Walker County mourns loss of Lafayette High School teacher

WALKER COUNTY, Ga. (WDEF) — Walker County and surrounding areas are mourning the sudden loss of a 42-year-old teacher at Lafayette High School.

Lori McWhorter passed away on Friday, September 29 from a car accident.

According to the Georgia State Patrol (GSP), McWhorter was driving on Highway 27 in Chattooga County when she was involved in a wreck. A 69-year-old man lost control of his car while driving south and traveled into the northbound lanes. There, the Jeep struck a Hyundai Santa Fe, driven by McWhorter.

Authorities pronounced McWhorter dead on scene, and the other driver died after being taken to a hospital.

Lori McWhorter is a Rome, Georgia native who taught Career Technical & Agricultural Education at Lafayette High School, according to their website. She also lived in Trion, Georgia.

Lafayette High School and the Walker County Schools system recently recognized McWhorter as teacher of the year.

Her funeral services will take place on Wednesday at 4 p.m., with family and friends’ visitation taking place at 2 p.m.

Walker County schools wore Braves attire on Monday, October 2 in remembrance of McWhorter.

Read the full release from Walker County Schools:

“**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
Dear Parents and Guardians –
September 29, 2023
**Walker County Schools and LaFayette High School Mourn the Loss of Mrs. Lori McWhorter**
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mrs. Lori McWhorter, a cherished member of our Walker County Schools and LaFayette High School community. Mrs. McWhorter was a revered teacher, a devoted mother, and a loving wife, whose sudden and tragic loss leaves an irreplaceable void in our community.
Mrs. McWhorter’s unwavering passion for education and her dedication to nurturing the potential in every student made her an embodiment of inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Specializing in business and entrepreneurship classes, she created a learning environment that was both enlightening and empowering, where students felt valued and motivated to excel.
Her remarkable leadership was evident as she spearheaded the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) at LaFayette High School. Under her guidance, her students not only emerged as champions at regional and state levels but also marked their presence with commendable performance at national levels in FBLA competitions. Her relentless pursuit of excellence and her commitment to student success were the driving forces behind these achievements.
This school year, Mrs. McWhorter’s dedication and passion were recognized as she was honored as both the Teacher of the Year for LaFayette High School and the Walker County Schools System. This recognition served as a testament to her significant contributions to the field of education and her impactful role in the lives of her students.
Mrs. McWhorter’s passing is not only a loss to LaFayette High School but also to the entire educational community of Walker County. Her memories, teachings, and the invaluable lessons she imparted will continue to live on in the hearts of her students, colleagues, friends, and family.
Our deepest sympathies, thoughts, and prayers go out to Mrs. McWhorter’s family, her friends, students, and everyone affected by this devastating loss. We are working to support our school community through this difficult time and will be providing counseling services to students and staff in the coming school days.
In remembrance of Mrs. McWhorter’s incredible life and legacy, Walker County Schools and LaFayette High School will be organizing a memorial service to honor her contributions and to provide a platform for those who wish to pay their respects. Details of the service will be communicated in due course.
We encourage all members of our community to join us in remembering and celebrating Mrs. McWhorter’s life, her inspiring journey, and her immeasurable impact on the lives of countless individuals.
May her soul rest in peace.”