 sons. No funeral services will be held.

Nancy Davis Morton, 91

Nancy Davis Morton, 91, of Hendersonville, died peacefully on Tuesday, January 5, 2021, in the care of her family and the compassionate staff of Elizabeth House.

She was born July 26, 1929, in Cedar Lake, Indiana. Her parents were Royal Edgar Davis and Mildred Belle Spindler Davis. She had one sister, Joan Davis Vargo.

She graduated from DePauw University in 1951. She was a member of Alpha Chi Omega Sorority. On March 29,1952, she married James Lee Morton. They moved to Hendersonville in 1960 and became active members in the community and St. James Episcopal Church.

Nancy was active most her life in Girl Scouts of America. In addition to being a troop leader, she directed “A Good Ole Mountain Do”, a national girl scouting event held in Western North Carolina. She spearheaded efforts for the Hunger Walk, She led the St. James Outreach Commission, organizing Candlemas Concerts for many years. She worked with Cambodian refugee families resettled in the community. She taught Adult Basic Education and GED courses for Blue Ridge Community College, helping many people achieve their diplomas. She was an avid quilter and knitter making hats for Head Start and Linus blankets.

She is survived by her children Claudia Morton (Tony) Ends of Brodhead Wisconsin. Anne Victoria Morton (Pete Fredrick) of Silver City, New Mexico, and Paul Davis Morton (Katherine Chung) of Lafayette Louisiana; her grandchildren Heather Neeld (CJ Whelton), Holly (Aaron) Deschenes, James Ends, Joel Ends, Micah (Miranda) Ends, Diana Jones (Hunter Pope), Maggie Harris (Aderli Garcia), Ben (Carrie)Jones, Davis Jones (Hannah Bessenecker), Abigail Morton (Sam Leberg) and six great-grandchildren.

There will be a private interment of ashes and a celebration of her life at a later date.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be sent to Henderson County Hunger Coalition, Hendersonville Rescue Mission, or Four Seasons Hospice.

J. Edward Jones, 86

James Edward “Ed” Jones, 86 passed away November 14, 2020, at Four Seasons Hospice (Elizabeth House) in Hendersonville, NC.

A Henderson county native, Ed was born September 23, 1934 to Dexter “Deck” Jones and Nina Pace Jones. He attended Hendersonville High School and then received his BA from the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC. After a brief time as an accountant, Ed entered the insurance business as an agent for Sutherland Insurance and Realty Company. In the early 1980’s, Ed became the sole owner of Sutherland Insurance Company and continued to work there until his retirement in 2017. In addition to growing his business, Ed served on multiple committees and boards including the Board of Directors for MountainBank. He was a lifetime member of Kiwanis Club of Hendersonville and a founding and lifetime member of the Dana Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed gardening and spending time with his beloved cats.

Ed was preceeded in death by his parents, Deck and Nina Jones and by his wife of 46 years, Jeanne Staton Jones. He is survived by his niece, Veronica McKay and her husband, Billy McKay, a nephew, Robert Staton, two great nieces, Havan and Molly McKay and sister-in-law, Joyce Staton. Ed is also survived by his long-time friend and companion, Betty Barnett.

Shuler Funeral Services will be handling the arrangements. A graveside service will be held for family and friends at Refuge Baptist Church cemetary Friday, November 20, 2020 at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Four Seasons Hospice, 571 S. Allen Rd., Flat Rock, NC 28731

Mary Ann Lampley,

Mary Ann Lampley, of Hendersonville, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2020.

Mary Ann Lampley was born January 30th, 1927 in Washington, DC.

She was the first child of Arthur John McGettrick and Mary Myers McGettrick.

Mary Ann took an early interest in theater when, as a child, she and her friends formed a small neighborhood group called The McStag Co Club, in which she performed, produced, and directed.

When she graduated from high school, she attended nursing school and earned her degree as R.N. During this time she met a young surgeon, William Askew Lampley, MD, who became her husband of 69 years. In their early years, they moved around the country often in his career in the US Public Health Service, after the close of WWII.

In time, they settled into Dr. Lampley's home town of Hendersonville, NC. She became a mother and homemaker until she returned to her love of theater and performed in many Asheville Community Theater productions. Eventually she became a founding member of Hendersonville Little Theater, now known as Hendersonville Community Theater. She was also a founder of the short-lived Pentagram Players.

When her children were all grown, she went back to school at UNC Asheville and received degrees in Theater and Spanish. She continued performing in musical theater and solo singing for many years.
She performed and served on the Board of Directors at the Flat Rock Playhouse.

