Gretchen Clasby

Gretchen Clasby, a beloved artist and entrepreneur, passed away on Wednesday, March 12th at the age of 80 in her home surrounded by loved ones. Gretchen was born on January 3rd in Tulsa, Oklahoma and has been a resident of Waynesville, NC for the past 30 years.

Gretchen’s artistic journey led her from Oklahoma to Texas and then to North Carolina where she displayed her art in studios and art shows. Her deep love for art and faith inspired her to create Sonshine Promises, a cherished Christian greeting card and gift line that touched the heart of many with its uplifting messages in all 50 states and most English and Spanish speaking countries. She was also known for beautiful fine art pieces of children, landscapes, and small animals. As the founder of Cedar Hill Studio, she provided a welcoming space where artists could showcase their work and find encouragement in their creative journeys. Her generosity and passion helped countless artists find the courage to share their talents with the world.

Gretchen is the daughter of the late Joe and Lucy Grant and was preceded in death by her older brother Joe Grant. She is survived by her daughter, Becky Chenier (John); son, Dan Jackson (Cheryl); son, Jeremiah Jackson (Kim); beloved chosen daughter, Joan Ashburn; brother, Jim Grant (Meg); sister, Lucy Grant (Mary); and sister, Sally Grant. She also leaves behind a legacy of love through her six grandchildren Jordan Chenier, Jared Chenier (Rachel), Bailey McLean (Adam), Noah Jackson, Thomas Jackson, and Jonah Jackson as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be held on Monday, March 17th at 6:00 pm at the Lakeview Church of the Nazarene in Lake Junaluska, NC. Gretchen requested that people wear blue, as it was her favorite color. The family will receive friends after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Reach of Haywood County or Students for Life of America in her memory.

Gretchen’s vibrant legacy will continue to shine through her artwork, her inspiring greeting cards, and the many lives she enriched by her generosity and her faith filled messages of hope.