Betty Ellington, 92, longtime teacher

Some members of the Clarkston High School class of 1948 always took Betty Ellington out for her birthday.

It was their way of showing gratitude to the teacher who pushed them to excel.

“A lot of them have written letters that credit her with their success,” said Michael James Brewer of Jackson, a great-nephew and caretaker. “It meant the world to her when she made a breakthrough in a child.”

Betty Cleo Grant Ellington, 92, of Clarkston died Saturday from complications of a stroke at Sacred Journey Hospice in McDonough. The funeral is 11 a.m. Tuesday at Clarkston International Bible Church. A.S. Turner & Sons is in charge of arrangements.

Born in Alto, Mrs. Ellington was one of four sisters who attended Piedmont College. All became teachers. She taught in DeKalb County public schools for 40 years.

Mrs. Ellington had remained active until she suffered a stroke a few months ago. She still played the piano at Clarkston International Bible Church, where she’d been a member for decades.

“She never slowed down,” her great-nephew said. “She was full speed ahead.”

Additional survivors include a sister, Ruth G. Webster of Cornelia.