Emily Jane Pedlow, 79, of Newnan, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, at Brightmoor Hospice.

Born on December 18, 1946, in Milan, Indiana, she was a daughter of the late Robert Gullion and the late Bettie Rook Gullion. Emily’s journey was shaped by a profound passion for learning and leadership. She earned her bachelor’s in education and later a master’s in education leadership from the University of South Florida, laying a strong academic foundation that inspired both her students and colleagues alike. Throughout her career, Emily tirelessly championed the needs of special education students, ensuring they received the support and opportunities they deserve. As an administrator, she worked with unwavering dedication to enhancing educational practices and fostering an inclusive environment within the school district she loved so dearly. Beyond her professional life, Emily was known for her vibrant spirit and the warmth she brought into every room. Her mastery as a quilter was more than a hobby; it was an art form through which she expressed her creativity and patience. Emily’s heart was also nourished by an avid love of reading, and she could often be found deeply engrossed in books that transported her to new worlds and ideas. She also delighted in British television, savoring the charm and drama of stories set across the pond. In her final days at Brightmoor Hospice, Emily’s strength and grace remained evident - qualities that defined her life and the extraordinary journey she embraced. As we remember Emily, we honor a true educator, an artist of quilts and words, and a soul who cherished every moment of a life well-lived. She will be deeply missed but endlessly remembered.

Survivors include her husband of 58 years, Steven Pedlow; children, Julia Schoonoveer (Kenn) of Duke, MO, Michael Pedlow (Caroline) of Pflugerville, TX, and Amanda Davis (Jimmie) of Sharpsburg; grandchildren, Brenden Anderson (Brooke), Corryn Anderson (Tyler Swinehart), and Nohea Evans (Marni), Steven Pedlow, Mahina Pedlow, Reilly Davis, and Emma Davis; great-granddaughter, Melokea Evans; and siblings, Mark Gullion (Jeanne), Linda Bohannon (Rick), and John Gullion.

The date and time of a memorial service at Hillcrest Chapel will be announced.

Higgins Funeral Home Hillcrest Chapel is honored to serve the family of Emily Pedlow, please visit www.hillcrestchapelcares.com to share your memories or leave a condolence message.