Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Everyone sooner or later encounters the sorrowful and unavoidable farewell journey of their loved ones. Experiencing such moments can be truly despairing, especially when you have the added responsibility of coordinating a funeral. It's natural to want the final rites to be seamless and stirring, a true tribute to your dear departed. Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services can easily handle these demanding tasks with utmost care and dignity.

Understanding Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services is dedicated to ensuring grief-stricken families can honor their departed relatives with befitting final rites. They bring a wealth of professional experience in funeral services and make a delicate process as smooth and manageable as possible.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Thomas Cleo Pinkerton - December 16, 1936 - April 18, 2022

Departed: 04/18/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Candler – Thomas Cleo Pinkerton, 85, passed away on Monday, April 18, 2022, at CarePartners Hospice Solace Center (JF Keever).

Thomas was a native of Madison County and a son of the late Alvah Clingman and Cora Lee Allison Pinkerton.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Thomas Charles Woody; daughter, Rinda Jean Skipper; and a sister, Allie Marie Payne.  Thomas was a United States Marine veteran, a member of Trinity Baptist Church and was very active in mission and Christian soldier’s ministries.

He is survived by four daughters, Vickie Pinkerton, Terry Lynn Rose, both of Canton, Carolyn Ann Pinkerton of Candler, and Gwendolyn Charlene Painter of Campobello, South Carolina; four sons, Ronald Neal Pinkerton of Clyde, Stephen Edward Pinkerton of Oteen, Daniel Thomas Pinkerton of Candler, and David Alan Pinkerton of Franklin; two sisters, Delia Louise Cochran and Ruby Lee Hargrove; 22 grandchildren; and 9 greatgrandchildren and one on the way..

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Jackie Lance - November 18, 1939 - April 17, 2022

Departed: 04/17/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Candler – Jackie Murray Lance, 82, passed away on Easter morning at Asheville Specialty Hospital.

Jackie was a native of Buncombe County and a daughter of the late Lebo and Gladys Stamey Murray.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband of 48 years, Charles Calvin Lance and second husband, James Doc “J.D.” Grooms of 6 years; two sisters, Phyllis M. Ensley and Martha Lance; and one brother, Ben Murray.  Jackie was a 1958 graduate of Enka High School and a member of New Hope Baptist Church.

She is survived by two daughters, Marsha McCoy (Danny) of Candler and Carol Poplin (Brad) of Maryville, Tennessee; two sons, Charles “Chuck” Lance, Jr. (Kelly) of Candler and Nathan Lance (Laurin) of Inman, South Carolina; one sister, Bobbie Jane Whitted of Asheville; one brother, Reverend Jimmy Bruce Murray of Broadway, Virginia; eleven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

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Janice Carrole Stevenson - September 11, 1940 - April 13, 2022

Departed: 04/13/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Asheville – Janice Kuykendall Stevenson, 81, passed away on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at the Laurels of Green Tree Ridge in Asheville.

She spent her early life in Hendersonville and lived most of her life in Asheville and was the daughter of the late David and Evie Stepp Kuykendall.  She was also preceded in death by her husband, Harry Lee Stevenson, who died in 2016 and a brother, Larry F. Kuykendall.  Janice was a wonderful homemaker.  She was a former member of Temple Baptist Church and currently a member of West Asheville Baptist Church.  Janice’s interest included music, singing, and she enjoyed reading her books.

She is survived by two daughters, Robyn Creegan (John) of Morganton and Rebecca Taylor (Reid) of Waynesville; a brother, James Harold Kuykendall of Hendersonville; two grandsons, Jason Ashley Creegan and Tyler Stevenson Creegan (Rachel); three great-grandchildren, Tristan, Bella and Cole; two sisters-in-law, Tootsie Kuykendall and Maureen Kuykendall; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, April 18, 2022, in the Canton Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the Reverend Don Harrison and Mr. Reid Taylor officiating.  Burial will follow at Crawford/Ray Memorial Gardens.  The family will receive friends from 12:30 until 1:45 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

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Jerry Dewane Venable - August 02, 1946 - April 09, 2022

Departed: 04/09/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Jerry Dewane Venable, 75, passed away on Saturday April 9, 2022 at CarePartners Hospice in Asheville.

