Eloise Wrice Sorrell

Eloise Wrice Sorrell died peacefully on September 14, 2020 in Valdosta, GA at the age of 66 years old. She was born to the late Robert M. and the late Geraldine Wrice on November 14, 1953.

Eloise graduated from Middle Tennessee State University and Valdosta State College with a Specialist degree in Educational Science. Eloise married George Sorrell. They were married over 40+ years.  After moving to Lakeland, GA, Eloise began working for Lanier County Schools as a Teacher for 30+ years. With hard work and dedication, Eloise became the first black principal in the schools and later the first black Superintendent over the schools. The couple welcomed 3 children into their home: Justin, Ashley, and Derek. Eloise’s children remember her as an accomplished, driven, loving, and nurturing mother who encouraged them to be family-oriented and pursue their goals.

Eloise was accomplished at keeping family together, whether it was immediate family or beyond. Eloise always found time to make sure family understood the importance of having one another. Eloise was a master at maintaining family and friend relationships. Eloise had no enemies in her eyes. Eloise became a member of the family church, New Bryant Baptist Church. Here is where Eloise gained her understanding for loving and for caring for people outside of herself. Eloise has touched many lives. Eloise was loved by all and will never be forgotten.

Eloise is survived by her husband: George Sorrell of Lakeland, GA; her children: Justin Sorrell of Mt Dora, FL, Ashley Sorrell of Valdosta, GA, and Derek Sorrell of Valdosta, GA; her siblings: Wendell Wrice of Lakeland, GA, Cassandra Mosley (Roy) of Omega, GA, and Gene Wrice (Dinitra) of Columbus, GA. Eloise was preceded in death by her father: Robert M. Wrice; her mother, Gearldine Wrice; and her brother: Robert L. Wrice. She leaves cherished memories to her uncles and aunts: John W. Wrice (Wilma), Owen Wrice (Bertha), Alfred Wrice (Lanette), Willie Wrice (Anna), Enoch Wrice (Gwen), Lillie McEady, Helen Mack and Grace Mack; three special cousins: Marguerite Mack, Grace Wade and Betty Johnson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Celebration of Life graveside service for the late Mrs. Eloise Wrice Sorrell will be Saturday, September 19, 2020, 12:00 p.m., at the Charles Knight Cemetery, 301-399 N. College Street, Lakeland, GA.

Public viewing will be Friday, September 18, 2020, 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

All are welcome to attend and celebrate Eloise’s life. All those who wish to pay their respect in person must wear a mask during visitation and at the gravesite.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.godfreyfuneralhome.net.

Professional services provided by Godfrey Funeral Home, LLC.

Due to COVID-19, Godfrey Funeral Home will be enforcing social distancing and following the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines.