Charlotte Starnes Phillips, of Cumming, formerly of Decatur and Kingsport, Tenn., died Sept. 8, 2016.

Charlotte loved children and spent her professional life as a special education teacher and administrator.

She got her education and began teaching school while supporting her husband's sales career and raising her four children.

Because of her professionalism and strong work ethic, she eventually rose to the position of Deputy Superintendent of Forsyth County Schools. Yet, her professional accomplishments pale in comparison to the legacy of love and hope she leaves behind for all who knew her. She was devoted to her family, her work and "her kids," as she called each new group of students.

Charlotte's door was always open and she welcomed everyone without judgment.

Even years after her retirement, former students stayed in contact with "Ms. Charlotte" and recalled all Charlotte had done for them.

Her husband of 56 years, Beverly Edwin "Eddie" Phillips; her son, Scott Phillips; her granddaughter, Ginny Phillips; her parents, Wrightley E. and Ada McKinney Starnes; her sister, Nancy Starnes Allen, preceded her in death.

Survivors include her sons, B. Eddie II and Laura Phillips, Jeff and Deborah Phillips; daughter, Leigh Ann and David Hunt, all of Cumming; her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, B. E. III and Scout Phillips, Jessica and Josh Phillips Morgan, Samuel Phillips, Haleigh and Alan Phillips Funsten, David Aaron Hunt, Avery Hunt, Wylie Morgan, Evie Morgan, Jayce Funsten; brother, Wayne Starnes; various other relatives also survive.

A memorial service was held at 4 p.m. Sept. 11 with the Rev. Michael O'Neal officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations were requested made in Charlotte's name to the Special Olympics of Georgia, St. Jude's Children's Hospital or Georgia Relay for Life.

Ingram Funeral Home and Crematory of Cumming was in charge of the arrangements.