Over her lifetime, she was a member of the Hendersonville Junior Welfare Club and the Henderson County Republican Party. She Served on the Henderson County Board of Health and Senior Care Advisory Board. She was one of the Founders of the “POOCH” (Protective Order of Canine Happiness) Dog Show. She has been a loyal supporter of the Henderson County Rescue Squad and Henderson County Sheriff's Department.

She was also a lifelong avid bridge player.

Mary Ann is survived by her three children: William Askew Lampley Jr (Sharon), Margie Lampley Capell, and John William Lampley (Claudia); a brother, John Francis McGettrick, and sister Dolores McGettrick Gelly; four grandchildren, Ivy L Roush (Charles), Lauren Lampley Stanfield (Christopher), Peter H Lampley, and John Mark Lampley; three great grandchildren, Abraham and Juniper Stanfield, and Fiona Roush; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Services will be private at this time. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

Donations may be made to: The Salvation Army of Hendersonville, Henderson County Rescue Squad, and Hospice of Henderson County.

Jackson Funeral Service is assisting the family with the arrangements

James Kenneth Anders

On Monday July 27, 2020 James Kenneth Anders of Brevard passed away at the age of
84.
On Tuesday July 28, 2020 Peggy Allen Anders of Brevard passed away at the age of 82
after succumbing to injuries they both received from a fatal car accident.
James Kenneth Anders (Kenny) is the son of the late Bonnie A. Simpson. He is
preceded in death by his brother Dennis Simpson and his son James Robbie Anders
and infant daughter Amy Carol Anders. Kenneth was an avid antique car collector. He
enjoyed working on and restoring all cars. He is best known for his ability to find you
the perfect car no matter your budget.
Peggy Allen Anders was the daughter of the late Berlin Allen and Francis King Allen.
She was a devoted wife for 65 years and mother to 6 children. She is preceded in
death by her sister Betty A. Gonce and son James Robbie Anders and infant daughter
Amy Carol Anders. She enjoyed taking care of her family, listening to country music
and drawing close to Jehovah.
They are survived by their son Derric R. Anders, wife Nancy J. Anders of
Hendersonville. Daughters Kimberly K. Anders of Mills River, Leslie N. Helton of
Brevard, Kristy D. Henderson, husband Nicky D. Henderson of Hendersonville.
They shared 6 grandchildren and 3 great granddaughters.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday August 5th, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at
Moody-Connolly Funeral Home, 181 S. Caldwell Street, Brevard, N.C. 28712.

Andrea Miriam Ashley White

Andrea Miriam Ashley White of Hendersonville died on June 22, 2020 in Hendersonville, NC. She was born in Clendenin, WV on November 17, 1939 the daughter of Byron and Earnie Payne Ashley. She married James David (Jim) White on November 25, 1960. They moved to Hendersonville in 1967 when Jim took a position as an engineer at the DuPont x-ray film plant.

Andrea graduated from Clendenin High School in 1958 and Fletcher School of Nursing in 1976. She worked as floor nurse and head nurse at Pardee Hospital from 1976 – 1985. She continued to work as a registered nurse until the early 90’s at McGregor Home Health, Hendersonville Surgical Associates, and Visiting Health Professionals.

She had a beautiful alto singing voice and could harmonize with almost any song that came on the radio. She was in family singing groups, high school choir, and the Hendersonville Choral Society. She and Jim enjoyed hiking, bird watching, and traveling. She also enjoyed dancing and competed in ballroom dancing for several years. She was a great cook. Her grandchildren even had a special chant for “Nana Cooking.”

Andrea had many long-time friends in Henderson County. She and Jim enjoyed discussing books, eating good meals and drinking wine every other month for decades with friends Ethlyn and Frank Byrd, Pat and Keith Dalbec, Mary and Bill Garrison, Madge and Hugh Gleaton; and Crystal and Chuck Smith. Sheila Berger graduated from Fletcher School of Nursing with Andrea and remained a close friend the rest of her life. She also had dear friends and family living around the country including Judy Peirsol, Linda and Don Booth, and Angela and Chris Booth.

She was preceded in death by her husband Jim and a sister, Carolyn Ashley. She is survived by her son David White and his wife Maria; her daughter Jamie Rudisill and her husband Edgar; grandchildren Schuyler Rudisill, Nathan Rudisill, Zachary White and his wife Elizabeth. She is also survived by her sister Sueanna Dickinson, her brother Douglas Ashley and his wife Virginia, and dozens of in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, plans for a memorial will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations made be made to Western Carolina Community Action, P.O. Box 685, Hendersonville, NC 28793.

