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Amy Anderson Shorter, 50, of Brooks, went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 4, 2021.
Amy was born in Atlanta on May 1, 1971. She grew up in Jonesboro and graduated from Jonesboro High School. Amy continued her studies at Atlanta Christian College where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree with a major in Education and a minor in Bible. She earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education and a Specialist Degree in Administration from West Georgia College. Amy was a special education teacher, general education teacher and instructional coach for Clayton and Coweta counties for 29 years until her retirement in 2019.
Amy was a longtime resident of Brooks, where she and her husband own and operate Brooks Christmas Tree Farm and Longleaf LLC. She was a devoted pet mama to Hank and Samantha (Sam). Amy was a devout member of Brooks Christian Church. Teaching, particularly special needs students, was truly her life’s passion. She was tolerant, patient and a wonderful example to her students. She had compassion and empathy for others. Amy touched countless lives through her love of Christ and devotion to education. Her smile truly lit up any room. She had an undeniable warmth and brightness about her. Amy loved and was loved deeply by her family, friends and countless students.
Amy was preceded in death by her father, Robert Lee “Bob” Anderson, and niece, Parker Ann. She is survived by her husband of 21 years: Scott Shorter of Brooks; mother: Janis Hughes Anderson of Brooks; sister and brother-in-law: Virginia Lee Overton and Trace Lee Overton of Stewart, TN; nieces: Payton Marie Bell, Preslee Hope Bell, Addie Bell and Lanie Overton; great-niece: Piper Ann Bell; aunt: Susan Jolly of Hampton; beloved canine pets: Hank and Samantha (Sam).
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 7, 2021 at Brooks Christian Church, 969 Hwy 85 Connector, Brooks, GA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Amy’s memory to Brooks Christian Church or The Pink Posse Foundation of Georgia. The Shorter family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 1086 Hwy 54 West, Fayetteville. Messages of condolence may be left at www.GeorgiaCremation.com.
Christi Bedwell says
I feel so blessed to have crossed paths with Amy while I taught at Welch. Not only was she a wealth of knowledge but she was an unbelievably kind person. She made my son Owen feel so special when they’d pass in the hallway and she always asked about his baseball games. The world was a better place with her in it. She will be dearly missed.
Leslie Rummel says
I met Amy five years ago at Welch Elementary. What I remember first about her was her warm smile. I also remember how she could “Calm the storm” in any classroom she entered! She was anointed with special powers over kids! They just adored her kind, gentle. and loving ways! She’d sit with the kids I’m a circle. and tell them to imagine that they were holding a crystal ball!! They could create anything good with it!
She was truly one-of-kind! Her last words to me were, “I love and miss you!”
“Amy, I’ll see you in Heaven, precious soul!”
Love and miss you too!”
Tasha Lachapelle says
All the words I have feel inadequate. She was tremendous, a supernova, a force to be reckoned with with her overwhelming power to love everyone. I’m so blessed to have known her and called her friend. My hearts ache for you all and you will continue to be in my prayers.
Patricia Ezell says
It is the saddest of hearts and disbelief that we have lost the sweetest life force ever. Amy has always been a force to be reckoned with. She was truly a bright spot in any situation. My heart grieves with Janis, Virginia and Scott as they travel this path. Amy, you were loved by anyone who ever had the privilege of knowing you. Rest well, and give your Daddy a hug..
KristieStewart says
I met Amy while we both taught at Eastside Elementary about 2 years before she married Scott! She was teaching prek and I was teaching Kindergarten. I remembered how impressed I was at she saw the good in any situation and anybody! She was SUCH a hard worker & when we got to start teaching again about 5 years ago. She was definitely one-of-a-mind!! I absolutely adored and loved her so very much! ❤️
Mysty Langley says
Amy was one of the first smiles I saw when I came to Welch. We often talked about the Bible and so much more. Her smile, laugh, knowledge, openness and friendship was something that I feel blessed to have witnessed. She will be truly missed. She is with her Lord and Savior and although she is missed here on earth, she is present with her Lord. Truly…one of the best around!!!
