Sally Wood Smith Eddy

Sally Wood Smith Eddy, born on the 29th of May, 1949, to William and Mary Kate Wood Smith in Ocala, Florida, gracefully departed from this world on January 18, 2025, at her beloved residence in Tifton. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hazen Y. Eddy, who died on October 30, 2007, along with her parents and her sister, Susan Murray. 

Sally, known affectionately as “SaSa” to her grandchildren, was a nurturing mother, grandmother, and devoted friend. Her life was one marked by her dedication to her family and community. As a guiding light for her loved ones, she took immense pride in her accomplishments. She started her teaching career in Williston, Florida, and taught elementary and middle school in Waycross, Georgia until 1994, when she moved to Tifton. She retired as a middle school teacher from the Tift County Board of Education in 2009, where she taught Georgia History and, according to her students, tried to instill her love for the great state of Georgia in all of them.

SaSa loved to cook for her family and spend time with them and her friends. She enjoyed being a grandmother and helping Katie with her boys. She loved the University of Florida, where she graduated with her bachelor’s in education, and was a member of the Sigma Kappa Sorority. She later graduated from Valdosta State University with her Master’s in middle grades education and, she was among the first group of Georgia Master Teachers. Florida Gator football and her Boston Terrier, Gracie were two of her favorite things.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Katie Banks, and son-in-law, Steve Banks; her son, Matt Eddy, and his wife, Bambi; her cherished grandchildren; Carter Stone, Kaden Stone, William Banks, Alex Banks, and Ryan Murphy; her brother, Charlie Smith, and his wife Janet, her brother-in-law, Larry Murray, along with a host of nieces and nephews. Each of them carries forward her legacy of warmth, humor, and tenacity.

As we reflect on the beautiful life of Sally Eddy, we celebrate her indomitable spirit, her unwavering love, and the countless moments she gifted us. Though she now rests peacefully, her heart will forever echo in the laughter of her grandchildren, the embrace of her family, and the memories woven into the fabric of our lives.

A graveside memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 3:00 P.M. at Oakridge Cemetery. A celebration of her life reception will be held at 4:00 P. M. at Steve and Katie’s home following the graveside memorial service. 

In lieu of flowers,  donations may be made in her honor to Hospice of Tiftarea, 618 N. Central Ave., Tifton, GA 31794

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements