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

Teresa Renee CallihanTeresa Renee Callihan, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on September...
10/10/2025

Teresa Renee Callihan

Teresa Renee Callihan, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, in Haywood County, North Carolina, at the age of 55. Born on December 13, 1969, in Arkansas, Teresa was a shining light to all who knew her, embodying kindness and warmth that made everyone around her feel at ease.

As a true homemaker, Teresa dedicated her life to providing for her family's needs. Her days were spent nurturing her loved ones and creating a home filled with love and laughter. With a remarkable sense of humor, she had a gift for brightening even the gloomiest of days, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of family and friends alike.

Teresa cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, finding immense joy in playing and creating memories with them. Her love for nature also brought her great happiness; she enjoyed venturing to Cataloochee to watch the majestic elk and spent peaceful moments observing the geese at Lake Junaluska.

She leaves behind her loving husband, Lowell E. Callihan "Bo," and her devoted children: Allison Standfield, Keliah Britt, and Joseph Bartlett. She also leaves behind many grandchildren who were the apples of her eye. Teresa will also be deeply missed by her loved ones, who are left to carry her memory in their hearts.

Teresa was preceded in death by her mother, Vickie Lynn Bartlett, who surely welcomed her with open arms.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation at Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville, NC, on September 27, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service that will take place from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The home she created will continue to be a testament to her love and dedication, as she carried the legacy of family at its core.

In this time of sorrow, let us remember Teresa not just for the sadness of our loss, but for the countless moments of joy and laughter she gifted us all. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in our memories and in the love she so freely shared.

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

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Sheila Hoyle McMahanSheila Hoyle McMahan, age 74, of Sylva, NC (Willets Community), passed away peacefully in her home o...
10/09/2025

Sheila Hoyle McMahan

Sheila Hoyle McMahan, age 74, of Sylva, NC (Willets Community), passed away peacefully in her home on October 07, 2025, while being surrounded by her family. She had fought a long and hard battle with rheumatoid arthritis, blindness, pancreatic cancer, and dementia. She never gave up, and she never complained, only praising God for His Goodness. She loved her family dearly, and they loved her and are relieved that she is no longer suffering and that she is now at peace in Heaven.

In her early adult years, Sheila drove a school bus for Jackson County Public Schools and worked at Smith’s Drug Store in Waynesville until her first child was born. The remainder of her life, she was a homemaker and a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She loved crafts, and her home is full of beautiful items that she made. She was a wonderful cook and loved to bake.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Catherine Gunter Hoyle, and two special grandmothers, Parthenia Hoyle and Pearlee Gunter. She is survived by two beloved brothers, Tommy Hoyle (Stephanie) of Gardnerville, NV, and David Hoyle of Bucharest, Romania. She is also survived by the love of her life, her devoted husband of 55 years, Tommy McMahan; two sons who were her pride and joy, Brian McMahan (Luisa) and Brent McMahan (Louanne); and her three little angels (grandchildren), Spencer, Henry, and Annie McMahan. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins, and special friends. She was always so proud of her Gunter, Hoyle, and McMahan family.

She was a member of the Balsam Missionary Baptist Church, where she faithfully worshiped and served until her health prevented her from going. She was a great prayer warrior and lived her faith through her expression of kindness to others.

A Celebration of Her Life will be held at Balsam Missionary Baptist Church on Sunday, October 12, 2025, with the Rev. Lee Brooks and Rev. Greg Cullen officiating. Her oldest son, Brian McMahan will deliver the Eulogy. Immediately following the memorial service, the family will host a time of fellowship with friends and family in the church fellowship hall for those wishing to pay their respects. A private inurnment will take place in the Balsam Missionary Baptist Church cemetery at a later date for the family.

If you wish to make monetary donations, please send them to Balsam Missionary Baptist Church, PO Box 281, Balsam, NC 28707. For all other inquiries, contact Brian McMahan at 828-508-1466.

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

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Rachel BestAs the sun was setting over her beloved Crabtree Mountain home on October 1, 2025, Rachel Nicole Best, at the...
10/06/2025

Rachel Best

As the sun was setting over her beloved Crabtree Mountain home on October 1, 2025, Rachel Nicole Best, at the age of 41, peacefully departed this world, finally free from the malignant brain tumor she had bravely and hopefully battled for 21 years.

Rachel was born on June 11, 1984, to her parents, Randy and Jill Best, in upper Crabtree. She enjoyed spending her childhood days playing with her sister, Maggie, her "cousin like a brother," Jeremy, and a host of other cousins and friends, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime. They all especially enjoyed spending time at their Mamaw and Papaw's house where Rachel could often be found helping her grandmother work in the kitchen. Her favorite job was rolling dough and cutting out biscuits to eat with chocolate gravy that she often requested.

Rachel began her educational journey at Crabtree School, where she was the only girl in a kindergarten class of thirteen students. After graduating from Tuscola High School in 2002, Rachel went on to pursue higher education at Asheville-Buncombe Technical College, nurturing her dream of becoming a chef. Discovery of a brain tumor and major surgery prevented Rachel from realizing her dream. During periods of remission, she worked as a chocolatier at the Chocolate Fe**sh in Asheville. She also worked at the Bee Charmer and at the Spice and Tea Exchange. Rachel lived in San Franscisco, California for a while where she worked at a French bakery and caterer. When she came home to North Carolina, she became self-employed in catering and baking wedding cakes.

Rachel married Ryan Shola and they became foster parents to a 3-month-old baby boy, whom they nurtured until his parents became able to care for him. They also rescued several orphaned goats and sheep, giving them extraordinary care. Rachel and Ryan spent a lot of time traveling around the country in an RV with their two rescue dogs. They were fortunate to experience much of the beautiful scenery, recreational opportunities, and cuisine that America has to offer.

Rachel was a very creative being. Some of her hobbies included metalsmithing, crafting silver and turquoise jewelry, visiting art galleries, mushroom hunting, hiking, reading, growing succulents, and cooking. A mission trip to Honduras was a favorite experience. She loved big family gatherings. Rachel was a naturist, believing that we should do no harm to the earth God has given us. She was also an advocate for animals, becoming involved in animal welfare organizations. As a teen she became convinced that each animal has a desire to live, just as we do. Her conscience would not allow her to eat meat or any product that caused an animal to lose its life. Rachel will be remembered for her bright smile, her passion for what she believed, for her fearless approach to new experiences, and for the steadfast hope she had that she would overcome cancer.

Rachel was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Bob Street. She is survived by her father, Randy Best of Upper Crabtree, and her mother, Jill Street Best, of Waynesville. She is also survived by her sister, Maggie Best Bramlett and Maggie's children, Haiden and Jake Woods (whom she adored), as well as her paternal grandparents, Ben and Clarine Best, and her maternal grandmother, Mildred Street Ledbetter. Rachel is also survived by her canine sons, Doug and Zen, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and special caregivers, Melanie Fouchi, RN and Kaylee Medford.

A service for Rachel will take place on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Rock Springs Baptist Church 2554 Liner Creek Road, Clyde. The visitation will be held at the church from noon to 2:00 pm prior to the service. The service will begin at 2 O'clock, after which she will be returned to the earth on Crabtree Mountain, which she called home.

In Lieu of flowers, we invite you to honor Rachel's memory with a donation to her favorite charity: Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Rd. Kanab, UT 8474-5000 Attn: Donor Relations/JS or by phone 435-919-3835 option 1; or by website at https: bestfriends.org/donate/remembering-an-animal-lover

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

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Freda Ann HillFreda Ann Hill, 84, beloved caretaker, died Sept. 25, 2025, at the home of her niece, Eugenia Moore.She wa...
09/29/2025

Freda Ann Hill

Freda Ann Hill, 84, beloved caretaker, died Sept. 25, 2025, at the home of her niece, Eugenia Moore.

She was born Nov. 16, 1940, in the old Haywood County Hospital, the daughter of the late Sam and Quaye Elizabeth Justice Hill. She lived her entire life, except for her last year, in the same home in the Liner Creek section of Upper Crabtree.

She was the valedictorian of the 1959 graduating class of Crabtree/Iron Duff High School where she played basketball, despite her small stature. She was employed at American Enka, beginning soon after high school, until her retirement from what was then BASF in 1993.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Carroll Eugene Hill and his wife, Joan; a niece, Jennifer Hill Frizzell, brother-in-law David Rogers, a great-nephew Shawn Rogers, and a very special friend, Robert Smith.

