Wells Funeral Homes Inc & Cremation Services - Waynesville

Wells Funeral Homes Inc & Cremation Services - Waynesville Wells Funeral Homes have been providing compassionate funeral services in Canton, Waynesville, and n

Chuck G. BeemerCharles Gordon (Chuck) Beemer, of Waynesville, N.C., died peacefully on July 31, 2025. He was 85.Chuck wa...
08/02/2025

Chuck G. Beemer

Charles Gordon (Chuck) Beemer, of Waynesville, N.C., died peacefully on July 31, 2025. He was 85.

Chuck was born on May 30, 1940 in Crawfordsville, Indiana to Julia and Gordon Beemer. He was the valedictorian of his class at Crawfordsville High School in 1958. Chuck studied at Wesleyan University before graduating Phi Beta Kappa from Colorado College in 1962, where he was a member of the golf team and Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He earned an M.A. in History from the University of Wisconsin in 1964 and completed further study towards a Ph.D. in History at Northwestern University. He received a J.D. from the University of North Carolina in 1974. Chuck practiced law for twenty-three years in Chapel Hill, N.C. at Beemer, Savery & Hadler, PA (now Beemer Hadler & Willett, PA). After Chuck and his wife Nancy moved to Waynesville, N.C. in 1997, Chuck had a successful solo law practice for nine years before he retired in 2006.

During retirement, Chuck fulfilled a lifelong dream to write a book about a historical figure from his hometown, Civil War Maj. Gen. Lew Wallace, who is best known as the author of the novel Ben-Hur. After several years of meticulous research, Chuck examined Wallace’s controversial command at the Battle of Shiloh in his book My Greatest Quarrel with Fortune: Major General Lew Wallace in the West, 1861-1862, which was published by The Kent State University Press in 2015. He also served as a Deacon at Hazelwood Baptist Church in Waynesville, the Program Chair for the Western North Carolina Civil War Roundtable, and a member of the Scholars Board at the General Lew Wallace Study and Museum in Crawfordsville.

Chuck will be remembered as being smart, hard working, generous, and kind. He enjoyed watching the Indiana Hoosiers play basketball, the Chicago Cubs, and golf. He was proud of his grandchildren, Luke and Cate, and all of their accomplishments. He loved listening to Nancy play the piano and organ. He was a lover of reading and travel. He enjoyed meeting and entertaining people. He was happiest when he was in the presence of his family and friends.

Chuck was preceded in death by his wife of 32 years, Nancy Dolwick Beemer, and daughter, Jennifer Lynn Beemer. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Beemer; son Jeff (Catherine) Beemer of Nashville, TN; grandchildren Luke Beemer and Cate Beemer; brother Michael Beemer of Evanston, IL; nieces Leslie (Steve) Wegner of Los Gatos, CA and Kathleen (Kurt) Stevens of Chicago, IL; nephew Robert (Julie) Beemer of Sherman Oaks, CA; and stepdaughters Carolyn Fountaine of Atlanta, GA and Terri (John) Downing of Maggie Valley, N.C.

A visitation for Chuck will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. EDT at Hazelwood Baptist Church in Waynesville. A funeral service will follow at noon with Dr. Mike Odom officiating. A graveside service will follow at Garrett-Hillcrest Cemetery in Waynesville. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts in memory of Chuck be made to Hazelwood Baptist Church, 65 Hazelwood Avenue, Waynesville, NC 28786.

The care of Mr. Beemer has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.

View Chuck G. Beemer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Ethel Lee PayneEthel Lee Payne, 91, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, at Baptist Easley Hospital. She was born on...
07/28/2025

Ethel Lee Payne

Ethel Lee Payne, 91, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, at Baptist Easley Hospital. She was born on March 25, 1934, in Haywood County, North Carolina. Daughter of the late Wrickman Ledford and Nellie Price Ledford.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 52 years, Dale Payne. Ethel also mourned the loss of her daughter Betty Ledbetter, as well as her sons Bobby Joe Payne and Kenneth Ray Payne, along with three sisters. Each of these individuals held a special place in her heart, and she will be remembered for her unwavering love and strength in the face of loss.