Kathy Rivers says
I met Amy at Eastside elementary where we both worked. She was teaching kindergarten and I was a paraprofessional. My youngest daughter Kelsey was in her class. Amy was such a wonderful teacher. Not only that, she was an amazing person. Her love, kindness and spirit always showed through. I haven’t talked to Amy in a long time, but, I will never forget her and the talks, laughs we use to share. Thank you Amy for your light on this world and all the children that you touched. Heaven gained a beautiful soul and we will miss you here.
I am so sorry to the family and I keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers
Paula Church says
Amy and I taught together at Eastside. She was one of the sweetest, most driven, compassionate people, who saw good in everyone. I admired her determination not to let her disability get in the way of her dreams. She always had a smile on her face and lots of love in her heart. Many, many students and adults were blessed to know Amy. She will be missed greatly! My love and prayers to her family.
Donna Schilly says
Amy was such a blessing to me! She was a friend from Welch that always had a contagious smile. I feel very blessed to have known her. She will be missed and she will be remembered for all the lives she touched.
Jim Browning Family says
Our hearts are broken . She was such a sweet soul. Heavens gain is our loss.
Dale Shank says
My heart is hurting for the loss of one of the best examples of Gods love. Amy smiled all the time and was willing to help anyone and everyone. Amy was always there when the boys and I lived in Atlanta. Even after one of her leg surgeries, she always smiled. It was extremely easy to see Gods love. Now she is walking around heaven with perfect legs and she is laughing with her dad. We love you both Virginia and Janis.
Dale Shank says
My heart is hurting for the loss of one of the best examples of Gods love. Amy smiled all the time and was willing to help anyone and everyone. Amy was always there when the boys and I lived in Atlanta. Even after one of her leg surgeries, she always smiled. She made it extremely easy to see God in her life. Now she is walking around heaven with perfect legs and she is laughing with her dad. We love you both Virginia and Janis.
Dale Shank says
My heart is hurting for the loss of one of the best examples of Gods love. Amy smiled all the time and was willing to help anyone and everyone. Amy was always there when the boys and I lived in Atlanta. She made it extremely easy to see God in her life. Now she is walking around heaven with perfect legs and she is laughing with her dad. We love you both Virginia and Janis.
Dianna Wasserman says
I watched Amy and Virginia grow up. We were neighbors and friends. I considered the Andersons our family. Amy was an old soul and took each challenge she had with faith and positivity. I never saw her when she wasn’t smiling and excited about something. She was the happiest of children and grew into a happy, loving and compassionate woman. She gave love wherever she went. She was truly an angel on earth. She touched my heart and I will never forget her. RIP sweet girl.
Dale Shank says
My heart is hurting for the loss of one of the best examples of Gods love. Amy smiled all the time and was willing to help anyone and everyone. Amy was always there when the boys and I lived in Atlanta. She made it extremely easy to see Christ in everything she did. Now she is walking around heaven with perfect legs and she is laughing with her dad. We love you both Virginia and Janis.
Cheryl Criscenti says
Amy took me under her wing as a true friend when I moved to New an and taught at Eastside. I remember her lau gh as if it were just yesterday. We had so many great times together. I don”t think she ever knew how I needed her at that time she. I moved! Amy truly meant the world to me!
ANGEL DAVIS says
Amy was dear to me and my family. We made it a family tradition to visit the tree farm every year for Christmas and cut down our tree with my kids. My kids are grown up and last year I was able to take my grandson and introduce him to Amy. As always, she was so kind and friendly. Working with her was a highlight. She was always encouraging and positive when I always wasn’t. She will be missed by me and my family.
Amanda Nelligan says
I met Amy when we taught together at Eastside. She amazed me with her dedication and her positivity. She could find the rainbow in any storm. She was very special, and she will be greatly missed.