A native and lifelong resident of Haywood County, he was the son on the late Cletus and Lois Nelson Venable.  He was also preceded in death by a brother, Paul Venable.  Jerry enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, camping and watching sports, westerns, and the stock market.  He was a member of Cane Creek Baptist Church.  Jerry was a United States Navy veteran.

He is survived by a daughter, Kimberly Venable, of Canton; a son, Jerry David “Chip” Venable (Kristina), of Concord; a sister, Arleen Whitley, of Spartanburg, South Carolina; and six grandchildren Vanessa, Alex, Brooke, Josh, Braydon and Britton.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at Cane Creek Baptist Church with the Reverend Chad Bennett officiating.  Inurnment will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Western Carolina Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain. The care of Mr. Venable has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Donald Bryson Smathers - February 19, 1934 - April 09, 2022

Departed: 04/09/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Donald Bryson Smathers, 88, passed away on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at Silver Bluff Nursing Home.

A native and lifelong resident of Haywood County, he was the son of the late Charles Oscar and Lucy Hargrove Smathers.  He was also preceded in death by two sisters, Cesareen Penland and Eileen Greybow; and a brother, Frederick H. Smathers.  Donald was a member of First United Methodist Church of Canton.  He enjoyed making Christmas wreaths, nature, growing plants, country and gospel music and traveling.  Donald was a United States Navy veteran serving during the Korean conflict and an American Legion member.  He enjoyed church sponsored block parties for veterans, especially World War II veterans.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joyce Lyerly Smathers; two daughters, Donna Smathers Beebe (Dennis) of Seneca, South Carolina and Tamara Smathers Worley (Stephen) of Canton; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 15, 2022, at First United Methodist Church of Canton with the Reverend Gordon Pike and Reverend Clay J. Morgan officiating.  Burial will follow at Morning Star Community Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 12:30 until 1:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church.

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Mary Carolyn McCracken - July 27, 1936 - April 08, 2022

Departed: 04/08/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Mary Carolyn “Granny” Gilreath McCracken, 85, passed away on Friday April 8, 2022, at her residence.

She was the daughter of the late Howard and Erma Plott Gilreath and was also preceded in death by two brothers, Bobby “Junior” Gilreath and Howard Gilreath, Jr.  Carolyn was an employee of BASF for 27 years and retired from Champion International with 35 years of service.  She was a member of Canton First Baptist Church and enjoyed word puzzles, TV shows and her chocolates.  Mary especially cherished her granddaughters.  Carolyn was a beautiful, smart, and caring lady.  Her smile was like an angels’ smile.

She is survived by a son, Jason and his wife, Brenda T. Campbell, of Canton; two granddaughters, Breanna “Bree” Campbell, Madalyn “Maddie” Campbell and a grandson, Raviance Ayen.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at Bon-A-Venture Cemetery on Old Clyde Road with the Reverend Harry Worley officiating.

Pallbearers will be Jason Campbell, Brian Rease, Wes Buckner, Roy Campbell, Mike Marrone, and Ryan Cook.

A special thanks is extended to Four Seasons Hospice, Maggie Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation, and special family and friends, Brian Rease, Marcia Campbell Propest, Roy Campbell who always made sure she had her pickled beans, Mark Pharm, and Brook Sheppard. The care of Mrs. McCracken has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Maxine Jarvis - December 20, 1947 - April 07, 2022

Departed: 04/07/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Candler – Grace Maxine Stuart Jarvis, 74, passed away on Thursday, April 7, 2022, at CarePartners Hospice Solace Center (JF Keever).

