Raymon Albert Menze

Dr. "Ray" Menze, 72, of Cullowhee, NC, died November 23, 2011 at Mountain Trace Nursing Center in Webster, NC. Born in Connecticut, he attended the University of Kentucky, the University of Florida and Florida State University from which he earned his doctorate degree in Art Education. He taught art in public schools in Kentucky, Florida and Jackson County, North Carolina as well as being a professor in art education at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina. He is predeceased by his parents, Helen and Ramon Menze , as well as his twin sister, Gail Menze Cohen. He is survived by his niece, Donna Putnam of St. Petersburg, Fla., his nephew Jeffrey Cohen of Seattle, Washington and a niece Candi Cane-Canncel of Seattle, Washington. He was a practicing artist, photographer and violinist as well as an active advocate for arts education. He was a member as well as director and three-term President of the Jackson County Arts Council. He was a founding member and exhibitor with the Jackson County Visual Arts Association, and violinist and manager with the Western Carolina Civic Orchestra. He was a member and President of the North Carolina Education Association and a founding member of the organization Bridging Jackson Communities, and a member of the North Carolina Art Education Association. He was also a member and President of Catch the Spirit of Appalachia. His services in and advocacy for the arts in Jackson County have greatly influenced students, artists and local citizens. A Memorial Service will be held 3:30 PM Friday December 9, 2011 in the Chapel of Appalachian Funeral Services. In Lieu of flowers friends may make contributions to the JCAC Ray Menze Fund, 310 Keener St., Sylva, NC 28779, or for more information call 828-293-5458 or 828-293-5479 . .