Edith Hartman Coley

Edith Hartman Coley, 75, of Athens peacefully passed away on June 25, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on February 15, 1948, at the U.S. Naval Hospital in San Diego, California to the late Margaret Printy Hartman and CDR Willard Robert Hartman. She is survived by her daughter, Christine Coley McCommons, her son-in-law Brooks McCommons, and her three adoring grandchildren, Neely McCommons, Bennett McCommons, and Banks McCommons, all who lovingly called her "E." Edith is also survived by her devoted friend and longtime companion, Donald Andrews; her “sister” Karla Andrews Murphy (Jim); five younger brothers, Bill Hartman (Judy), Chuck Hartman (Nancy), Jim Hartman (Carol), Jeff Hartman (Susan), and Randall Hartman (Carlotta); a special aunt, Bernice King; nieces, Meg Hartman, Samantha Hartman, and nephew Grayson Hartman.

Edith graduated from the University of Georgia in 1970 and dedicated her life to teaching. The majority of her 30-year career was spent as a fifth-grade teacher in Oglethorpe County before retiring in 2002. She held a special place in her heart for her former students and colleagues, many of whom became dear friends.

Edith's passion for books and reading was evident, but it was unanimously agreed that her greatest delight was downright spoiling her grandchildren, indulging them with love and attention beyond measure.

Throughout her battle with Parkinson's Disease, Edith demonstrated remarkable strength and determination. The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Compassionate Care Hospice, the caring team at The Overlook Senior Living in Monroe, Edith's exceptional caregivers, Antionette Lawrence and Tammy Muckle, and to Rev. Bill Stacey for his thoughtful ministry during Edith's final years.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Books for Keeps – an organization spreading the joy of books and building bright, literate futures for a generation of readers; PO Box 49761, Athens, GA 30604; or to the Parkinson’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases Support Fund, University of Georgia Foundation, 1 Press Place, Athens, GA 30602.

A memorial service will be held at Lord and Stephens Funeral Home West, located at 1211 Jimmy Daniel Rd., Watkinsville, GA, on Friday, June 30 at 10:30 AM. The family will receive friends at the conclusion of the service.

Lord and Stephens, West is in charge of arrangements.

www.lordandstephens.com