Maxine was a native of Haywood County and a daughter of the late Boyce McCracken and Ruby Gertrude Wiggins Stuart.  Maxine enjoyed spending time with her family.

She is survived by four sons, Jack and Jeff Bowman, Kevin Arrington (Lisa) and Robbie Arrington; three sisters, Lois Oxendine, Alma Hord, and Claudette Swan; three grandchildren, Matt Bowman (Ashley), Tyler Arrington, and Tyler Ferguson (Ashley); and two great-grandchildren, Gracie and Rylee.

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Antonio Royal - October 02, 1973 - April 06, 2022

Departed: 04/06/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Asheville – Demarcus Antonio “Smoke” Royal, 48, passed away on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 at Mission Memorial Campus.

Smoke was a native of Crisp County, Georgia and a son of the late Betty Henton Royal. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Jamari Antonio Royal, who died in 2014.

He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Lynette Stanley Royal; one daughter, Nyasia Branton; son, Darius Davontae Royal; one sister, Charlotte Tolbert (Eddie) of Asheville; two brothers, Wilburn Royal (Samantha) of Florida and Curtt Royal of Georgia; one granddaughter, Dariana Nyzae Sky Royal; aunt, Beatrice Lawson; uncle, Jimmie Henton; mother-in-law, Alice Stanley of Dublin, Georgia; four brothers-in-law,  Kenneth Bell, Sr., Darry Stanley, Donald (Ronell) Stanley and Chris Stanley, all of Dublin Georgia; three sisters-in-law, Sharion (Ricko) Hankins of East Dublin, Georgia, Ramonda (Amos) Buckner of McIntyre, Georgia, and Debra Randall (Tony) of Florida; close and favorite cousin, Sonya Wood of Asheville; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A visitation will be held from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 16, 2022 at Wells Funeral Home in Canton. The care of Antonio “Smoke” Royal has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Ernest William Hall - March 27, 1940 - April 05, 2022

Departed: 04/05/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Ernest William Hall, 82, passed away on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, at his residence.

Ernest was a native of and lifelong resident of Haywood County and a son of the late Branson “Brant” Broadway Hall and Ella “Ellie” Frady Hall Sanford.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Brian Bart Hall; a step-son, Shane Milner; and a brother, Reverend Douglas “Doug” Hall.  Ernest always started his day with having his devotion and reading his Bible. His favorite scripture was Proverbs 3:5-7 “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: Fear the LORD, and depart from evil.”  He was a member of Dutch Cove Baptist Church and retired from Champion International with 47 years of service where he had several years of perfect attendance.  Ernest loved wood working, gardening, flowers, fishing, camping and playing his guitar.  He was a gentle soul with unwavering patience who loved the Lord.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Juanita Liford Hall; two daughters, Vickie Wright (Jerry) of Canton and Kristie Lowe (Jimmy) of Harrison, ME; three step-daughters, Tammy Henry, Bequetta Phillips (Joe), and Leona “Buffy” Bradley, all of Canton; one step-son, Daniel Milner of Waynesville; a sister, Brenda Worley (Joe) of Canton; seventeen grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

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Dorothy Jane Clark Carter - October 05, 1933 - April 04, 2022

Departed: 04/04/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Dorothy Jane “Dot” Clark Carter, 88, passed away on Monday, April 4, 2022, at her residence.

Dorothy was a native and lifelong resident of Haywood County and a daughter of the late Ike and Eva Nelson Clark.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Curtis Malcolm Varner, Jr. who died in 1965; second husband, Ernest Melvin Carter, who died in 2002; daughter, Rhonda Warren; five brothers; three sisters; and a grandson, James Eric Singleton, who died in 2014.  Dot was a 1951 graduate of Clyde High School and a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America.  She attended Oak Grove Baptist Church.