Freda is survived by her niece and chief caregiver, Eugenia Moore (Mike Swanger), great-nephew Samuel Moore (Katie Kennett), a sister, Novella Rogers, nephew Harold Rogers, a niece Kristy Rogers, a nephew by marriage, J.D. Frizzell; nephew, Ricky Hill (Sherry), great-nephew Ernie Hill; great-niece Mary Hill Sheehan (Isaac); and great-great nieces Maggie and Trinity.

Freda was a devout Christian who deeply loved the Lord and never wavered in her faith. She was a children’s Sunday school teacher for many years at Rock Springs Baptist Church where she also served as church secretary and particularly enjoyed working with Vacation Bible School crafts. At the time of her death, she was a member of James Chapel Baptist Church.

Freda devoted most of her life to caring for others. She cared for her parents until their deaths and helped care for her great aunt and uncle. She was known for sitting with friends and family members during their illnesses and often transported those who could not drive to medical appointments or for other errands. She helped raise her great-nephew, Samuel Moore, to whom she was like a second mother. She had many friends and was especially close to her ‘tribe of women’ who would eat out and travel together.

Services will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct.5, at Wells Funeral Home, Waynesville, with Rev. Billy Ferguson and Rev. Jeff Moore officiating. The family will receive friends from 1-2:30 p.m. before the service. Burial will follow in the Upper Crabtree Community Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Samuel Moore, Ernie Hill, Isaac Sheehan; J.D. Frizzell, Danny McElroy and Adrian Presnell.

Honorary pallbearers will be: Roy Sutton, Terry Rogers, Gerald Rhinehart, Jimmy Smith, Harold Rogers, Charles Evans, Tony McClure, Scott Smith, Hunter James, Justin and Daniel Ross and Michael Presnell.

The family thanks Haywood Hospice for its excellent and loving care of Freda during her last weeks.

Memorials may be made to the Upper Crabtree Community Cemetery Fund, C/O Miss Jerry Smith, 64 Footsy Drive, Clyde, NC 28721.

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

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Linda S. PlessLinda Susan Pless, 70, of Waynesville NC, passed away peacefully, September 23, 2025. She was born Septemb...
09/29/2025

Linda S. Pless

Linda Susan Pless, 70, of Waynesville NC, passed away peacefully, September 23, 2025. She was born September 15, 1955, to the late Howell Eugene Pless and Mary Jaunita Crisp Pless. She left the mountains of WNC in 2005 and moved to Wilmington NC for work and her love of the beach and ocean. She returned to her home in Haywood County in 2020.

Linda was a Registered Nurse and spent 40 years in her career, providing a network of caring for those in her communities. Her last position was at Skyland Terrace as the MDS Coordinator. She genuinely cared for and loved her patients. Linda was also an animal lover, her two cats Jasmine and Evie, were her fur babies. Linda was an artist at heart in her spare time she worked with oil paints as an outlet for her artistic side, she was also an avid reader.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death, by her two sons, Richard “Ricky” Eugene Pless & Robert Alan Stinnett II.

She is survived by, her daughters, Rachel Stinnett Qualls, and Leanna Meadows (Tim); 2 Grandchildren Everett Bryson (Breana), Arley Bryson; her sister Vicki Cole (Tim), a niece Theresa Smathers, and a nephew Chad Cole. She is also survived by her large and extended work family.

A memorial service will be held, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 2pm at the Chapel of Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville. The Family will receive friends an hour prior to the service.

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Carol Ann MastrianaCarol Ann Spasiano Mastriana, born on November 19, 1941, in Queens, New York, to the late Leonard and...
09/29/2025

Carol Ann Mastriana

Carol Ann Spasiano Mastriana, born on November 19, 1941, in Queens, New York, to the late Leonard and June Spasiano, departed this world on September 26, 2025, at Sapphire Ridge. She leaves behind a profound legacy of love, warmth, and cherished memories.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Nicholas Mastriana; an infant daughter, Nicole; a grandson Nicholas "Big Nick" Leonard Mastriana; and an infant great-grandson Nicholas Leonard Mastriana.

