Lexie Winchester Obituary

BRYSON CITY - Lexie Lucille Howard Winchester, 99, passed away peacefully Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. She was born in Swain County, Jan. 3, 1926, to the late William R. Howard and Susan Slagle Howard.
Lexie lived a life of love, devotion and unwavering faith, which was nurtured through her long membership and service at the Sawmill Hill FWB Church. She actively participated in the church and sang in the choir. Her faith, wisdom, and steadfastness made her the cornerstone of her family.
A nurturing homemaker, Lexie worked tirelessly throughout her life, balancing the demands of caring for farm animals, tending to her home and raising her family with boundless love. She took immense pride in her children, grandchildren and extended family, cherishing them unconditionally. Lexie was also a wonderful cook whose meals were a source of comfort and joy for all who gathered at her table. With an equal amount of devotion and skill, she spent her life tending the soil to craft a beautiful tapestry of flowers and vegetables that were her pride and joy.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Winchester; son, Lawerence Winchester; and daughter, Debra Mueller.
She is survived by her children, Larry Winchester, Leonard (Susan) Winchester, Carolyn Winchester and Lisa (Tony) Sutton; son-in-law, Greg Mueller; grandchildren, Renea, Michael, Brian, Shane, Shanice, Stephanie, Daniel, Meagan, Justin, Matthew and Valerie; numerous great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and nieces, nephews and extended relatives.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Mountain View Manor for the compassionate care provided to her over the past five years. We are also deeply grateful for the faithful spiritual guidance of Jaimie Cook, Linda Wike and Marty Pressely. Their ministry was a constant source of encouragement for Mom, who cherished worshiping with them each week.
Funeral Services were held Monday, Jan. 20, at 2 p.m. at the Sawmill Hill FWB Church in Bryson City. Brothers Jimmy Lambert and Travis Watkins officiated. Pallbearers were Mike Winchester, Brian King, Daniel Belote, Tony Sutton, Greg Mueller and Tom Smith. The body was present in the church an hour prior to service for viewing.