Jacqueline "Jackie" Woods Turk

Mrs. Jacqueline “Jackie” Woods Turk, beloved mother, grandmother, educator, and faithful servant of the Lord, peacefully entered into eternal rest in the early morning hours of Tuesday, May 5, 2026, exactly where she longed to be—sitting in her favorite chair in her living room. Her passing was gentle and without suffering, a blessing for which her family gives thanks to God.

Born on February 12, 1938, in Athens, Georgia, Jackie lived a life marked by grace, devotion, intellect, and service to others. She spent the last thirty years in Bogart, Georgia, near the hometown she loved so dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Sue Woods of Athens, Georgia; her beloved husband, Dr. A.L. “Chip” Turk, DVM; and her cherished grandson, Brendon Hope.

Jackie leaves behind a loving family who will forever treasure her memory. She is survived by her son, Todd Turk, and his wife, Alana Hill Turk, of Elberta, Alabama, along with their children, Garrett Walker of Tacoma, Washington, and Jacob “J Ben” Turk of Athens, Georgia. She is also survived by her daughter, Terri Turk Hope, and her husband, John Hope, of Atlanta, Georgia, and their children, Duncan Hope and Shannon Hope.

She is further survived by her brothers, Harry Woods of Athens, Georgia, and John Woods of Dallas, Georgia; and by her sister, Judy Woods of Statham, Georgia.

Jackie graduated from the University of Georgia in 1960 with a degree in Education specializing in English. Dedicated to lifelong learning, she later earned her Master’s Degree from Georgia State University while attending night school and teaching full-time at Meadowview Elementary School in DeKalb County.

In the fall of 1973, Jackie accepted a teaching position at the newly opened Cedar Grove High School, where she would go on to inspire generations of students through her love of literature, language, and learning. Affectionately known simply as “Mrs. Turk,” she taught eighth-grade English for many years before eventually leading a senior-level elective English course. Over the course of more than thirty years in education, she became deeply loved and respected by countless students, parents, and colleagues. Her excellence in teaching was recognized multiple times when she was honored as Teacher of the Year.

Following retirement, Jackie continued her life of service as a devoted volunteer at St. Mary’s Hospital. She also embraced opportunities to travel abroad with dear friends and fellow educators, creating treasured memories throughout her retirement years.

Above all, Jackie was a woman of enduring faith. She was a dedicated member of Chapelwood Methodist Church, where she worshiped and served with a joyful heart for more than nearly 30 years.

A memorial service and celebration of Jackie’s life will be held on Saturday, May 9, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Chapelwood Methodist Church. A reception for family and friends will follow on the church grounds from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Jackie’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched as a teacher, mentor, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her kindness, wisdom, unwavering faith, and gentle spirit will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to Saint Mary's Hospital or Chapelwood United Methodist Church in memory of Jackie.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.