Carol was a dedicated admin for the Haywood Medical Center Radiology Department, where her diligence and compassion created a lasting impact on those she worked with. Her beautiful soul was matched only by her deep love for family, and her kindness made her a cherished friend to many.

The heartwarming image of Carol dancing gracefully with her husband Nicholas, who predeceased her, captures the essence of their bond. Their dances were not just a form of entertainment but a celebration of love that resonated with all who witnessed it. Carol's spirit would light up the room as she laughed and enjoyed herself, especially during late-night movies filled with comedy, where she and her granddaughter Jessica would find joy in each other's company until the early hours of the morning.

Beyond her career and cherished family ties, Carol embraced her interests with enthusiasm. She found joy in playing Bingo, nurturing a passion for reading, and a boundless love for dolphins. These simple pleasures mirrored her zest for life and her ability to find happiness in the little moments.

Surviving Carol are her loving children, Leonard Mastriana and Dominick Mastriana, along with their supportive spouses Wanda Mastriana and Sheila Mastriana. The joy she brought to her family continues through her granddaughter Jessica and the laughter of her great-grandchildren: Kally, Mia, and Keanu Mastriana. They carry her legacy of love, bringing smiles and warmth into a world that deeply feels her absence.

While Carol is missed dearly and mourned by those who love her, her spirit lives on in the hearts of her family and friends. Her memory, filled with laughter and love, will forever remain a guiding light in their lives.

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

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Judith Pressley WenzelLife’s journey came to a close for Judith Pressley Wenzel on September 26, 2025. She leaves behind...
09/28/2025

Judith Pressley Wenzel

Life’s journey came to a close for Judith Pressley Wenzel on September 26, 2025. She leaves behind a devoted family: her three sons and their wives, Frederick and Erin Wenzel, Christopher and Georgiana Wenzel, and Derek and Sarah Wenzel; eleven cherished grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, Dr. Frederick G. Wenzel; her father, Herbert Pressley, and mother, Georgia Ferguson Repar; her brother, James K. Dotson; her sister, Betty Dotson; and her brother, Bobby Dotson.

Born on February 14, 1937, Judy grew up in Clyde, North Carolina, where her warmth and dedication to others were first nurtured. A graduate of Clyde High School, she went on to earn her Registered Nurse degree from the James Ward School of Nursing in Chicago, affiliated with Northwestern University. While in Chicago, she met the love of her life, Frederick George Wenzel, then a medical student.

The couple began their married life abroad, spending two years in Würzburg, Germany, where Dr. Wenzel served as a captain and surgeon in the U.S. Army. They later returned to Chicago to complete his medical training before settling permanently in Clyde, where they built their family and shared a lifetime of commitment to each other and their community.

Judy devoted her life not only to her family but also to the service of others. She gave twelve years to the Salvation Army Board, including two as Chair; served on the Haywood Community College Board, also chairing for two years; and made history as the first woman to serve on the board of First Union Bank in Waynesville. She was a charter member of the Haywood County Hospital Auxiliary and an inaugural board member of the Fund for Haywood County, part of the WNC Community Foundation. Her leadership, vision, and generosity left a lasting mark on her community.

Beyond her public service, Judy was happiest at home and with her loved ones. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose warmth and grace touched all who knew her. Her passions included gardening and flower arranging, which she pursued as a member of both the Richland Garden Club of Waynesville and the Ikebana Garden Club of Asheville. A lifelong learner and traveler, she filled her days with reading, collecting antiques, and exploring the world—visiting more than 30 countries.

Services will include a private funeral Mass for the family at St. John the Evangelist Church in Waynesville, NC.

The care of Mrs. Wenzel has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home.

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Rufus Edward BrownRufus Edward Brown, age 80, of Clyde, NC (Crabtree community), passed away peacefully in his home on S...
09/23/2025

Rufus Edward Brown

Rufus Edward Brown, age 80, of Clyde, NC (Crabtree community), passed away peacefully in his home on September 20, 2025. He fought a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis and cancer for over 10 years, and he showed immense stoicism and grace throughout his illness. Rufus was a beloved member of the community and had many friends. He was also a man of great faith. His family is relieved that he’s no longer suffering and is now at peace with his Heavenly Father.

