Etta Jean Setser

Etta Jean Setser, age 90, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Franklin, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Earl Blaine and Lucy Blaine (née Watts). Jean was a longtime resident of Haywood County, where she lived for 58 years and built a life centered on faith, family, friends, and simple joys.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Rufus Lee Setser, who passed in 2006; her son, Douglas Lee Setser; grandsons, Chadwin Lee Setser and Christopher Douglas Setser; both of her sisters, JoAnn Brown and Janice Peak; and brothers, Thad and Turner Blaine.

Jean pursued her education at Haywood Community College, where she earned an associate degree in Horticulture as well as her medical assistant certification. She had a deep love for the beauty of nature and the quiet comforts of home. She found joy in reading, tending to her garden, watching birds, and going to the beach. These passions reflected her gentle and thoughtful spirit and love for nature.

She is survived by her sons, Charles Lee Setser and Edward Ray Setser (his wife Monica Mae Setser); her daughter, Joanie Setser; her granddaughters, Emily Ann Setser, Eleanor Caitlin Setser, and Zoe Elizabeth Setser; her grandson, Matthew Thomas Miller; her great-grandsons, Colby Linc Setser and Canyen Locke Setser; her brothers Thurman and Theodore Blaine; her sisters-in-law Ruth Blaine; and brother-in-law JB Brown. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory.

Jean will be remembered for her quiet strength, her love for her family, and the warmth she brought into the lives of those around her.

A Gathering of Family & Friends will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sarges Animal Rescue, 256 Industrial Park Drive Ste. B, Waynesville, NC 28786

The care of Mrs. Setser has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.