She is survived by two daughters, Brenda Smith (Dale) and Deitra Sheppard (Brook), all of Canton; three step-daughters, Kay Free, Judy Smith and Linda Ledford; six grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 8, 2022 at Crawford/Ray Memorial Gardens with the Reverend Matt Pruett officiating. The care of Mrs. Carter has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Angela Darlene Dean - August 28, 1972 - March 31, 2022

Departed: 03/31/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton - Angela Darlene “Angie” Dean, 49, passed away on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Mission Memorial Hospital.

Angela was a native of Polk County, Florida and a daughter of the late James and Becky Caldwell Dean.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant son, Brandon Webb and a brother, Bo Conard.  Angie was a homemaker and had lived in Haywood County for the past 30 years.  She was a very compassionate, strong willed, and confident woman who was always willing to give a meal and a helping hand to anyone in need.

She is survived by a daughter, Christina Webb (Tray Sawyer), of Clyde; one sister, Teresa Stiles, of Canton; 2 nieces and 4 nephews.

A family gathering will be held from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 9, 2022 at Wells Funeral Home in Canton.

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Robert "Bob" Bartow Jones - September 15, 1929 - March 25, 2022

Departed: 03/25/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Candler – Robert Bartow “Bob” Jones, 92, passed away on Friday, March 25, 2022 at Heather Glen at Ardenwoods.

Bob was a native of Titusville, Florida and had lived in Candler for more than 50 years.  He was the son of the late William Roy and Gladys Amelia Gardner Jones.  He was also preceded in death by his wife, Helen White Jones, who died in 2006.

Bob was employed by Eckerd Drugs as a pharmacist and held several management positions from 1961 – 1994.  He was an active member of the Enka Lions Club for 25 years where he held several different positions including two terms as club president.  After graduating high school in Fort Myers, Florida at the age of 16, Bob served in the U. S. Army from 1946 – 1948 spending the entire year of 1947 in Korea prior to the war.  Afterward he utilized the GI bill to attend the University of Florida and graduated in 1952 with a degree in Pharmacy.  Shortly thereafter he met his future wife, Helen White Jones, and started a family in 1955 of two sons and a daughter.  Bob was an avid college sports fan and closely followed all Gator sports as well as N. C. Tarheel basketball.  He loved the outdoors and spent many hours roaming and maintaining his property in Candler.

He is survived by two sons, Robert Micheal Jones (Mary) of Boca Raton, Florida and Stephen B. Jones of Durham; a daughter, Carol Elaine Jones of Candler; a grandson, Andrew M. Jones of Boca Raton, Florida; and a brother, James Thomas Jones (Retired USAF Colonel) of San Antonio, Texas.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at Piney Mountain United Methodist Church Cemetery with Chaplain Colby Truesdell officiating.  Military rites will be conducted by the United States Army.

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Keith Arnold Clark - April 20, 1966 - March 24, 2022

Departed: 03/24/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Candler – Keith Arnold Clark, 55, passed away on March 24, 2022.

Keith was a native of Buncombe County and a son of the late Oliver and Dorothy Emline King Clark. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Billy and two sisters, Kim and Deborah. Keith was an amazing avid hunter, a fish whisperer and loved camping and being an outdoorsman all of his life.

Keith is survived by the love his life, Barbara Diane Rathbone, of Candler; his stepdaughter, Krystal Denise Lambert; a sister, Edna Barrett (Edward), of Candler; several nephews, Jamie, Nathan, Kyle, and Matthew; nieces, Christy, Brooke; and Tonya Boydston (Michael); and a great niece, Bailey Barrett.  Keith was loved and will be missed by so many. The care of Mr. Clark has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Dorothy Jane "Dot" Morris - June 29, 1928 - March 23, 2022

Departed: 03/23/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Dorothy Jane Leatherwood “Dot” Morris, 93, passed away on Wednesday, March 23, 2022 at Silver Bluff Nursing Home.

