William David Walkingstick, 77, an Eastern Band Cherokee, N.C. native, who resided in Louisville, Tenn., passed away on the evening of Friday, May 29, 2026.

Michael Lacaine Laws, 53, of the Lower Alarka Community, went home to be with the Lord Monday, June 1, 2026. A native of Swain County, he was the son of Sarah Reva Jenkins of Bryson City and the late James Harold Laws.

Carolynn Lynda Smith passed away in Asheville, N.C., on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

Kristine Trottingwolf, of Petaluma, Calif., passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the age of 79.  Kris was enrolled as a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.  Thankfully, she endures no more suffering from her battle with cancer.

Velma Jean McMillan Hemphill, 82, of the 3200 Acre Tract, passed away Tuesday, May 26, 2026 after a long illness. A native of Swain County, she was the daughter of the late Ray and Edna Owle McMillan and wife of the late Henry Hayse Robertson and Charles Hemphill.

Robyn Michelle Bigmeat, age 54, of Cherokee, N.C., passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at her residence in Cherokee, N.C.

Sherry Daniels Pheasant, 64, of the Big Cove Community of Cherokee, N.C., passed away Sunday, May 17, 2026, after a long battle with cancer.

Dustin Thomas Smith, age 21, of Cherokee, N.C., passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 14, 2026.