To offer online condolences please visit www.mtnviewcremation.com. Mountain View Cremation & Funeral Care assisted the family.

Terry “Elvi” Foster, 57

Terry “Elvi” Foster, 57, of Flat Rock, NC went to be with the Lord on Friday, April 10, 2020. Jackson Funeral Service will announce the arrangements.

Betty Jo (Greene) Newman, 83

June 9, 1936-March 2, 2020
Betty Jo Newman, 83 of Mill Spring, NC passed away Monday afternoon March 2, 2020 at the Cedar Mountain House in Brevard NC.
Born in Henderson County, she was the daughter of the late Eckels Glenn Greene and Mary Elizabeth Stepp Greene and widow of Clyde C. Newman, Sr. who died in 1988. Mrs Newman was dedicated to her family and friends, had several interest and was an avid Elvis fan. She was employed by Grover Industries in Lynn, NCand retired with South Carolina Elastic in Landrum, SC.
Surviving is a son, Clyde C. Newman, Jr. (Rhonda) of Mill Spring; two grandsons, Alan Newman and Jordan Newman. A loving sister Brenda Owenby of Greenwood, SC and several neices and nephews. Mrs Newman was preceded in death by 3 brothers and 3 sisters.
A funeral service was held at 11:00 am March 7, 2020 in the McFarland Funeral Chapel wih Dr. Chris Osborn officiating. Prior, family and friends had a service 10:00 am at the Funeral Chapel and the burial was at the Polk Memorial Gardens in Columbus, NC.

Dr. John Robert Spengler, 92

Dr. John Robert Spengler, 92, of Hendersonville, died on March 14, 2020, at the Elizabeth House. He was born October 20, 1927 in Toledo, Ohio a son of the late Otto Herman Spengler and Ruth Kathrine Zentmyer Spengler. In addition to his parents Dr. Spengler was also preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara Ann Spengler, one brother “Bill” Spengler as well as one sister Marjorie Spengler Lumm.

Dr. Spengler received his Bachelor of Science from University of Toledo and did his post graduate schooling in biochemistry at Ohio State University and St. Louis University where he would receive his Doctorate of Medicine. He completed his residency at the University of Wisconsin in both internal medicine and radiology. He attended military school qualifying as a B12 Navy pilot, a role he was un- able to fulfill as WWII ended, however he served in the US Air Force as a medical officer achieving the rank of Captain. While stationed in Japan he met the love of his life Ann, whom he adored. John and Ann would be married and spend the next 58 years together building a family. After his service in the Air Force he accepted the role as the Chief Radiologist at the Burns Clinic in Petoskey, Michigan from 1960 to 1965. Dr. Spengler then began his career at Pardee Memorial Hospital in Hendersonville NC in 1965 as Chief Radiologist. Dr. Spengler established many of the diagnostic radiology programs that are the core of radiology services at Pardee. He started the nuclear medicine program, the ultrasound program and was instrumental in developing CT Scanning services. The mammography, fluoroscopy, arthrography and x-ray therapy components were also the result of Dr. Spengler’s work ethic and dedication to his craft.

Dr. Spengler was a computer guru, an avid photographer and loved to travel. He was a member of the North Carolina Beekeepers Association, The Hendersonville Country Club as well as The First United Methodist Church of Hendersonville. He was certified as a Diplomat of the American Board of Radiology and had medical licenses in five states. He loved the outdoors which kept him gardening; cultivating prize winning tomatoes, boating, hiking and fishing. He also enjoyed staying fit by playing tennis, swimming and other water sports. He adored his family and cherished his time spent with them.

Dr. Spengler was a compassionate, loving husband, father and doctor that cared deeply about improving the health and lives of the people of Henderson County. His respect and concern for others was readily apparent to everyone he had the honor to know. He is survived by one son, J.O. Spengler and his wife Mariah of College Station, Texas and one daughter Kathy Spengler Spade and her husband Jeff of Cary. In addition to his children he is also survived by five grandchildren: Caroline Spengler, Matthew Spengler, Cori Spade, Camden Spade, Kristen Childs, her husband Daniel Childs and two great grandchildren; Lydia Childs and Caleb Childs.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked that memorial contributions be made to Kindred United Methodist Church; a new church which was started by his grandson, Pastor Daniel Childs. Memorials may be sent to Kindred Church, 150 E. Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27514 or online at https://kindrednc.church/give/.

A memorial service will be scheduled and announced in the future when it is appropriate to gather together.

An online register book is available to family and friends to express condolences by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center are in charge of arrangements.

Richard Ide Kirkland, 92

Richard Ide Kirkland, 92, of Hendersonville, died on Saturday April 04, 2020 at Carolina Village Care Center.