A native and lifelong resident of Haywood County, she was the daughter of the late H. D. and Willie Medford Leatherwood.  She was also preceded in death by her husband, Bill Morris, who died in 2009; a brother, Jerry Leatherwood; and a sister, Betty Haynes.  Dot was a graduate of Clyde High School and a member of First United Methodist Church of Canton.  She was a receptionist for Dr. Carey Wells and later for Dr. Albert Cline.

She is survived by two daughters, Darlene Shipman and Janice Plemmons of Canton; a son, James “Jimmy” Morris and his wife, Lisa, of Bethel; eight grandchildren, Kristen Rhinehart, Veronica Puls, Andy Plemmons, Leah Stephenson, Savannah Pope, Luke Worley, Daniel Worley and Levi Morris; and four great-grandchildren, Dakota Scott, Skyler McMillion, Bethany Barton and Nicholas Barton.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at Bon-A-Venture Cemetery, Old Clyde Road.  The family will receive friends from 12:45 until 1:30 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

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Glenda Lee Sheppard - May 08, 1935 - March 19, 2022

Departed: 03/19/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Glenda Lee Berry Sheppard, 86, passed away on Saturday, March 19, 2022, at her residence.

Glenda was born in Macon County and the daughter of the late Roy and Bonnie Allen Berry.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Betty Caldwell, and brother, Frank Berry.  Glenda was a homemaker, mother and nana, a member of West Canton Baptist Church, and a 1953 graduate of Waynesville Township High School.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Max Dale Sheppard; daughter, Bronwyn Burleson (Jimmy) of Candler; two sons, Brook Sheppard (Deitra) of Canton and Mike Pignato (Suzanne) of Asheville; sister, Shirley Lewis (Jack) of Maggie Valley; and six grandchildren, Kayla Sheppard, Kirstyn Burleson, Jay Burleson (Katie); Andrew Pignato (Rachel), Elizabeth Pignato, and Grant Pignato; two great grandchildren, Senate Pignato and Layla Jane; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 22, 2022 at Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery with the Reverend Matt Pruett and Reverend Jeff Holder officiating.  The family will receive friends following the graveside service at the cemetery.

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Carther Lessel Liverman III - July 27, 1955 - March 15, 2022

Departed: 03/15/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Asheville - Carther “Buddy” Lessel Liverman III, 66, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 at Mission Memorial Campus.

Buddy is survived by his loving wife, Margie Liverman, of 30 happy years; his mother, Maxine Liverman, to whom was her joy; sister, Robyn Riddle (Mike Riddle) who always thought he was a Rock Star; nephew, Jimmie Buckner (Justine Seymore), who looked up to Buddy for all of his talents; loving niece, Morgan Rogers and her so cute son, Wyatt.

Buddy was a wonderful husband, son, brother, brother-in-law, and uncle.  He had more faith than anyone we know and brought Margie closer to God.  Buddy played music with a rock band called Straight Ahead. He loved his talented musician friends.  Playing music with them was a special time in his life.  Buddy had wonderful friends and an amazing life and never complained about his daily struggles.

He was proud to be an employee of Rockwell International for two years.  Buddy retired from the Industries for the Blind after working for 23 years.  Buddy loved Jesus, his family, friends, food, trains, travel, and music.  He had a sense of humor like no other.

Buddy may have been blind, but he saw more than most.  He will be remembered for the joy he brought to so many.

At Buddy’s request, no services are planned. The care of Mr. Liverman has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Darlene Sanford - July 31, 1947 - March 14, 2022

Departed: 03/14/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Darlene Baker Sanford, 74, passed away on Monday, March 14, 2022 at Mission Memorial Campus.

