News Summary
LaWanda Ransom, a cherished educator and community leader in Savannah, has passed away at the age of 67. Known for her dedication to education and local service, she leaves behind a lasting legacy. LaWanda’s remarkable journey included significant roles in education and active participation in various community organizations. Friends and community members are invited to pay their respects at a celebration of her life on August 23.
Savannah, GA – Mrs. Eddie LaWanda Ransom, a beloved educator and prominent figure in the Savannah community, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, at the age of 67, surrounded by her family. LaWanda’s contributions to education and her unwavering commitment to community service have left an indelible mark on the lives of many.
Born on July 16, 1958, in Statesboro, Georgia, LaWanda dedicated her life to God, family, and education. She graduated from Savannah High School in 1976 before pursuing higher education at Savannah State College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. LaWanda furthered her academic career by obtaining a Master of Education in Elementary Education from Armstrong State College, followed by an Education Specialist Degree in Supervision and Leadership from Georgia Southern University.
LaWanda began her teaching career at Butler Elementary School, where she worked for over 18 years and was highly recognized as Teacher of the Year. Her passion and dedication to education led her to become assistant principal at both Windsor Forest Elementary and White Bluff Elementary. Eventually, she served as the principal of Hesse Elementary, demonstrating effective leadership and a commitment to high educational standards. LaWanda also held key positions as the Director of 21st Century Programs and Director of Pre-K Programs, significantly impacting students and educators alike during her tenure.
A lifelong member of Thankful Missionary Baptist Church, LaWanda played several vital roles, including church secretary, youth ministry advisor, and Sunday School teacher. She also served as First Lady at Second Bryan Missionary Baptist Church in Savannah and Beach Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Midway, alongside her late husband. Her faith influenced her service and commitment to uplifting the community.
In addition to her church involvement, LaWanda was actively engaged with several organizations. She was a proud member of the Prince Hall Masons & Eastern Stars OES Prince Hall Chapter #258 and was involved with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Gamma Sigma Omega Chapter. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom as she participated in the National Writing Project and the Kindred Book Club, showcasing her dedication to fostering a love for literacy and writing.
LaWanda also served on the boards of various community organizations, including the Habersham Branch YMCA, Dandy Youth Development, and Hodge Memorial Daycare, reflecting her desire to make a difference in the lives of young people and their families. Known for her steadfastness, humor, generosity, and mentoring qualities, LaWanda was a guiding light for many in her community.
A celebration of LaWanda’s life is scheduled for August 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Thankful Baptist Church in Savannah, GA. Friends and community members are invited to attend to honor her legacy. A viewing will take place on August 22, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Adams Funeral Services. Following the service on August 23, LaWanda will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Abbey West in Garden City, GA.
Mrs. Eddie LaWanda Ransom’s legacy of faith, leadership, and love will continue to inspire the Savannah community for years to come. Her dedication to education and her unwavering commitment to service embody the spirit of community and fellowship.
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Additional Resources
- Savannah Tribune: Community Celebrates the Legacy of Mrs. LaWanda Ransom
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- Adams Funeral Services: Ms. Eddie Ransom
- Google Search: Mrs. Eddie LaWanda Ransom
- Legacy.com: E. Ransom Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- Savannah Tribune: Gamma Sigma Omega’s Ivy Pearl Scholarship
- Google News: Education and Community Service
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
