Paula Rogers Jones

Coach Paula Jones, a celebrated educator and coach, passed away on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at her home in Sharpsburg, Georgia, surrounded by love and family. She was 74 years old. Born on July 4, 1950, in Mullins, South Carolina, Paula Rogers Jones was the beloved daughter of Warren and Robbie Rogers. She grew up in Mullins with her siblings, Heny and Gayle, and excelled as a student-athlete. Her determination and talent earned her a place at Winthrop College, where she played basketball and achieved numerous accolades, including captaining her team and leading them to a state championship. Paula dedicated her life to education, earning her master's degree in Physical Education from West Georgia University in 1993. Over her 41-year career as a physical education teacher and coach, she inspired generations of students and athletes, leaving a legacy of excellence and perseverance. She began her teaching and coaching career in Lake City, Florida, and later coached at schools in Ohio, South Carolina, and Georgia. Paula achieved tremendous success as a coach, amassing over 518 career wins as a varsity girls' basketball coach. Her teams were frequently recognized at regional and state levels, winning championships and earning her numerous coaching awards, including Georgia's Winningest Coach Award and the prestigious Russell Athletic/WBCA Victory Club Award. Beyond basketball, Paula made significant contributions to volleyball, softball, and track programs, pioneering and excelling in these sports as a coach. Her ability to lead and inspire was evident not only in her teams' achievements but also in her role as a mentor to countless young athletes. At East Coweta High School, where she spent the final 25 years of her career, Paula served as the Physical Education Department Head and volunteered with the Coweta County Special Olympics. Her impact extended far beyond the court, touching the lives of her students, colleagues, and community members. In 2015, Paula was inducted into the Coweta Sports Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to her storied career and enduring contributions to athletics and education. Paula is survived by her loving husband of 30 years, Griff Jones; her son, Lee (Hannah) Heaberlin; and her cherished granddaughters. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who will be remembered for her unwavering spirit, compassionate heart, and fierce dedication to her family and students. A celebration of Paula's life will be held at 11 am Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Turin Methodist Church. The visitation is Wednesday between 4-8 pm at McKoon Funeral Home, 38 Jackson St, Newnan. Her family wishes to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this time. The interment service is 4 pm Sunday, December 29, 2024 at Macedonia Methodist Church Cemetery, 402 N. Main St, Mullins, SC 29574 In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Paula Jones Scholarship through West Georgia University online at https://giving.westga.edu/prj/ Condolences may be expressed online at www.mckoon.com McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory (770) 253-4580

Paula Rogers Jones

July 4, 1950 - December 12, 2024