As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Ethel took immense pride in her family. She is survived by her daughters Teresa Hawthorne (Ronnie) and Debra Richard (Nick), son Casey Payne (Shirley) who carry forth her legacy of kindness and resilience. She also leaves behind her brothers Johnny Ledford and Calvin Ledford, who will remember her fondly. Ethel's familial pride was evident in her 15 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild, all of whom were her greatest accomplishments and sources of joy.

Ethel devoted her career to working as a cook and dietitian, where she significantly impacted the lives of those she served. Her commitment to nourishing others extended beyond her profession; it reflected her loving nature and desire to care for those around her. Ethel’s hobbies and interests included gardening, canning, quilting, reading, and engaging in word search puzzles and coloring. These activities not only brought her personal satisfaction but also fostered connections with her family, especially as she shared her love for these crafts with her grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville on Wednesday July 30th, 2025, at 2 O’clock in the afternoon. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral service.

Burial will follow at Fines Creek Memorial Baptist Church Cemetery.

The care of Ethel Lee Payne has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.

View Ethel Lee Payne's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

07/24/2025
Leonard Carroll FishLeonard Carroll Fish, 79, of Clyde, N.C., went home to be with the Lord on July 19, 2025. His family...
07/23/2025

Leonard Carroll Fish

Leonard Carroll Fish, 79, of Clyde, N.C., went home to be with the Lord on July 19, 2025. His family prayed with him and said their goodbyes the night before at CarePartners Hospice Solace Center in Asheville, N.C.

Leonard was a Haywood County native and one of 6 children of the late Reverend Odie and Marguerite (Messer) Fish. In 1966, Leonard began his service to our country as an Army mechanic in Vietnam. After his return, he married his wife, (late) Nancy Fish, in 1969, — together, they raised their two daughters, Melinda Davis and (late) Andrea Fish, in Clyde, N.C.

His bravery, determination, and unwavering faith in God live on through Melinda and her three children, Lidia Clinger, Macey Tanjuatco, and Locke Davis. From building his own house to polishing his three prized 1960s Mustangs — there wasn’t a project too extensive or challenging for Leonard to take on. As an avid Tar Heel fan, he cheered on his granddaughters during their dance team days at UNC Chapel Hill. He never missed a Tuscola football game when his grandson played from 2017 to 2021. When Leonard gave you his word, he wouldn’t let you down — he led by example with his steadfast commitment to his family.

In addition to his youngest daughter, Melinda (husband, Raife Davis and their three children), Leonard is survived by his siblings, Olene James, Jean Fish Fincher (husband, Mike Shuler), Darlene Williams (husband, Hugh Williams) and his brother, Ronald Fish. He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy, in 2009, his brother, Dale Fish, in 2009 and his eldest daughter, Andrea, in 2014.

Please join the family for a visitation at Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville, N.C., on Thursday, July 24, at noon, with a funeral service following at 1 p.m. A graveside service with Soldiers of the Army Veterans Honor Guard will follow at Garrett-Hillcrest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please share your favorite memory and/or photo of Leonard here on his obituary page.

The care of Leonard Fish has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.

View Leonard Carroll Fish's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Joan Elizabeth RobbJoan Elizabeth Robb, a radiant spirit and devoted matriarch, was born on March 13, 1939, in Scotland,...
07/23/2025

Joan Elizabeth Robb

Joan Elizabeth Robb, a radiant spirit and devoted matriarch, was born on March 13, 1939, in Scotland, where the echoes of her laughter and music first resonated. On July 18, 2025, surrounded by love, she transitioned to her next great adventure, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Raised in the picturesque surroundings of Edinburgh, Scotland. Joan embraced her early years with vibrant enthusiasm, earning the title of Miss Dalkeith. She ventured to the United States in 1963, with dreams that stretched as far as the horizon. Her journey took her through the bustling streets of New York and into the welcoming embrace of New Jersey where she graduated from Kathryn Gibbs school for women in business and started her family, before finally settling in North Carolina in 1977, where she became a beloved figure in Haywood County.

