07/22/2026
Waynesville Fire Department would like to extend condolences to the family and fire family of Chief Sellars. Chief Sellars was a pillar of the Haywood County fire service. He was friend and mentor to many members of our Department and his impact can't be overstated. He will be dearly missed.
Our hearts are deeply saddened by the passing of Mitchell โ Mitchโ Lane Sellars. He was surrounded by his wife and son as he entered into his glorious heavenly home on Saturday, July 18, 2026.
There are some people whose lives are measured not by the years they lived, but by the countless lives they touched. Mitch was one of those special people.
Born on October 5, 1962, in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Mitchell embodied the values that define the people of our mountains โ strength, humility, kindness, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to help others. If you were fortunate enough to know Mitch, you knew a man who was genuine, a man who was always fair, and a man who was an inspiration to others.
Mitch was a devoted son, a loving husband, a proud father, a cherished grandfather, a caring brother, and a loyal friend. His grandkids were the light of his life, bringing him lots of joy, happiness, and making memories they will cherish forever.
His lifeโs work as a dedicated fireman reflected the very essence of who he was. For more than 20 years, Mitch faithfully served with the Skyland Fire Department as Captain, answering the call whenever his community needed him. He also served as Fire Chief for the Clyde Department for more than 12 years. Being a firefighter was never simply a job to Mitch โ it was his calling. He courageously stood ready always to protect others. Mitch was a trusted mentor to countless young firefighters, teaching them not only the skills of the profession but the values of courage, compassion, and lessons in life.
Mitchell embraced life with enthusiasm. He enjoyed playing golf with all his buddies, especially his best friend Vincent, who Mitch loved as a brother, spending time with his wife at their place at Lake Keowee, going boating, and simply having fun with friends. Mitch and Samantha also enjoyed attending many fun-filled music concerts with their best friends, Vincent and Chrysta- making wonderful memories.
Though his time with us feels too short, the impact of his wonderful life will endure for generations to come. โWell done, good and faithful servantโ- you will never be forgotten.
He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Edward Sellars, who passed away in 2017.
He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Samantha Gooch Sellars; his son, Dustin Sellars ( Mary) of Clyde and grandchildren, Everett, Cooper and Murphy; his mother, Louise Payne Sellars of Clyde; his daughter, Elizabeth Rich (Brett) of Clyde and grandchildren Kaley and Kaiden; his brother, Charles โCharlieโ Sellars (Pam) of Gatlinburg, TN; a nephew, Michael Sellars (Kristin); a niece, Maddie Sellars; his precious dog "Maggie"; and a multitude of wonderful friends.
Arrangements:
Location:
Stuart Auditorium
20 Chapel Drive
Lake Junaluska, NC 28745
Date: Friday, July 24, 2026
Visitation: 11:00 a.m. โ 2:00 p.m.
Funeral Service: 3:00 p.m. - A procession to the graveside will follow immediately after the service.
