Florence Elizabeth McCorlew passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, January 26, 2023 in Columbus, Georgia. Visitation will be at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 30, 2023 with a Memorial Service to follow at 1:00 p.m. in the Edgewood Hall Chapel of Striffler-Hamby.
Florence was born on March 16, 1918 in Liverpool, New York. She was preceded in death by her father, Albert Earthman Lepinske, and her mother, Mable Elizabeth Lepinske, both of Liverpool, New York. Florence was born an only child. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, Thomas James McCorlew (Sr), of Cleveland, Texas, and her grandson, Matthew Thomas McCorlew, of Gainesville, Georgia.
Florence is survived by her three children; Thomas (Tom) Albert McCorlew of Gainesville, Georgia, Thomas James (Jimmy) McCorlew, Jr. of Columbus, Georgia, and Cathy McCorlew Ahr and her husband, Thomas (Tom) Jeffrey Ahr, of Columbus, Georgia.
In her primary school years, Florence skipped the 2nd grade and then graduated with scholastic honors from Liverpool High School. She received her undergraduate degree from Syracuse University. Upon marrying her husband, she moved to Columbus, Georgia, where she received her Master’s degree from Auburn University. Later she earned 3 Specialist degrees from Auburn University as well. She was also inducted into Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional society for women educators.
Florence taught at Columbus High School from 1959 until 1988, teaching English and later transitioning into counseling as the Head of the Guidance Department. She was also a member of First Presbyterian Church and taught a children’s Sunday school class for many years.
Florence had a love for life. Her hobbies included fishing, traveling, working in her yard, and reading. She was a devoted wife and a loving mother, and will be missed deeply by her family.
The family would like thank Dr. A. Varner and our team from Columbus Hospice – Debbie, Kristen and Allison - for their compassion and care. With heartfelt gratitude, the family extends their utmost appreciation to our loyal and loving caregivers – Deborah, Metissa, Destiny, Mary, Fran and Barbara, and to former caregivers – Arlyn, Debra and Amanda.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the McCorlew family.