Joan also dedicated a significant part of her professional life to education and community service. She first served at Haywood Community College as the secretary to the AG/Bio Department for and was then the Natural Resource Office Manager after 8 years she then blossomed into a pivotal role as the Housing Director for Mountain Projects, a position she cherished for over 30 years. Even after her retirement, her commitment to helping others continued, and she remained a towering presence at Mountain Projects. Her influence reached countless lives, exemplifying her passion for community. She even helped found and was a ground breaker at the Aviemore Village apartments in Clyde.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Joan shared her exceptional gifts with the community through her acting and baking. She and her loving husband Alec made Scottish foods with their business St. Andrew’s Square Scottish Foods for 25 years. She was famous for her Scottish shortbread, winning many gold medals at the Highland Festivals and Scottish Games. A highlight of her theatrical journey was her role in the play "Miracle Worker," which garnered immense success at Haywood Community College and led to an invitation to perform at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium. Acting was a calling that she embraced wholeheartedly, even if Hollywood never came knocking.

Joan's life was laced with music, a language she spoke fluently. She had a song for every occasion and shared her lifelong passion for music with her family, creating beautiful memories through childhood nursery rhymes from her Scottish heritage. Her magical whistling brought joy to those around her, warming hearts and brightening days.

Joan was a proud member of First Presbyterian Church of Waynesville, where she worshipped alongside her husband for many years. She found delight in the simple joys of life, including playing the lottery, which added a unique sparkle to her days.

Throughout her lifetime, Joan exemplified love and resilience in her family. She is survived by her son, Alexander David Robb (Laura), along with four beloved grandsons one beloved granddaughter, six great-granddaughters, and one great-grandson, all carrying forward her spirit and zest for life. A treasured tapestry of extended family also remains to honor her memory.

Joan was preceded in death by her father, Douglas Sills; her mother, Agnes Scott; her stepfather, William Swan; her devoted husband of 64 years, Alexander McRae Robb, who passed away in 2025; her son, William Robb; her sister, Sylvia Swan; her brother, Douglas Sills; and her beloved grandson, Adam Robb. Each of these losses shaped the woman she became, deepening her empathy and love for others.

A Memorial Service celebrating Joan’s remarkable life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church of Waynesville, starting at 2:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to gather as they remember the woman whose laughter was the orchestration of a beautiful symphony of life—a woman whose spirit will forever sing in the hearts of those she touched. Joan Elizabeth Robb will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, kindness, and community will resonate for eternity.

Memorial may be made to Mountain Projects at 2177 Asheville Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786.

The care of Ms. Robb has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.

View Joan Elizabeth Robb's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

James "Jim" Morris CochranJames "Jim" Morris Cochran, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on July 18...
07/20/2025

James "Jim" Morris Cochran

James "Jim" Morris Cochran, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on July 18, 2025, at his residence. Born on January 14, 1945, in Haywood County, Jim lived a life marked by dedication to service and a deep commitment to his family.

For two decades, Jim proudly served with the Haywood County Sheriff's Department, ultimately retiring three years ago. Prior to his employment with Haywood County, Jim worked at Dayco for thirty years. He served as Vice President and Treasurerer for three terms for the Dayco Union Local 277. He received the Happy Hollow Award from the Beef Cattle Commission of WNCC for his outstanding involvement in the beef industry by serving on the board of the Haywood County Cattleman's Association. He found purpose and fulfillment in his roles, contributing to the safety and well-being of his community.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Ann Forga Cochran, who stood by his side for 64 years. Together, they nurtured a loving home that was a haven for their two daughters, Connie Bradshaw (Doug) and Sue Angel. Jim is also survived by one brother, Buddy Cochran (Janice); sister-in-law, Pat Cochran, and brother-in-law, Loye Trantham. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Travis Lanning (Lauren), Tyler Lanning (Brittany), Elizabeth Penland (Jacob), Lian Angel, and Auston Bradshaw (Savannah). Jim delighted in the joy of his eight great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and happiness. Jim also cherished his time with his nieces and nephews, whom he considered his own.

