ATHENS – Jane Harris Eldridge passed away Tuesday, February 17, 2015, following a period of declining health.
Mrs. Eldridge was born September 8, 1928, in Macon, and was raised in Bradley, Jones County, Georgia. She was the daughter of the late Homer and Addie White Harris. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Erwin James “Doc” Eldridge; a sister, Frances Harris; and a brother, Homer Harris. She was a graduate of and salutatorian of her class at Jones County High School. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in English Education.
She served in several positions throughout her career at Beech Haven Baptist Church. She was a teacher and director of the church kindergarten program, and then worked in the church office, where she eventually became the full time office manager. She remained in that position until her retirement at age 70.
Mr. Eldridge was a charter member of Beech Haven Baptist Church, a member of the Co-Ed 70 and Up Sunday School class, and the Ruth Circle. She was a member of Phi Mu Sorority, the Athens Junior Assembly, and served on the first board of directors of the Athens YWCA.
This loving mother, grandmother, and great-great grandmother is survived by a daughter, Beth Eldridge Cathey (Richard “Skeet”), Jefferson; two sons, E.J. “Doc” Eldridge, III, (Sheri), Athens, and Frank Eldridge (Edie), Newnan; one granddaughter, Gini E. Reeve (Rett), Winston Salem, N.C.; three grandsons, E.J. “Doc” Eldridge IV (Amanda), Athens, Royce Eldridge, Atlanta, and Harris Eldridge, Atlanta; a great-granddaughter, Addie Eldridge, Athens, a nephew; and several nieces.
A memorial service will be held Monday, February 23, at 11 a.m., at Beech Haven Baptist Church. The family will receive friends with a reception in the church fellowship hall following the service.
In lieu flowers, the family suggests that memorials may be made to Beech Haven Baptist Church, Christian Concern Fund, 2390 W. Broad St., Athens, GA 30606.
Online condolences may be offered at www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com
Bernstein Funeral Home, Athens, is in charge of arrangements.