Jackson Funeral Service is assisting the Kirkland family.

Hugh Elbert Gleaton, Jr

Hugh Elbert Gleaton, Jr., a Navy veteran and retired ophthalmologist, died on March 17, 2020. He leaves behind his wife of almost 60 years, Madge Slade Gleaton, four children and their spouses (Shelley Gleaton Bourdon, and her husband Paul; Slade Gleaton, and his wife Lori; Whitney Gleaton Jackson, and her husband Jeff; and Mark Gleaton, and his wife Elaine). He also leaves behind nine grandchildren, two great grandchildren, a brother, two sisters, and many nieces and nephews.

Raised on a farm in south Georgia, Hugh served in the Navy upon graduation from the University of Georgia and the Medical College of Georgia. Upon completion of his service, he moved to Hendersonville in 1972 to set up a medical practice, but he continued to be an avid UGA fan. In fact, some of his family often suspected that Hugh’s “true” religion was Georgia football. His family is very pleased that one of Hugh’s most prized UGA-fan possessions—a framed picture of the University of Georgia’s white bulldog mascot, “Uga"—secretly made its way, as a joke, into the office of a local pastor who is a diehard Clemson fan.

Although the University of Georgia was one of the great loves of Hugh’s life, his other passions included books, crossword puzzles, baseball, stamp collecting, gardening, and music. He was a life-long classical pianist, who picked up the Celtic fiddle in his retirement years; and, in midlife, developed quite a zest for bluegrass music and the banjo. Hugh loved supporting community art programs and local college scholarships. But he also loved to laugh, most especially at the jokes his wife Madge would make, even when they happened to be at his own expense. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or P.O. Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793; and, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Four Seasons Hospice at https://fourseasons.teleioscn.org/ or 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock NC 28731. A private graveside service will be held at a later date at the Carolina Memorial Sanctuary in Mills River, NC.

Jeffrey Clinton Isleib

Jeffrey Clinton Isleib, a thirty-year resident of Hendersonville and former owner of Isleib
Painting passed away on February 15, 2020 at the age of 66.
Jeff is survived and will be missed by his sister-in-law Tammi Drake Neill and husband Roy
Neill, his nephew Drake English and wife Ashley Wheelon English and his big orange cat
“Tripper.” He is predeceased by his wife Cheryl Drake Isleib, his brother Patrick Isleib, his
father Ernest Isleib and his mother Elizabeth Shapiro. Jeff was born in Connecticut and moved
to Florida where he met and married Cheryl Drake of Hendersonville. Jeff and Cheryl moved to Hendersonville where he was a self-employed painter.
Jeff loved animals, the New York Giants and the Boston Red Sox. He especially loved to write a scathing letter to the editor and always had an opinion he was willing to share. He was raised in an Italian neighborhood and cooked sauce the old-fashioned way.
The family would like to thank Dr. Novak in the emergency room, Matt, Courtney and Shelby in the intensive care unit and Dr. James J. Caserio and staff for their care and concern. If anyone would like to make a memorial to Jeff, the family recommends donations be made to the Blue Ridge Humane Society.
Jackson Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the family.

James “Jim” Franklin Laughter, Jr.

James “Jim” Franklin Laughter, Jr., better known as “Coach” or “Pop” Laughter, 82, died Wednesday, February 12, 2020 following a brief illness at the Elizabeth House. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Elva Laughter, as well as his wife, Shirley who died in 2015.

He was a Henderson County native and lifelong educator of our community. Coach Laughter commenced his teaching career in 1959 with Hendersonville High School, moving to Hendersonville Junior High School in 1964. He coached the first integrated football, basketball, and track teams in the county’s history and was instrumental in building the strong foundation that continues today instilling the pride of being a “Bearcat.” His former players as well as colleagues felt he was a pivotal factor in breaking many racial barriers in Henderson County. In 1972, he started the Physical Education program at Bruce Drysdale Elementary, allowing all students to participate in their level of physical activity which remains intact today.

Although “Coach” officially retired from teaching in 1991, he continued mentoring the students in numerous capacities in the Henderson County School system until 2010, spanning over 51 years of positive influence on young people in Hendersonville. He took great pride in the knowledge that he was able to help former student’s children and left an everlasting mark on them as well.
“Pop” was a member of both the Henderson County Education Foundation Hall of Fame as well as the Hendersonville High School Hall of Fame. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Hendersonville.

Jim is survived by his four sons: Franklin, Jonathan, Chris and his wife, Miranda, and BJ and his wife Amy. Four grandchildren: Josh, Emma, Jordyn, and Avery; as well as two great-grandchildren: Peyton and Dylan. He is also survived by one brother, Joseph.

