Sandra Deal, former GA First Lady, dead at 80
Deal was a champion for Georgia students
Former Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal, the wife of former Gov. Nathan Deal, passed away Tuesday after a years-long battle with breast cancer.
She was 80 years old.
A public school teacher, Deal cared deeply about the education of Georgia students. She retired as a sixth grade language arts teacher in Hall County.
While she was First Lady, she traveled to schools in every corner of the state to read books to Pre-K and kindergarteners. She also took part in several book donation events.
Mrs. Deal was candid about her health, revealing in 2018 that she was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer after a routine checkup. She used her diagnosis to encourage all Georgia women to get mammograms.
We learned Tuesday that her cancer worsened and attacked other parts of her body, including her brain.
Several Georgia leaders had kind words for Mrs. Deal on Tuesday. House Speaker David Ralston said that she was “the source and inspiration for the greatness of Governor Nathan Deal.” Gov. Brian Kemp said that she will “remain steadfast in our hearts and memories.”
Mrs. Deal is survived by her husband, their four children and six grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Very informative, Niles!
Many thanks!