Mark Daniel Elsey, 60, of Newnan, passed away on February 21, 2026, surrounded by family, in Pensacola, Florida.

Born on August 18, 1965, in Trenton, Michigan, he was the son of the late Daniel & Frances Carol Elsey. Mark's zest for life and his passion for helping others shaped a career and a legacy that touched countless lives. After earning a Bachelor of Arts from Georgia State University and a Master of Arts from LaGrange College, Mark dedicated his life to the field of emergency medical services. For over 36 years, he served as a paramedic and paramedic instructor, a vocation that saw him save many lives with his skilled hands and sharp mind. His commitment to healthcare extended beyond the ambulance and emergency rooms, as he spent more than 15 years as a cherished teacher and administrator in Healthcare Science and Career & Technical Education (CTE) in Fulton County Schools. There, he inspired a new generation to follow in his footsteps, equipping them with the knowledge and compassion necessary to excel in the medical field. Mark was a member and treasurer of the Healthcare Science Technology Educators Association (HSTEA) and for nearly two decades, he played a pivotal role in advancing the organization's mission. His involvement with the Georgia Association for Career & Technical Education (GACTE) further underscored his dedication to educational excellence and his belief in the power of continuous learning.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Mark's deep faith served as the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and shaping his character. He was known for his lively sense of humor and his clever wit, qualities that brought warmth and laughter to all who knew him. A lifelong collector, Mark found pleasure in the simple things, whether it was adding to his cherished memorabilia or sharing his latest find with friends and family. Travel was another of Mark's passions, and he seized every opportunity to explore new places. An avid fisherman, he cherished the tranquility of being near the water, and the thrill of the catch. For Mark, the Star Wars saga was more than just a series of films; it was a source of endless fascination and a universe he adored escaping into. The epic tales of heroism, adventure, and the timeless struggle between good and evil resonated with him deeply, reflecting his own values and the battles he fought every day to save lives and serve others. In addition to his parents, Mark was preceded in death by his beloved aunt, Marilyn Sue Buie, his uncle, Reverend Thomas Elsey, and his sister, Karen Madison Gray.

Survivors include his wife of 16 years, Pamela Manz Elsey; children, Jonathon Elsey (Tyler Morris) of LaGrange, Christopher Elsey (Meagin Mitchell) of Grantville, Emily Villacres (Aaron Jimenez) of Frederick, MD, and Joshua Villacres of Newnan; granddaughter, Mia Villacres of Frederick, MD; his sister, Cheryl Elsey (Karl Buche) of Maplewood, MN; and many cousins.

A service to celebrate the life of Mark Elsey will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Hillcrest Chapel with Reverend Diane Dougherty, ARCWP officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday, one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to HSTEA for the Mark Elsey New Teacher Scholarship at www.hstea.org or 4920 Bill Gardner Pkwy, Ste 4922-232, Locust Grove, GA 30248 or to ALS United of Georgia at www.alsgeorgia.org/donate in memory of Mark.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care and compassion Mark received from both Amedysis Hospice and Vitas Hospice.

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