The memorial service will be held at 2:30 pm, on Saturday, February 15, 2020 at the First Baptist Church of Hendersonville, with the Reverend Eric Gash officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:15 prior to the service in the church sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in “Coach’s” memory be directed to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Camp Scholarship Fund, PO Box 6544, Hendersonville, NC 29793.
Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of the arrangements.

Irene Robertson

Irene Robertson of Hendersonville passed away on Saturday, November 23, 2019 at the age of 103. She was born on July 17, 1916 in Olten, Switzerland, daughter of Eugene and Mina Hildebrand. When she was seven years old her family emigrated to the United States. Irene spent her childhood and working life in New Jersey where she raised a family and was one of the first female employees of the Prudential Life Insurance Company to earn the credentials of Certified Life Underwriter.

After retirement in 1981, Irene and her husband Jim chose to move to Hendersonville. They were members of Trinity Presbyterian Church where they were youth group leaders and Irene served as a Deacon and Elder. She also volunteered as a counselor at IAM, was a member of the Carolina Mountain Club, and enjoyed playing golf at the Hendersonville Country Cluband participating in local book and bridge groups. She was an excellent skier, taught some of her grandchildren to enjoy the sport, and was an active skier past the age of 80.

Irene was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, James Robertson, a daughter Barbara Anne Robertson, and a son James Robertson Jr. She is survived by a daughter, Lois Fritsche of Kennett Square; PA, a brother Kurt Hildebrand of Pacific Palisades, CA; six grandchildren, James Robertson (Abby) of Hendersonville, Todd Fritsche of Phoenixville, PA, Lisa Lelito of Cary, NC, David Robertson of Mechanicsville, VA, Barbara Ward of Etowah, NC, and Kevin Robertson (Mariam) of Alexandria, VA; her great-grandchildren Valerie Harrison(Wesley) of Hendersonville, James Robertson of Candler, NC, Emalee Richman (Peter) of Hendersonville, Jessica Fritsche of Phoenixville, PA, Madelaine Fritsche of Hershey PA, Katelyn Fritsche of Columbia, SC, Hannah Lelito, of Washington, DC, Joshua Lelito of Cary, NC, Danielle Robertson of Glen Allen, VA, Katelyn Ward, currently serving with the US Army in Lithuania, McKenzie Ward and Kylei Ward of Etowah, NC; two great-great grandchildren, Viola and Karoline Harrison of Hendersonville.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church on Saturday, December 14, 2019 at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to Interfaith Assistance Ministry, PO box 2562, Hendersonville, NC 28793 or Trinity Presbyterian Church, 900 Blythe St, Hendersonville, NC 28791.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of the arrangements.

Bruce Wayne Maurer

Bruce Wayne Maurer died on September 30 at Mission Hospital in Asheville after a short illness.

Bruce was born in Munich, Germany on February 27, 1955. He grew up in Shrewsbury, New Jersey and attended high school and college in Red Bank, New Jersey.

Together Bruce and his wife, Melissa, own and operate Blue Ribbon Custom Frame Shop for 33 years.

Bruce was active in Henderson County youth sports as a referee, umpire, coach, and mentor. Over the years, he coached soccer, T-ball and baseball. He enjoyed interaction with all youth athletes and was a supporter of many Henderson County youth. He held an intense love of all sports.

As an Eagle Scout, Bruce supported scouting all his life and was Assistant and Scoutmaster of Troop 604. Bruce encouraged not only his son Elliott but many
young men from Cub Scouts to Eagle Scout.

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Melissa Laney Maurer; son Elliott Brian Maurer (Meghan Noel) of Asheville; daughter Julia Maurer Anderson (Cameron) of Raleigh; and new granddaughter, Tinsley Rose Anderson. Surviving siblings, Sandra Kay, Alan, Hank (Henrietta), Stuart and Pamela, many nieces, nephews and extended family.

A memorial service for family members and those who loved Bruce will be held Friday, October 4 at 2:30 p.m. at McConnell Farms, 177 Old Dana Road, Hendersonville, followed at 4:30 p.m. by a celebration of life upstairs at Sierra Nevada Taproom, 100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River. Please bring photos of Bruce and share your humorous Bruce stories.

Bruce loved his adopted community, had a unique sense of humor, enjoyed fun, was funny, loved young and old alike; his heart was always fair and good.

In lieu of flowers a college fund is being established for Tinsley Rose Anderson at Wells Fargo Downtown Branch, Hendersonville.

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