East Union community remembers teacher Angie Young

About 400 family, friends, co-workers and students gathered in the East Union Attendance Center Gym Monday to remember long-time teacher Angela Young.

Young, who died Saturday at St. Francis Hospital in Memphis, had taught elementary classes at East Union for more than 36 years according to principal Ray Kennedy, who officiated the memorial service.

“Amazing Grace” and “I Can Only Imagine” were performed and Young’s niece, Hayley Hamrick, read some remembrances about Young.

“She loved her kids and they loved her,” she said. “She managed to find humor in any situation,” Hamrick continued, also mentioning Angie’s love of a cold Dr. Pepper and bag of Planter’s Peanuts.

“No matter what you did for her, she was very grateful and made you feel special,” she said.

Granddaughters Montana Grace Bryan and Talley Mae Bryan also shared memories. “We always knew she was an angel and was at peace every day of her life,” one said.

Principal Kennedy recounted information about her life and mentioned her love for her beloved cocker spaniel, Topper, in addition to love for her students.

“We have a two-fold purpose here today,” Kennedy said. “To honor the life of Angie Young, and that has already been done. But we also want to comfort her family and friends.”

Kennedy said he has worked with Young for 11 years and will remember her distinctive laugh that could be heard through the hallways. “She brought joy to others with her infectious laugh,” he said. Kennedy also noted her strong sense of commitment, both to teaching but also for concern for others.