Wells Funeral Homes and Cremation Services - Candler, Forest Lawn

08/02/2025

Phillip Dwane Kent

Phillip Dwane Kent, a beloved member of his community, passed away peacefully at home on July 28, 2025, at the age of 62. Born on February 4, 1963, in Buncombe, Phillip was known for his multi-talented personality and open heart. As the owner of Kent Heating and Cooling, he took immense pride in his work and approached each day with dedication that earned him the respect and admiration of many.

A true friend to all, Phillip was always ready with a helping hand. His passions extended beyond his profession; he had a love for fishing and spent countless hours nurturing his beautiful flowers, particularly his cherished gladiolas. A family man at heart, Phillip valued his relationships and took pride in being a devoted father and grandfather.

Growing up, Phillip attended Pisgah Baptist Church with his family, where he formed many lasting friendships and cherished memories.

Phillip is survived by his father, Roy William Kent; his mother, Irene Carolina Warren Kent; his daughters, Felicia Kent and Jessica Kent; and his sister, Pamela Smiley, who is married to Kevin Smiley. He leaves behind a Niece Melissa Smiley and Nephew Michael Smiley, six grandchildren, Jayden Remmes, Lillian Roberts, Leah Roberts, Laci Roberts, Christopher Remmes, and Livi Roberts. Phillip's family was his proudest accomplishment, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Paul Kent Sr. and Mary Kent, his uncle, Paul Kent Jr., and his niece, Michele Smiley.

A visitation will take place at the Chapel of Faith at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Candler, North Carolina, on August 6, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. A funeral service will follow, beginning at 2:00 PM, with Reverend Katrina Evans officiating. Burial will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park at 2:45 PM.

Phillip Dwane Kent's legacy of kindness and hard work will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched throughout his journey.

The care of Phillip Dwane Kent has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Candler and an online memorial register is available at "Obituaries" at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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07/24/2025

07/18/2025

Bea B. Fordham

Bea M. Fordham, born on January 23, 1944, in Little River, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, in Asheville, NC. Bea lived a vibrant life in New York City, where she pursued her passion for education and culture. She graduated with a Bachelor's degree in education and was honored to graduate as the Valedictorian of her high school.

For over 20 years, Bea dedicated her career working in Personnel Management and designing international seminars on the United Nations that brought people together from around the globe. Her bright personality and strong will made a significant impact on those around her.

In addition to her impressive professional accomplishments, Bea cherished her love for music. She enjoyed playing the piano and various musical instruments, always sharing her joy of music with family and friends.

Bea is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Benjamin Fordham; her brother, Charles Baxter; and her sons, Andrew Fordham and Benjamin Fordham III. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Joe Baxter and Bill Baxter.

Bea's legacy of kindness and passion for life will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life will be held by family at a later date.

The family has trusted Wells Funeral Home with the care of Bea M. Fordham.

View Bea B. Fordham's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/27/2025

Dewey Ray Barbee

Dewey Ray Barbee, born on May 28, 1942, in Cullman, Alabama, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025, at the Solace Center, with his loving wife by his side. His journey through life was characterized by devotion, passion, and a zest for the simple joys that life offers.

Dewey dedicated many years of his life to his career, notably retiring from his position as a groundworker at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. His commitment to his work reflected an unwavering dedication that he carried into every aspect of his life.

A true car enthusiast, Dewey cherished the moments spent at local Cruise-ins, showcasing his classic car with pride. These gatherings were not merely events for him; they were celebrations of camaraderie and passion that brought together fellow enthusiasts. Beyond cars, he found joy in fishing and bowling.

Family was at the heart of Dewey's existence. He was blessed with a loving wife, Jenny Parris Barbee, with whom he shared 51 wonderful years of marriage. Their bond was a testament to love, partnership, and enduring friendship. In addition to his beloved wife, Dewey is survived by his cherished sisters, Mary Lou Plemmons, Fay Hyatt, and Linda Hyatt, as well as his brothers Jerry Barbee (Nell) and Terry Barbee (Karen). He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Dewey’s legacy is one of love and connection, marked by the enduring relationships he cherished deeply. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Charles Barbee and William Barbee, who will be remembered alongside him as a part of his rich family tapestry.

