Mary Linda Ray Boger Hawkins

Ms. Mary Linda Ray Boger Hawkins, 86, of Elberton, passed away on January 2, 2026, at Pruitt Health at Spring Valley.

Ms. Hawkins was born in Elberton on April 17, 1939, daughter of the late Claude Elbert Ray, Sr. and Frances Irene Gaines Ray. She was a 1957 graduate of Elberton High School, and graduated with an associate’s degree in music from Emmanuel College. Linda a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Elberton where she was a member of the choir as well as the handbells choir. She also served as choir director at the Elberton Pentecostal Church in her earlier years.

Linda is most remembered as being a phenomenal music teacher, having taught generations of Elbertonians organ, piano, and voice. Her children’s choir, “The Melodears”, made annual appearances in the Elberton Christmas Parade. She later worked at the Elbert County Middle School. Linda was also a proud member of the Stephen Heard Chapter of NSDAR.  

Surviving are her daughter, Tammaney Holcombe of Adairsville; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her children: Pam New and John Stevens Boger; grandson, Wayne New; and siblings: Jo Ann Cobo, Annette Gaines, Doris Hudson, Henry Doyle Ray, Hazel Dean, Claude Ray, Jr., Norman Ray, Joyce Wilson, and David Ray.

Burial will be in Elmhurst Cemetery privately. No other services are planned.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Ms. Mary Linda Ray Boger Hawkins.