Rufus was a native of Haywood County, NC, and he loved the mountains of Western North Carolina. He was born on July 13, 1945, in Haywood County Hospital to Sam Brown of Hurricane Creek (deceased) and Jessie Mae (Shelton) Brown of Waynesville (deceased). His older brother was Fredrick S. Brown of Lake Junaluska (deceased).

Rufus was the the Senior Class President (Class of 1963) at Waynesville Township High School. After high school, he attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated in 1967. Shortly after, he joined the U.S. Navy, became a commissioned naval officer, and started naval flight training in 1967. As a lieutenant, he served in Vietnam and the Philippines during the Vietnam War. While at war, he was exposed to Agent Orange and other toxic chemicals, which caused his pulmonary fibrosis and cancer. Rufus suffered greatly for his country, but his patriotism never wavered.

After the Vietnam War, Rufus returned home to the mountains and began a career in banking, serving at Northwestern Bank and First Citizens Bank in Waynesville, NC, and United Community Bank in Sylva, NC. He married the love of his life, Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Poole in 1974, and raised two children, Sara and Andy. Rufus was also very active in his church. Throughout the years, he held memberships at Barberville Baptist Church in Waynesville, NC, Clyde First Baptist Church in Clyde, NC, and Longs Chapel UMC in Lake Junaluska, NC.

He taught Adult Sunday School for many years. He also served as Lay Leader and Leadership Chairman of the Deacons.

Rufus was an avid fly fisherman who also enjoyed golfing, camping, and farming his property in rural Upper Crabtree. He had a passion for travel, especially in Alaska and the Western United States. He had a great love for pristine landscapes and wild places. Over the course of his life, he visited all 50 states. Rufus was a man of many talents and interests, including singing, acting, teaching, storytelling, and fly-tying.

Rufus is survived by his wife of 51 years, Betty; two children and their spouses: Sara Brown (Jude Rutledge) and Andy Brown (Becky); and three grandchildren: Caroline (age 14), Jack (age 11), and Wyatt (age 8) Brown. His memory will also live on in his nephews and their spouses: Joe Brown (Judy), Mark Brown (Ann), Jim Poole (Betzi); great-nephew Luke Brown; his niece and spouse: Ellen Ekevag (Per); great-nieces: Amy Jo Brown, Anna Ekevag, Agatha Poole, and Ida Poole; his brother-in-law and spouse, Mike Poole (Roz); and his many beloved cousins.

The memorial service and visitation will be Sunday, September 28th, at Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville, NC. Visitation starts at 1:30PM. The service will be at 3:00PM. Reverend Becky Brown (Rufus’ daughter-in-law) and Reverend Chris Willett will officiate. The burial will follow the service at Upper Crabtree Cemetery (above Mt. Zion’s UMC church).

Thanks to friends, family, and neighbors for all your prayers and support. In lieu of flowers, Rufus wanted donations to be made to the United Methodist Committee of Relief (UMCOR): https://umcmission.org/work/humanitarian-relief.

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

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Carol Jean MartinCarol Jean Smith Martin began her earthly journey on March 17,1946 to Mr. Ray Edward and Norma Jean Smi...
09/16/2025

Carol Jean Martin

Carol Jean Smith Martin began her earthly journey on March 17,1946 to Mr. Ray Edward and Norma Jean Smith (Bobo and Granny). She was born in Charlotte, NC but Salisbury, NC is where her heart and her home truly were.

Carol (mom) went to Boyden High School where she met a group of girls that would forever be a part of her life all the way to the end. To the “Beach Bunnies,” Bodie McCann, Jackie Burleson, Barbara Safrit, Betsy Miller, Betty Huneycutt, Loretta Ludwick, Lyn Hadden, Mary Roueche Rendleman, Montye Furr, and Vicki Boyd . . . thank you for being lifelong friends that gave mom adventures to look back on and look forward to, memories worth remembering and stories best left at the beach.

Carol also met William Christian Martin (Chris Martin) while at Boyden High School and they dated until mom went to Catawba College and Chris joined the Air Force. After college and after the Air Force, the two met again in Salisbury and dated until their marriage in 1969. Soon after, they moved to Cullowhee, NC where their daughter Ashley was born.