Trish Sperberg says
I met Amy when my daughter was at Welch. Never saw her without a big smile on her face. Such a beautiful and positive soul! Rest In Peace, Amy! Continued prayers for the family!!
Martha Dykes says
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is a message of joy, even in the midst of seemingly endless suffering. God does not promise to keep us from all sadness, but He does promise that His joy is always waiting for us on the other side….KJV Psalm 30:5
For His anger endureth but a moment; in His favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. To all family and dear friends…. ” On the other side of your sadness” joy comes in the morning. Each persons morning may differ, each persons morning make take longer than anothers, but God’s Word is True, even if it doesn’t feel like it at this time. You morning of joy will return. Sending much love and prayers to all of Amys precious family. Hold on to Gods Word. Your morning will come.
Susan A Griffin says
Amy was so sweet and kind, each time I visited Welch elementary she would hug my neck and make everyone feel so welcome. I think of her as being at the right hand of Jesus now and surrounded by angels. I love you Amy and you will truly be missed, may the Lord comfort and ease your family’s pain.
Love
Suzi Griffin
Kevin Evans says
Although I only knew Amy for a few years at Welch, her passion for teaching students to read and her ability to form relationships with students was impressive and amazing. Her daily perseverance was evident in her morning greetings, smile, and friendliness. Amy was a very special person and I am blessed to have shared time on this earth with her.
Ramona Roller says
Amy was always so nice and friendly to us parents at Welch. My daughters also loved her. May her light always shine bright.
Patty Burks says
I remember seeing Amy at Eastside Elementary and in the general public. I can’t think of a day when she didn’t have a smile on her face. Earth lost a great spiritual lady and heaven gained an angel. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Cathy Walker says
What a very special lady. You were loved by all who had the privilege of knowing you. And I was lucky enough to be one of those people. I will always remember that smile. You will be greatly missed.
Diana Crain says
Can’t believe this has happened 2 our beautiful Amy, my heart is broken, all our prayers r with u an the family
Cindy and Larry Lee says
Amy was a rare and precious spirit whose bright light can never be extinguished. To know her was to love her. To see her with her students was to see her legacy being built, one sweet face at a time. Amy never touched a life, child or adult, that was not made better by her example. Her sense of joy made us all happier; her strength made us all stronger. So now, Heaven’s light shines brighter, and if we all follow in Amy’s brave footsteps, we will keep going, keep helping, keep smiling, and keep loving, even though we are heartbroken. Amy would have it no other way.
Our prayers are with you Janis, Virginia, and Scott, and all of Amy’s family. God bless Amy and all who love her.
Cindy and Larry Lee
Jennifer Greer says
Working with Amy at Welch was such a blessing! When she came into my class, she connected with the students, taught them things they didn’t even know that they needed, and had patience like I had never seen. She cracked jokes & made me laugh every day, helped me in any way possible when I was a new teacher there, & simply enjoyed life and all of its moments. She will be missed so much. My thoughts & prayers are with her family & friends ❤
Glenda Portwood says
This little light of mine I’m gonna let it shine-and boy did she ever let it shine. It made our lights dim in comparison. Well done thy good and faithful servant, enter in to the joys of the Lord. Amen and Amen.
Kelley Cataldo says
I don’t have words to adequately express my condolences to this family!
I met Amy when we were both just entering into young adulthood at my grandmother’s church. I remember a few great conversations she & I had: she impressed me greatly and her smile was certainly amazing.
Just a few years ago, I was thrilled to learn one of my coworkers was her sister!
Amy & I connected on Facebook and I was so glad we did. ♥️
Amy was a lovely individual and I take great solace in knowing she was a true servant of our Lord and is now with Him.
Linda Vaughn says
Amy impacted so many lives without even realizing her positive impact. That was the beauty of Amy – She was humble, well-loved and supported by her family, and she extended love to others through her gracious, unforgettable smile. Her life was one worth emulating as she honored the Lord in her daily walk.