Darlene was a native and lifelong resident of Haywood County and a daughter of the late Robert Vincent and Betty McElrath Baker.  She was also a lifelong member of West Canton Baptist Church where she served on the fellowship committee.  Darlene sold Mary Kay Cosmetics for 15 years and enjoyed crafts and gardening.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Woodrow “Woody” Wilson Sanford; three sons, Hugh Brian Sanford and Lori, Kenneth Brett Sanford, and Dennis Brad Sanford and Tim Riddle; two sisters, Robyn Burnette and Danny of Canton, and Dianne Jarjoura and John of Hampton, Virginia; and three grandchildren, Morgan, Madison, and Ethan Sanford.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at West Canton Baptist Church with the Reverend Jeff Holder officiating.  The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church. The care of Mrs. Sanford has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Reverend Wayne Carson - May 09, 1939 - March 09, 2022

Departed: 03/09/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Leicester – Reverend Roger Wayne Carson, 82, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, March 9, 2022 at Silver Bluff Nursing Home.

Wayne was a native of Haywood County and a son of the late Paul Wayne and Elizabeth Trantham Carson.  Wayne retired from Champion International in 1995 with 36 years of service and was a member of Waterfalls Baptist Church.  He was a curator for the Canton Museum for four years and loved hiking, researching the history of Champion, Town of Canton, and Sunburst.

Wayne started preaching in 1983 where he pastored five churches; two were in Cherokee, Macedonia for ten years, Fellowship for six years, twice at Faith, and Waterfalls for two years.  The “Living for Jesus” broadcast on WPTL radio station was hosted by Wayne since 1983.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Peggy Willis Carson; two daughters, Towyna Campbell and her fiancé, Robert Bloom, and Jan Cox and husband, Tim; two sons, Stacy Carson and wife, Amy, and Travis Carson and wife, Deniece, all of Leicester; one brother, Bruce Carson and wife, Joyce, of South Carolina; eleven grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren.

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Charlene McElroy - October 27, 1958 - March 09, 2022

Departed: 03/09/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Ruby Charlene Devlin McElroy, 63, passed away on Wednesday, March 9, 2022 at her residence.

Charlene was a native and lifelong resident of Haywood County and a daughter of the late Charles Clifford and Ruby Lee Devlin.  She loved her tropical fish, reading, and growing flowers.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years, John McElroy; daughter Pamela Simmons and husband, Jonah, of Lawndale; one sister, Peggy Barrett; and two grandchildren, Nikki Potter and Emily Simmons.

At Charlene’s request no services will be held. The care of Mrs. McElroy has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Betty Sellers - January 22, 1932 - March 09, 2022

Departed: 03/09/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Betty Clark Sellers, 90, passed away on Wednesday, March 9, 2022 at Mission Memorial Campus.

Betty was a native and lifelong resident of Haywood County and a daughter of the late James Issac and Eva Nelson Clark.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Chester A. Sellers, who died in 2006; three brothers, one sister, three half-brothers, and one half-sister.

Betty was a wonderful homemaker and a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt.  She attended Pisgah Free Will Baptist Church.

She is survived by a son, Baron “Rocky” Sellers and wife, Elaine, of Cruso; one sister, Dorothy “Dot” Carter of Canton; two grandchildren, Brandan Sellers and Stephanie Warren and husband, Travis, all of Cruso; and four great-grandchildren, Lily, Tyler, Carsen, and Gracen.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 13, 2022 at New Cruso Cemetery with the Reverend Jeremy Cagle officiating.  The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:15 p.m. prior to the service at Wells Funeral Home in Canton.

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Willard Burnett Worley - November 15, 1938 - March 07, 2022

Departed: 03/07/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Swannanoa - Willard Burnett Worley, 83, passed away on Monday, March 7, 2022, at the Charles George Veterans Medical Center in Asheville. Born November 15, 1938, in Haywood County, North Carolina, Willard was a son of the late Clifford Madison Worley and Artha Gentry Worley.  In addition to his parents, Willard was also predeceased by his sister, Judy Pate

Willard, a winning pitcher for his Canton Little League team, joined the Navy at 17 years old after finally convincing his father to give consent. He served on three aircraft carriers: The Independence, The Forrestal, and the JFK. Those assignments took him to the Philippines, the Mediterranean during the Six Day War in 1967, and Spain in 1969, to name a few. Having served for 21 years, Willard was honorably discharged in 1972.