As we remember Dewey Ray Barbee, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with love, smiles, laughter, and a profound appreciation for the beauty of the everyday moments. His spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him, reminding us of the importance of family, friendship, and the simple joys that life brings.

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06/26/2025

Steven Lane Lance

Steven Lane Lance passed away June 20, 2025, at his home after a long illness.

Steve was an avid hunter and fisherman. His favorite places to fish were around Hartwell, S. C. Steve retired from the Norfolk/Southern Railway after more than 30 years of dedicated work.

Steve was of the Baptist faith. No service is planned at this time.

Steve is survived by his Mother; Myra Ramsey and 3 grandchildren, Kaley, Charlie and London Cove. Steve's father, Billy L. Lance, daughter, Tiffany Nicole Cove, and brother, Randall Lance predeceased him.

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06/20/2025

David Gene London

David Gene London, born on June 20, 1955, in Hartford, Connecticut, left this world on June 13, 2025, in Candler, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and commitment to his work and community.

David was a respected mechanic for the city government, where he devoted a significant portion of his life ensuring that the vehicles and machinery essential for public service were well maintained and operational. Through his skilled hands and meticulous approach, he contributed to the smooth functioning of city affairs, earning the respect of colleagues and citizens alike.

His memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know him. A service will be held by family at a later date.

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06/18/2025

Ralph "Jack" Jackson Hensley

Ralph Jackson “Jack” Hensley, 92, of Asheville passed away on June 17, 2025, at Pardee Hospital in Hendersonville, NC following a brief illness. He was the son of the late Max Edney and Hassie Mae Hensley. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jane Payne Hensley, brother, Ben Hensley, and sister, Sarah Maxine Sutfin.

Survivors include his children James Donald Hensley of the home, Gary Jackson Hensley and wife Doris of Marshall, Anita Mae Lamm and husband Mickey of Four Oaks; two grandchildren, Sarah Sands and husband Philip of Scotland, and Rachael A. Yefko of Four Oaks; great-grandchildren, Blaine Stephen Yefko, Daniel “Danny” Crowe Sands, Ava Lynn Pulley and Matilda “Tilley” Mae Sands. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Jack was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a US Army Veteran and a 60-year member of the Masonic Masons of Nichols-West Asheville Lodge No. 650. He was also a dedicated member of the Land of The Sky Shrine Club, part of the Oasis Shrine in Charlotte, NC, for 25 years. Ralph served as a Shriner Tripster, along with Betty, transporting children to Shriner hospitals. They also worked together at Shriner fundraising events in Marshall and Mars Hill.

Jack was a retired truck driver. He enjoyed time with his family, volunteering, watching sports, gardening with his granddaughters in the summer or tending to his lawn.

Jack also loved to feed his pigeons, had a soft spot for animals and rescued several cats, grew the best grapes, kept bees for many years and always had jars of his own honey. The granddaughters always looked forward to going with him and Granny to help at the Shriners horse show in Marshall every summer. Jack had a great sense of humor and could make almost anyone laugh.

The family appreciates the support from his fellow Shriners.

A graveside service will be held at 1 o'clock in the afternoon on Monday, June 23rd at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Candler, NC.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: The Masonic Home for Children at Oxford, 600 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565 or Shriners Hospitals for Children, Attn: Office of Philanthropy, PO Box 1525, Ransom, WV 25438.

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06/17/2025

Carl Allen Richardson

Carl Allen Richardson, a vibrant beacon of light in the lives he touched, passed from this world on May 26, 2025, in Livermore, California. Born on January 26, 1987, in Norwich, New York, Carl was a man of remarkable energy and depth, whose spirit was as lively as the melodies he cherished.

