Lauren McWhorter Coile Sr.

Lauren McWhorter Coile, Sr., beloved former Mayor of Athens, Ga., passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, at the age of 92. A dedicated public servant, community leader, and cherished friend, Lauren leaves behind a legacy of integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the people he served.

Born on January 6, 1933, in Winterville, Ga., Lauren devoted much of his life to improving the lives of others and to promoting the city he loved. Serving as Athens Mayor from 1980-1988, he was active in various civic and business organizations including the Georgia Municipal Association, serving as its President in 1985; the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce as its President in 1977; and the Athens YMCA, serving in various capacities including President, Vice President and Secretary throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Lauren was dedicated to the "Classic City." He was a founding member of the Mayor's Committee for the Employment of the Handicapped in 1980. During this time, he had membership in the Athens/Clarke County Industrial Development Authority; the Athens Downtown Development Authority; and the Athens Area Industrial Management Group.

He was the recipient of various honors and awards, including the Distinguished Service Award from the Northeast Georgia Area Planning and Development Commission in 1982. The Georgia General Assembly recognized Lauren in 1985 with a Resolution for Outstanding Service to the State of Georgia.

In addition to his civic duties, Lauren's business experience was vast. He started in auto sales with J. Swanton Ivy in 1957 and was President of Ivy-Coile Motors until 1985. He was a member of the Board of Directors of Athens Federal Savings Bank/Athens First Bank and Trust from 1970-1998.

Lauren graduated from Athens High School in 1949. He earned a business degree from the University of Georgia in 1958 where he lettered in cross country and track and field.

Lauren faithfully served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1951-1957, serving as a fighter pilot and flight instructor.

Beyond his public role, Lauren was a devoted husband and parent. He is predeceased in death by his parents, Broadus Coile and Laura McWhorter Coile, and wife, Frances Abney Coile. He is survived by his sons: Lauren M. (Mac) Coile, Jr. (Jennifer) and Morris Coile, along with several nieces and nephews.

Upon his retirement, Lauren resided in Sanibel, Fla., a place where he and Frances made many new friends. They enjoyed boating and being at the beach. He especially enjoyed his morning coffee outings with the "Sanibel Think Tank," in which he was a member for more than 30 years.

The family will hold a private service of celebration.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Athens YMCA, 915 Hawthorne Ave., Athens, Ga. 30606.

Lauren's life was a testament to service, and his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.