Melissa Ellen Olson

Ellen graduated from the University of West Georgia with a degree in Education and later obtained her Master’s Degree. She taught middle school and high school for 30 years in Coweta County. She was fond of all her students and enjoyed their successes in life beyond school – some became teachers, professional football and baseball players, and pop-star wives.

Ellen loved traveling and had the amazing opportunity to explore all 50 states, many National and State Parks, and other countries including Russia, Sweden, Poland, Denmark, and Israel. Her love for geology and history and human experiences through travel was an inspiration to her friends and family. She took many of her nieces and nephews on great adventures that they will cherish for a lifetime.

Ellen was an avid collector of all things Smiley Face, pink flamingos, and Smokey the Bear. She loved reading, playing Jeopardy, and Keanu Reeves…not necessarily in that order!

She is survived by her Daddy - Wayne Olson, Mama - Fay Olson-Pinkard (stepdad Gary Pinkard), and all her brothers and sisters: Carl Olson Jr (Shirley); Kari Ballestracci (Kelly); Dodi Olson; Tobey Olson (Dan Frey); Joseph Olson (LeAnne); and Jesse Olson. Ellen also has many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews that will miss her tremendously.

Instead of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be sent in Ellen’s honor to

Re-Member – a volunteer organization that provides much needed services to the Pine Ridge Reservation, South Dakota. The link for memorial donations is: https://www.re-member.org/memorial-gifts

Family and friends are invited to a gathering at the home of Kari and Kelly Ballestracci and Wayne Olson on Sunday, March 16, 2025, from 12 noon to 7 pm. Call Dodi Olson @ 770-877-0227 for address information. Feel free to come when you can and stay as long as you are able.

“One Tin Soldier Rides Away”