Robert Louis Ammons "RL"

Robert Louis “RL” Ammons, 79 of Sylva, passed away peacefully Wednesday evening, June 14^th at Skyland Care Center after a long, but strong, battle with heart disease and Alzheimer's. He was a lifelong resident of Jackson County, and the son of the late Henry and Nora Claybo Ammons.

RL was preceded in death by two brothers; Wade (Dot), Jimmy (Virginia); and one sister, Madge (Cecil) Coggins.

He grew up on Wayehutta, and after he married the love of his life at 18, they then moved to Old Ashe Settlement.  He worked in textiles his entire career rolling cloth for Buster Brown, then later with Ashley Company and QC Apparel.  He loved "loafering” and spending time in our beautiful Mountains with his family, including their best friends Mike and Faye Deitz.   Whether it was fishing for trout or crappie, camping with all their camping buddies at Lake Chatuge or Lake Hartwell, visiting the Elk in Cherokee, picnicking in the Chimney’s/Deep Creek/Cades Cove/or anywhere with a picnic table, RL was always up for a fun time.   There were many happy moments with him sitting and telling big tales and making everyone laugh. He also loved old Country music and Bluegrass, especially Balsam Range. If Balsam Range was playing nearby, he was there clapping his hands and tapping his feet.  But finally, RL loved God and knew that one day he would be reunited with everyone he cherished.

RL is survived by his wife of 59 years, Bessie Mathis Ammons; daughter Melanie Rider (Brian) of Candler, NC; and son Brian Ammons(Glenda) of Sylva.  He is also survived by his two granddaughter’s, who he loved and adored; Nora Gwen Rider and Marley Elizabeth Rider.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation for research to cure Alzheimer's in memory of RL Ammons.

Alzheimer's Association

Attn: Research

4600 Park Road, Suite 250

Charlotte, NC 28209

Funeral Services will be held 4:00 PM Monday June 19, 2023 in the Chapel of Appalachian Funeral Services with the Revs. Eddie Stillwell, Earl Holden and Clemmy Queen officiating

The family will be receiving friends from 2:00 until 4:00 pm prior to the Service