He is preceded in death by his father, Dewey Cochran, his mother, Lulabell Cochran, sister, Shirley Trantham, and brother, Bill Cochran. Jim held a profound appreciation for family, recognizing the strength and support they provided throughout his life. He often spoke of the importance of close family ties and the love that enriched their shared experiences.

There will be a Gathering of Friends and Family on Monday, July 21, 2025, at Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jim Cochran to the Haywood County Cattleman's Association Scholarship Fund at 589 Raccoon Road, Waynesville, NC 28786.

Jim Cochran will be remembered not only for his service but also for the warmth he radiated to those fortunate enough to know him. The family welcomes visitors to their residence at 95 Trantham Drive, Waynesville, NC 28786, to share in remembrance of a truly remarkable man. His spirit and love for his family will forever be cherished in their hearts.

The care of Mr. Cochran has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville and an online memorial register is available at "Obituaries" at www.wellsfuneralhome.com.

View James Morris Cochran's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Robert M. Brantly, Sr.Robert Mansfield Brantly, Sr., a respected figure and dedicated steward of Florida’s natural resou...
07/20/2025

Robert M. Brantly, Sr.

Robert Mansfield Brantly, Sr., a respected figure and dedicated steward of Florida’s natural resources, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born November 23, 1935, in Florida, Bob’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to the environment and passion for the great outdoors.

With an impressive career spanning 37 years, Bob began as a wildlife officer and worked his way up to end his career as the Executive Director for the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission, during which time he championed conservation efforts and wildlife management initiatives crucial to preserving the state’s ecological wonders. His dedication did not wane upon retirement; for an additional 17 years, he served as the Executive Secretary for the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob was a man of many loves and talents. He was an ardent woodworker. His love for nature didn’t just belong to his profession; he enjoyed fishing and hunting. An avid golfer, he once shot a hole in one. Bob’s love for his labrador retrievers, past and present, his loyal companions, was evident in the way he spent time with them, remembering them fondly in his last days.

It was the open road calling to him later in life. Together with his devoted wife, Sandy, they embarked on adventures across the United States, traveling to 49 of the 50 states in their motorhome.

He leaves behind a loving legacy through his family. His beloved wife of 47 years, Sandra Thomas Brantly, stood by him always. Together they raised 2 daughters, Kimberly D. “Kim” Wainwright and Melissa Brantly “Missy” Severson (Major Chris Severson, USMC), son Robert M. Brantly, Jr. (Donna Marie). Bob’s legacy is further adorned by 9 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren; each a testament to the love and values he imparted.

While Bob has been reunited with those who have passed before him - his father, Fred Brantly; his mother, Zoe Daniel’s Brantly, and his children, Susan Darling Riggs, and Richard L. Brantly, Sr - his spirit will forever resonate within the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Bob believed the best, expected the best and encouraged the best of all of us. If we could all go to sleep at night, having tried to be the best we can be, then we might have achieved what he wished for all of us - to leave our world better than we found it.

No formal service will be held at this time; however, a Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Bradley’s Retreat in Tallahassee, Florida from 5 to 7 PM.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies in support of the Colonel Robert M. Brantly Wildlife Officer of the Year Award and other conservation initiatives. Checks can be made payable to: Foundation for Southeastern Fish and Wildlife Agencies, and mailed to P.O. Box 646, Hartwell, GA 30643. Should you prefer to make an electronic donation, please contact the Foundation at 706-540-5031.

The care of Mr. Brantly has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville, NC. And an online register is available at “Obituaries at www.Wellsfuneralhome.com

View Robert M. Brantly, Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Dr. Larry KingsleyDr. Larry Kingsley, a beloved dentist, devoted husband, and proud veteran, passed away on July 15, 202...
07/20/2025

Dr. Larry Kingsley

Dr. Larry Kingsley, a beloved dentist, devoted husband, and proud veteran, passed away on July 15, 2025, at Haywood Regional Medical Center. He was born on October 7, 1942, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Russell and Helen Kingsley, who predeceased him.