Throughout his time on Earth, Carl was many things: a dedicated laboratory engineer at the Lawrence Livermore Federal Laboratory, an adventurer with a thirst for adrenaline, and a devoted musician who poured his heart into every instrument he embraced. His career began with his hands guiding technology on cell phone towers, but it was music that truly made his heart soar. From the halls of his high school jazz band to the soulful notes that echoed throughout his life, Carl’s love for music was unwavering, a backdrop to the rhythm of his existence.

He was the kind of person who lit up the room, striking a balance between intellect and an infectious joy that drew people together. Carl loved wholeheartedly, whether it was playing board games with friends, zooming past on the open roads in his beloved Mustang, or simply sharing laughter with family and friends. He navigated life with an adventurous spirit, even spending time as a foreign exchange student in Siberia, Russia, a testament to his curious nature and love for new experiences.

Carl's legacy will live on through his cherished family members. He is survived by his parents, Priscilla and James McGarvey, along with his sisters: Sasha McGarvey (Otto Muller), Jessica Pierce, Cassandra Ray, and Danielle Delia. He also leaves behind his brothers, Scott Richardson, Geoff Richardson, and Shane McGarvey, and his grandfather, Jim McLaughlin. The joyous sound of family will linger on in the hearts of his nieces and nephews—Emmet "Wolf," Bayard, Keegan, and Ty—as well as his uncles Samuel Nelson (Betsy), Stephen Nelson, Daniel Nelson, and Brian Nelson (Kristen), and cousins Casey and Cooper.

Carl was preceded in death by his biological father, Kenneth Richardson; grandmother, Peggy McLaughlin; and cousin, Katie Nelson. Though he may have departed this earthly realm, his spirit will forever resonate in the gatherings of his loved ones, where laughter and music intertwine in his memorable style.

A memorial service to honor the life of Carl Richardson will be announced at a later date.

In every beat and note of the life he lived, Carl Allen Richardson will always be remembered as the heart that brought exuberance to each moment, an eternal melody that will continue to play in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

The care of Mr. Richardson has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Candler.

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06/11/2025

Cheryl Kellam Brackett

Cheryl Kellam Brackett, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother, made her journey to rest on June 7, 2025, in Candler, NC. Born on June 21, 1959, in Asheville, NC, Cheryl was a beacon of light to everyone around her. Her life was characterized by her unwavering kindness, patience, and compassion, traits that endeared her to friends and family alike.

As the owner and operator of a professional cleaning service, Cheryl dedicated her work to creating tidy spaces, reflecting the care she extended to her loved ones. She had also contributed her skills at Mountain Mobility and the Neil Dobbins Center, where her commitment to service shined through.

Cheryl was not only a hardworking professional but also a devoted mother. Her two daughters, Lisa and Mandy, were the centers of her world. She nurtured them with unwavering support, actively participating in their lives and providing a steady foundation as they navigated their own journeys. Her deep love for them was matched only by her joy in spending time with family, sharing stories that brought warmth and laughter to their gatherings.

The love Cheryl cultivated extended beyond her immediate family. She cherished her 4 grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. Cheryl delighted in the role of grandmother, creating memories filled with joy and love that her grandchildren will carry with them forever.

Cheryl often enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, finding comfort in her favorite television shows like The Price is Right and NCIS. She possessed a welcoming spirit that drew people to her, making her home a refuge where everyone felt accepted and cherished.

She is survived by her daughters, Lisa Mace Drummond of Candler and Mandy Mace (Ramón Lanza) of Arden; her beloved grandchildren, DeMarcus Harper of Black Mountain, Desirae Harper of Franklin, and Kaison & Kamiah Drummond of Candler; her sister, Sharon K. Bradley of Bethpage, TN; her nephews, Shawn and Chris Bradley; and a host of great-nieces and great-nephews who carry on her legacy of kindness.

Cheryl was predeceased by her parents, Currie Milton Kellam and Dixie Hensley Wright, who surely welcomed her with open arms. As we remember Cheryl, let us honor the incredible woman she was, one who touched countless lives with her gentle spirit and unfaltering love. She leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories that will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate the life of Cheryl Kellam Brackett will be announced by the family at a later date.

The care of Ms. Brackett has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Candler.

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