Carol’s career began at Southwestern Community College. She was a business instructor and taught everything from shorthand and typing to preparing others for interviews and job preparation. Since some of her students had never left Jackson County, she arranged a trip to the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia. She wanted to use the opportunity to teach independence, confidence to step out of your comfort zone, dress for success, and get a glimpse of what else is out there. As SCC grew and expanded and the business world changed, Carol went back to school and earned her Master’s in Business at Western Carolina University.

Upon retirement, Carol worked at Hollifield Jewelers part-time for several years. She loved the interaction with people and being surrounded by so much bling. She even saw a paycheck once in a while. If they had sold purses and shoes, she would have considered the job heaven-sent sent but she would have also been broke.

And to my mom . . . you worried about me being too sensitive but helped make it my strength, I was a challenge but you held your patience, you made sure I was safe but allowed me to make my own way, you gave me memories to build upon and lessons to help me grow. I am proud to be your daughter and because of you, I am going to be ok. Thank you and I love you!

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Norma Jean Smith, and her brother, Ray Lowell Smith.

Carol is survived by her brother Clayton Jay Smith (Dawn), daughter Ashley Martin Reece, and granddaughter Leigh Erin Reece.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 pm Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Waynesville Chapel of Wells Funeral Home.

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

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Howard Keith KisamoreHoward Keith Kisamore, born on January 28, 1934, in Randolph County, West Virginia, departed from t...
09/15/2025

Howard Keith Kisamore

Howard Keith Kisamore, born on January 28, 1934, in Randolph County, West Virginia, departed from this world on September 12, 2025, at his residence in Cedar Mountain, North Carolina. He lived a life of dedication, love, and unwavering strength.

Howard spent an impressive 35 years as a devoted employee of DuPont, where his commitment was as steadfast as his character. A proud graduate of Harmon High School, he forged lasting friendships that enriched his life, weaving a tapestry of connections that spanned decades.

His military service in the United States Air Force exemplified his patriotism, with duty assignments at Randolph Air Force Base in Texas and Andrews Air Force Base near Washington, D.C. This chapter of his life instilled in him a sense of duty and respect that he carried into all his endeavors.

With a heart as vast as his talents, Howard was a passionate organic gardener who understood that the sweetest harvests come through hard work and resilience, rather than the use of chemicals. He generously shared his abundant crops with his neighbors, instilling a sense of community and connection through his labor. Additionally, he was a skilled woodworker, creating beautiful pieces of furniture that adorned his home and the homes of his family. He took joy in teaching his grandchildren the art of properly using a hammer, gifting each of them with their own toolboxes he made by hand and filled with the love and knowledge he imparted.

Howard was a loving father to his two daughters, Diane Kisamore of Eden, and Debbie Perdue and her husband Marc of Lexington. His love extended to his grandchildren, Jonathan Jones, Christopher Jones and his wife Caitlin, Timothy Jones and his wife Kimberly, Michael Perdue and his wife Sarah, and Ashley Perdue. He found immense joy and pride in his great-grandchildren, Paige, Leanna, Gatlin, Remi, Cooper, and Colter, cherishing every moment spent with them. He is also survived by siblings, Donna Van Devander and husband Bill, Jerry White and wife Sharon, Kay Daniels, Rod Judy, Gary Judy, and Galen Judy. His legacy is echoed through the laughter and love shared with his family and friends.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 49 years, Magalene Carver Kisamore, along with his parents, Bertha Grace Kisamore and Harmon Russell Judy. Howard also mourned the loss of his siblings, Doris White Morrall, Jean White, Caroline Moore, Johnny White, Ernest "Ern" White, Troy White, and Ron White. Their memories lived on in him, as he carried them in his heart throughout his life.

Howard’s personality shone brightly; he was strong, caring, humble, hardworking, and possessed a great sense of humor. He expressed his love daily through his actions, embodying what it meant to be a protector and provider. Blessed in so many ways, he in turn, blessed all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 12:30 PM at Garrett-Hillcrest Memorial Park in Waynesville, North Carolina. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor the remarkable life of a man who will be deeply missed but never forgotten. If you knew Howard, you loved him—and his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched with kindness and generosity.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Four Seasons Hospice and also to the First Responders at Cedar Mountain Fire Department for their kindness and professional care of Mr. Kisamore.

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

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296 N Main Street
Waynesville, NC
28786

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