Larry had a long and illustrious career, dedicating 34 years to his own dental practice where he was highly respected in the dental community. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Kansas State University before earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Missouri Dental School. His passion for dentistry was paralleled only by his commitment to serving his country, having proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, where he completed his dental internship and received Naval Officer training at Annapolis.

Beyond his professional achievements, Larry was known for his kind, lovingness, and generous spirit. He had a fabulous sense of humor that endeared him to his patients and colleagues alike. With a smile that could light up any room, he dedicated his life to providing care and comfort to those in need. His proudest accomplishments included serving as President of the Pinellas County Dental Society and being an officer of the West Coast Dental Society, as well as being inducted into the Academy of General Dentistry.

Larry was not only passionate about dentistry but also embraced various interests. He was an avid tennis player and an accomplished wood turner, devoting his leisure time to perfecting his crafts. A man grounded in his faith; he was a member of the Methodist Church.

He leaves behind a loving family that includes his wife of 54 years, Betty Kingsley; daughter Karen Suhadolink (Mike); son Kevin Kingsley (Elisha); sister Mary Kingsley; and brother John Kingsley (Gail). He was also the proud grandfather of four grandchildren: Logan Kingsley (Hannah), Killian Kingsley, Jack Suhadolink, and Scott Suhadolink.

A Celebration of Life for Dr. Kingsley will be held on Sunday, August 3rd, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Parkshore Grill located at 300 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to either: St. Petersburg Free Clinic at https://thespfc.org/donate/ or the MANNA Food Bank of Asheville at https://mannafoodbank.org/how-you-can-help/donate/.

Dr. Larry Kingsley will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his profession, and his country. His legacy lives on through all those whose lives he touched with his kindness and laughter.

The care of Dr. Kingsley has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville and an online memorial register is available at "Obituaries" at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

View Dr. Larry Kingsley's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Stephanie M. PetermanStephanie M. Peterman, 56, of Athens, GA, passed away on July 18, 2025.Per Stephanie’s wishes, no s...
07/18/2025

Stephanie M. Peterman

Stephanie M. Peterman, 56, of Athens, GA, passed away on July 18, 2025.

Per Stephanie’s wishes, no services are planned at this time.

The care of Stephanie has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.

View Stephanie M. Peterman's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Grant Alton ParrottGrant Alton Parrott, 87, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Monday, July 14, 2025 at the V.A. Med...
07/16/2025

Grant Alton Parrott

Grant Alton Parrott, 87, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Monday, July 14, 2025 at the V.A. Medical Center. Born on January 3, 1938 to the late Grant and Mary Ruth Medford Parrott, he is also preceeded in death by his loving wife Clara Messer Parrott, who passed away in 2021 and siblings, Joann Joseph, Johnnie Ruth Davis, Bill, Jack, Ed, and Kenneth Parrott. Although he has left this world, the impact Grant had on the lives of those he loved and the community he served remains indelible.

Grant dedicated 23 years of his life as a police officer in Haywood County, where he was respected for his integrity and compassion in service to the community he served.

A member of the 7th Day Adventist Church, Grant found joy in his faith within the congregation. His life was enriched not only through his committed service but also by his enjoyment of cherished pastimes. He had a passion for fishing and playing cards, often working with his son, Gregg Parrott.

Grant's legacy lives on through his loving family. He is survived by his son, Gregg Parrott (Michelle); his sister, Jimmie Smathers; and his grandchildren, Alex, Michael (Andrea), Seth, and Sara Parrott, as well as his great-granddaughter, Lucia Parrott, all of whom will deeply miss the love and guidance he provided throughout their lives.

A visitation to honor his life will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville, followed by a funeral service beginning at 2:00 PM in the Waynesville Chapel. Grant will then be laid to rest in a burial ceremony starting at 3:00 PM at the Garrett Hillcrest Memorial Park Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to 7th Day Adventist Church, 119 Hampshire Dr, Waynesville, NC 28786.

As we remember Grant Alton Parrott, we celebrate a life well-lived, one filled with love, service, and devotion to family and community. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.

