In Memoriam: Anne Cobb Smith Weatherford

With deep gratitude for her life and sorrow at her passing, we learned of the death of former Union Church member and Berea College first lady, Anne Cobb Smith Weatherford. She died in Black Mountain, NC under hospice care yesterday evening, June 7, 2016.

Anne and her family joined Union Church when her husband, Willis D. Weatherford, Jr became the 6th president of Berea College, serving from 1967-1984. Anne was an active member of the community using her considerable talent to orchestrate the affairs of both college and church. More recent members and friends will recognize her work: she was one of the artists who made the Cowan Chapel cross tapestry pictured here. She will be remembered for her wise counsel, her sharp wit, and her clear and strong sense of purpose. Before her illness she was a frequent visitor to Berea and was always interested in the “going’s on” at Union. She was a dear friend to many here and she will be deeply missed.

A memorial service and celebration of the resurrection will be held at St. James Episcopal Church in Black Mountain on June 18th. A reception for Berea friends is also being planned, and we’ll send more details as soon as details are received from the family.