Surviving him are a daughter, Susan Littlefield (James) of Greensboro, NC; two sisters Ruth Payne (Glen) and Sarah Phillips (Dennis) both of Candler, NC; brother-in-law George Pate; two nephews Jeff Payne (Becky) of Raleigh, NC, and Terry Pate of Black Mountain; two nieces Janet Lyles and Tamra (Darren) Gilbert, both of Swannanoa, NC; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 12, 2022 at Bon-A-Venture Cemetery in Canton with the Reverend Roger Smith officiating.

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Gwendolyn Hutchison - November 18, 1923 - March 07, 2022

Departed: 03/07/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Clyde - Gwendolyn Haynes Hutchison, 98, passed away March 7, 2022 at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC.

Gwen was a native of Haywood County and was the daughter of James Orville and Vera Holland Haynes. She graduated from Clyde High School, class of 1941, and attended Coker College (now University) in Hartsville, SC, where she earned a BA in English, class of 1945. In 1946 she married William Franklin Hutchison in Atlanta Georgia, where she worked at Rich’s department store before the couple moved to Charlotte, NC to raise a family. After retirement, they returned to Haywood County.

Gwen was a caring and dedicated homemaker and mother. She had a quiet dignity and happy grace, marked by love and an enduring faith. She loved her family, and had an affection for wildflowers, reading, and gardening. She was kind toward others, tender-hearted, and gentle. She was a joyful member of the First Presbyterian Church of Waynesville, NC.

She was preceded in death by an infant son, Paul, and an infant daughter, Susan, her husband, William of 68 years, and three brothers; Kenneth, Perry, and Gene Haynes. She is survived by one daughter, Ann Hutchison Carson of Harrisburg, NC; two sons, Michael Haynes Hutchison (Janet) of Matthews, NC, and James Lee Hutchison (Paula) of the home; three grandchildren, Kristin Carson Krumpos (James Steven) of Tucson, AZ, William Paul Hutchison of Charlotte, NC, and James Ian Hutchison, United States Navy; and two great-grandchildren, Carson James and Abigail Jean Krumpos. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Waynesville Welcome Home Building Campaign, 305 N. Main St., Waynesville, NC 28786. Phone 828-456-3243. Email office@fpcwaynesville.org The care of Mrs. Hutchison has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Phillip Parks Allen - January 11, 1937 - March 04, 2022

Departed: 03/04/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – Phillip Parks Allen, 85, was born on January 11, 1937. He died on March 4, 2022 at home after a long illness.

A native of Buncombe County, he was preceded in death by his father, Paul Hamilton Allen and mother, Winifred Parks Allen and a brother, Paul Hamilton Allen of Haywood County.

In retirement, he grafted numerous heritage apple varieties and established an orchard near his home. Apples, watermelon, tomatoes, rhododendron and children were his favorite things.  As an avid sportsman who shared his love of nature, travel, and wildlife, he and two close friends hand-built a cabin on Hurricane Creek that he shared for decades with generations of friends and family. A member of Rockwood United Methodist Church, Mr. Allen served on disaster relief building teams, directed, with his wife, the Mountain Top Emmaus community kitchen, volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and built private homes including his family home.  A veteran of the U.S. Army, he served in the North Carolina National Guard during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He worked in industry at Champion Papers as an electrician for 35 years retiring in 1994.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Estelena Robinson Allen, a daughter, Clara Allen Curtis (David) of Clyde, a son, Roy Allen (Dawn) of Clyde, two granddaughters, Ellen Anne Yanik (John) of Nashville, Tennessee and Emma Curtis Ryan (Kevin) of Los Angeles, California, one brother Gedwin Allen (Barbara), Canton, N.C. and one great grandson.

Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 7, 2022, in the Canton Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the Reverend Eric Hill and Reverend Don Turman officiating.  The family will receive friends from 12:15 until 1:45 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.  Burial will follow at Clarks Chapel Cemetery, Crabtree Mountain Road.

