Clarke Middle School teacher dies at age 25

From McLeighton Funeral Service

Tyler Lauren Hortman Parker, age 25, of Athens, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Upson Regional Medical Center.

A member of Musella Baptist Church, Tyler was known for her warm spirit, her love of learning, and her commitment to the farming community. She was deeply passionate about agricultural education and the outdoors.

A proud graduate of the University of Georgia, Tyler earned her bachelor’s degree in agricultural education and went on to serve as an agriculture educator at Clarke Middle School, where she inspired countless young minds with her enthusiasm and commitment.

She lived by the motto, “Bloom where you are planted,” and truly embodied this philosophy in every aspect of her life.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 3:30 pm at Musella Baptist Church, with burial to follow in Union Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 5 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

Tyler was preceded in death by her father, Dr. William “Ed” Hortman.

She is survived by her loving husband, Peyton Parker of Athens; her mother, Lisa Hortman Harrell (Gary) of Gray; three sisters, Lindsay Hortman (Adonis) of Griffin, Erin Crews (Evan) of Luthersville, and Jennifer Rhodes (Alan) of Gray; two brothers, John David Hortman (Ray) of Macon and Jake Harrell (Caitlin) of Gray,; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Clint and Clair Parker of Butler; two brothers-in-law, Ander Parker (Hannah) of Reynolds and Cal Benjamin Parker (Carmen) of Butler; her maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Joel Shelton of Manchester;  grandparents-in-law, Gerald and Linda Parker; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cherished friends, including her beloved dog, Cricket.

Memorial contributions may be made to Clarke Middle School FFA in loving memory of Tyler.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcleightonfuneralservice.com.

 McLeighton Funeral Service of Butler is in charge of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Tyler (Hortman) Parker, please visit our floral store.