View Grant Alton Parrott's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Elda P. JacksonElda P. Jackson, of Waynesville, went to be with our Lord on July 12, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on Oct...
07/14/2025

Elda P. Jackson

Elda P. Jackson, of Waynesville, went to be with our Lord on July 12, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on October 14, 1935, to the late Eufrasio and Anna Bolly Pelissero. She is also preceded in death by her loving husband James Jackson, who passed away in 1989, and her two sisters, Mary Thomas and Helen Pelissero, as well as her brothers Harry and Louis Pelissero.

Elda devoted many of her working years as a bank teller at First Citizens Bank, where she was not only recognized for her professionalism but also cherished for her friendly demeanor. Retirement gave her the freedom to pursue activities that brought her joy, especially her love for walking. Elda took numerous walking tours throughout Europe and found great pleasure in daily walks around Lake Junaluska, embracing the beauty of nature and the joy of exploration.

Her heart was deeply rooted in her faith as a member of Mountain View Church of God, where she garnered lasting friendships and support from the community.

Elda leaves behind a loving family that includes her daughter, Cheryl Bradley, and her sons, Terry Benton (Kathy) and James Jackson, Jr. She is also survived by her stepsons, Gary Jackson and Larry Jackson (Judy), her sister, Anne Toews, ten grandchildren, Charlie, David, Timothy, Matthew, Morgan, Austin, Katelyn, Jacob, Rebekah, and Joshua, and six great-grandchildren who were all fortunate to share in her life and spirit.

Per Elda's wishes a private service will be held.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Church of God - Childrens Home, 3485 Weatherby Circle, Concord, NC 28027 or Church of God - Missions, PO Box 553, Canton, NC 28716.

Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her beloved family and friends.

The care of Ms. Jackson has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.

View Elda P. Jackson's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

John B. "Jack" DusenberryJohn B. Dusenberry, affectionately known as Jack, 95, of Waynesville, NC, passed away on June 1...
07/14/2025

John B. "Jack" Dusenberry

John B. Dusenberry, affectionately known as Jack, 95, of Waynesville, NC, passed away on June 12, 2025, at Haywood Memorial Hospital after a short illness. Born on December 4, 1929, in Newark, NJ, Jack was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and community member whose warmth and dedication left a lasting impact.

Jack was the eldest of four children born to his late parents, preceded in death by sister Joan Moore (d. 2019), Robert Dusenberry (d. 1939) and brother Thomas Dusenberry (d. 2020). Growing up in Madison, NJ, he joined the Navy in 1948, serving in Oakland, CA. After his service, Jack worked briefly at Allied Chemical before embarking on a long career in the auto industry. He began at Downs Motors in Morristown, NJ, and in 1968, alongside his best friend Bob Hickman, purchased J&B Chevrolet & Oldsmobile in Belvidere, NJ. Together, they successfully ran the dealership until their retirement in 1987.

In 1988, Jack and his wife, Gail Treiber Dusenberry, relocated to the mountains of North Carolina, where they built a vibrant life. They were longtime members of Crabtree United Methodist Church and devoted volunteers with Red Cross blood drives and Meals on Wheels, reflecting Jack’s commitment to serving others.

Jack is survived by his loving wife of many years, Gail Dusenberry; his children, Kathy Zeigenfuse (Barry) of Morgantown, PA, and Ken Dusenberry (Lori) of Stokesdale, NC; and his seven cherished grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He was known as Bubba to his grandkids.

His legacy of kindness, hard work, and community spirit will live on in their hearts.

Per Jack’s wishes, the family will hold a private memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Red Cross or Meals on Wheels in his honor.

The care of Mr. Dusenberry has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville and an online memorial register is available at "Obituaries" at www.wellsfuneralhome.com.

View John B. "Jack" Dusenberry's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Address

296 N Main Street
Waynesville, NC
28786

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Wells Funeral Homes Inc & Cremation Services - Waynesville posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to Wells Funeral Homes Inc & Cremation Services - Waynesville:

Share