Memorials may be directed to Rockwood United Methodist Church, 288 Crabtree Mountain Road, Canton, NC  28716 or The North Carolina Arboretum, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806. The care of Mr. Allen has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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Richard William Farmer - September 28, 1927 - March 04, 2022

Departed: 03/04/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Richard W. Farmer

Canton, Richard William Farmer, 94, passed away on March 4, 2022 at Memorial Mission Hospital.

A native and lifelong resident of Haywood County, he was the son of the late Dewey Elijah and Christine Sisk Farmer.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Eleen Pressley Farmer, who died November 4, 2020; a brother, Leonard Farmer; and three sisters, Tulon Berry, Irene Murr and Vera Melican.  Richard was a proud US Navy veteran, having served on the USS Macon during World War II.  He worked at Champion International for 42 years, retiring in 1992.  Richard simply loved life and being outdoors, especially during turkey hunting season and spent countless hours on his hobby of making turkey box calls to share with family and friends.  But, whether he was singing with the choir or singing solos at his church, Richard was most happy when singing or humming a Christian melody.  He dearly loved his family and talked about his wife, children, and grandchildren with great pride and joy.  He will be missed.

Richard is survived by three sons, Ronald Farmer and his wife, Peggy, of Waynesville, Douglas Farmer, of Canton; and Dean Farmer and his wife, Karen, of Killen, Alabama; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and six great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 9, 2022 at Beulah Baptist Church of Canton, of which he was a member.  The Reverend Barry Clark will officiate.  Burial will follow at Spring Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 12:30 until 1:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church.

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John Allen Halling - August 06, 1928 - March 03, 2022

Departed: 03/03/2022 (Canton)

Obituary Preview: Canton – John Allen Halling, 93, passed away on Thursday, March 3, 2022.

John was a native of Minnesota and a son of the late Carl Victor and Susanna Mary Franzen Halling.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Carl John Halling, who died in 2014 and sister, Donna.  John was a United States Army veteran.

He is survived by his wife, Judith Ellen Tyrell Halling; a daughter, Laura Dunstan of Charlotte; and four grandchildren.

At John’s request, no services are planned at this time. The care of Mr. Halling has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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• Proven track record of delivering excellent and professional services

• Proficient team guided by compassion and respect

• Full range of funeral options to choose from, including cremation and green burials

• Personalized memorial service that truly represents the life lived

Funeral Services Offered

Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services offers an array of distinct services tailored to meet different cultural and religious preferences. From traditional funeral services to cremations, they know how to coordinate it all seamlessly.

• Traditional Funeral Service

• Graveside Funeral Service

• Immediate Cremation

• Green Burials

• Memorial Services

Planning a Funeral with Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services

It's an overwhelming task to plan a funeral while struggling with a loss, but Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services makes it manageable.

Consultation

The process begins with a compassionate consultation where the skilled staff aid you in selecting the most suitable type of service.

Fulfillment of Legal Process

They also take care of all the legal procedures which are needed before, during, and after the funeral.

Customization

The funeral service can be personalized according to the wishes of deceased or the family.

Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services Example:

Suppose you want to plan a traditional funeral service for your lost dedicated one. Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services will guide you with the whole process. It starts with an initial consultation where you can share any special request which you may want to include in the service. They will then assist with the selection of a suitable casket or urn and choose the suitable floral arrangements. On the day of the service, professional staff members will ensure everything goes as planned while lending emotional support to the bereaved family members.

Remember, the farewell we give to our dearest departed isn't just about rites and rituals, but about how we pay our last respects and honor their life. Wells Funeral Home & Cremation Services walks hand-in-hand with you through this difficult journey, making sure every detail is handled with care and respect. Hopefully, this guide has furnished you with useful information. Feel free to explore our site for more guides. If you found this article helpful, please do share it with others in need.