Legendary Calhoun coach, athlete passes away

78-year-old Helen Jane McDonald passed away last week at her home, and the Calhoun High School family lost a legendary athlete, educator, and coach with her death.

McDonald was born in Rome in 1937, and attended Calhoun High School, graduating as a member of the class of 1955.  She then moved on to earn a B.S. in Education from the University of Georgia in 1959, returning to Calhoun City Schools to teach P.E., a job she held until 1991 when she retired.

McDonald was known as a legendary athlete and coached multiple sports for the school system during her career.  She continued to stay active in sports after her retirement, including the co-founding of Gordon County’s American Red Cross Swim Program.

Funeral Services for McDonald were held on Saturday, November 14th at the Chapel of Thomas Funeral Home.  Condolences to the family may be left at www.thomasfuneralhomecalhoun.com.