Mrs. Lauren Stewart Wilson, 32, of Hartwell, passed away Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital surrounded by her family.

Born on May 9, 1991, in Snellville, GA, Lauren was the daughter of Drs. R. Allen Stewart and Tracey Young Stewart. Lauren received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Erskine College where she played volleyball and basketball; she completed her masters and specialist degrees at Piedmont University. She started her career teaching Pre-K, kindergarten, 3rd and 5th grade at South Hart Elementary. She then taught for SAIL (School for Art Infused Learning) in Augusta for a year before returning to Hart County. She was currently teaching 2nd grade at North Hart Elementary. Lauren's influence transcended the classroom as she was a beloved basketball, soccer, and volleyball coach at the middle school, varsity and club levels. She was a member of the Hartwell First Methodist Church.

This is an extraordinary loss for our school district as well as the community. Lauren was an outstanding educator and friend. She understood the power of relationships and consistently exuded joy to those around her. Lauren's vibrant personality and smile will never be forgotten," said Superintendent Jennifer Carter. North Hart Elementary School Principal, Christina Weir goes on to say, "Lauren was a remarkable individual – educator, coach, and friend, who left an indelible mark on the lives she touched. She not only forged strong relationships but also exemplified effectiveness in both the classroom and on the field/court. Within the four walls of her classroom, she created an environment where students thrived. Her teaching methods were infused with creativity, which ignited curiosity in her students. She was always willing to try something new and consistently sought ways to meet the needs of her students. As a coach, she believed in the power of discipline, teamwork, and determination. Her effectiveness was unparalleled, as she not only imparted knowledge and skills but transformed lives, leaving an everlasting impact on all those blessed enough to know her,"

Survivors include her husband: Chris Wilson of Hartwell; daughter: Dorothy Lou Wilson; her parents: Drs. R. Allen & Tracey Y. Stewart of Hartwell; two sisters: Taylar Lynne Stewart of Augusta, GA and Dr. Ashton Stewart Hall (Baron) of N. Augusta, SC; and her maternal grandparents: Dr. Timothy and Lynne Young of Augusta, GA. Mrs. Wilson is preceded in death by her paternal grandmother: Saralynn Stewart; paternal great-grandparents: Alton & Frances Davis; and her maternal great-grandparents: Richard & Dorothy "Dodi" Young.

A Celebration of Life for Mrs. Lauren Stewart Wilson will be held Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary of the First Baptist Church of Hartwell with Rev. Beau Swafford and Dr. Hugh Kirby officiating. A reception will follow the service at the Hartwell First Methodist Church Fellowship Hall from 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. She will be cremated following the service. The family request that all who attend the service wear red & black clothes.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lauren Stewart Wilson Benefit Fund c/o Pinnacle Bank, 135 E. Franklin Street, Hartwell, GA 30643. Donations can also be made to any local Pinnacle Bank branch.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements. On-line condolences can be sent to the family at www.stricklandfh.com.