Judie Paxton says
Janis my heart hurts so badly for you with this tragedy that caused the death of sweet precious Amy. I have prayed many prayers for you and your family. Your strong faith community in Brooks will walk along side of you and provide comfort. I know the days ahead will be painful and I pray for God to carry you when you are unable to stand.
Amy touched so many lives. She will never be forgotten
Lee and Lisa Sellers says
Lee and I lived Amy from the moment we met her at Atlanta Christian College. She and I would go work out at Worlds Gym and Lee would cook dinner. It was our first year of marriage and Amy just seemed like part of our family. We dearly loved her! Thoughts, love and prayers for to all of you💗💗💗
Christy Teffenhart says
Amy was a bright shining star. I never remember seeing her mad or upset, always so positive. She was so close with her family and was truly a wonderful person from a wonderful family. She will be missed. I’m so terribly sorry for your loss.
Wendy Blankenship says
The rarest of humans. Always beating the odds and pushing through every challenge with this glow of determination. She inspired everyone who met her to try harder, to live brighter, to love louder and never complain.
Amy Anderson you made the world a better place and will be missed by everyone who ever had the pleasure to see your sparkle. She was truly angelic.
Janis and Virginia and family our prayers are with you.
Evelyn Florin says
My prayers are with the family to find comfort in knowing Amy was an angel in disguise on earth. She touched so many lives including mine. It was a pleasure to see her excel in her leadership degree at UWG. I was so proud of her. She was an inspiration to all of us. Virginia, my heart breaks for your parents and you.
Sherri Babb says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Amy was a joy to know! An inspiration, a treasure and well loved.
Denise McNair says
I have just found out about Amy’s passing. You all will continue to be in our hearts, on our minds, and in our prayers.
Amy was a wonderful example of Christian love for everyone with whom she came in contact. I had the privilege of working with Amy and observing her as she taught her students and interacted with colleagues with integrity and humbleness. May her smile light up the heavens as she has been welcomed into the presence of God. Heaven now has another angel singing in its choir.
Andee Sparrow says
I am just now learning of this very sad news. I don’t go onto Facebook that much anymore. Otherwise, I do believe I would have seen this sooner. My deepest apologies and regrets for my timing. I am thankful tho for a dear friend that did make me aware of this news and now I’m here trying to find the words I need and want to say, but can’t seem to find them and express exactly how I feel.
The Anderson family was an extension of my family when we were growing up. The Sparrows and The Anderson’s attended church together, went to functions together, had family gatherings, hung out on the weekends, bbq’d, fellowshiped, and just had a great time growing up together and learning about the Lord.
Bob and Janis were close with my parents, Jack and Becky. Virginia and I went to school together and were on the cheerleading team together. Amy was my older brother, Lance, best friend. They were always together hamming it up and having a good time. We made so many wonderful memories together that I will NEVER forget… EVER!
The Anderson family is one of a kind and special. I hold every single one of them in my heart in a special place. Bob coached me thru some very rough times in my adult years just by keeping in touch thru FB.
I kept up with Amy thru FB as well and was always over joyed with all she had done with her life. Amy always made me laugh with her own infectious laugh and would team up with Lance in giving me and Virginia a hard time.
Amy, you are a light that will never go out because your light will remain in so many hearts you’ve touched while we were so blessed to have known you. You were an amazing friend and person all together. You are dearly missed and a piece of my heart forever broken knowing you’re gone. I do know that you have a special place with our Lord and Savior and 1000 jewels adorn your crown. I love you and will miss you dearly!
– Andee Sparrow
Adelaide Tolley says
Mrs. Amy was one of my dad’s friends and she was one of the staff members at Welch Elementary School. I just heard this news about Amy passing, and I felt like I needed to write this. Mrs. Shorter was always so kind to me and every time I saw her she would give me the biggest hug. Her just being there in the building and seeing her smile at me and the students every day was a blessing. I was thinking about going and seeing her recently cause I haven’t seen her in 3 years. I didn’t get the chance to see her one last time. I love your Mrs. Shorter and I hope I get to hug to again.