Governor Nathan Deal has ordered flags in Cobb County lowered to half-staff Friday and Saturday in honor of Edna Umeh, a crossing guard killed last week in front of Lindley Middle School.

“Ms. Umeh proudly served the citizens of Cobb County and gave her life while ensuring the safe passage of students walking to school,” the executive order said.

Umeh was struck and killed by a driver last Thursday morning as children were arriving at school.

The family of Edna Umeh, 64, are asking the public to help them demand change.

Her death has sparked calls from her family and the community to address what many characterized as a dangerous stretch of Veterans Memorial Highway in Mableton.

Although the four-lane divided highway is a school zone, there are no lights or crosswalks at the entrance to Lindley. Umeh's family has said she was outspoken about her concern for the safety of students, parents and crossing guards.

Cobb County transportation officials are conducting a “safety audit” of the area.

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Helen Gilbert places flowers on her brother Eurie Martin’s grave at Camp Spring Baptist Church in Sandersville. Her brother died eight years ago. Three former Washington County deputies are accused of causing his death and are set to stand trial Monday. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez