As details emerge on a fiery wreck that closed Highway 316 in Barrow County in the early morning hours of Sept. 10, 2016, condolences pour in for the beloved Atha Road Kindergarten teacher who died in the wreck. Aileen “Alli” Fisk, 39, was the wrong way driver on Highway 316 Saturday when she ran head-on into a vehicle driven by Anthony Hawkins, 21, of Bethlehem. Walton County Public Schools spokesperson confirmed the loss of Fisk Monday morning and the school released the following statement.
“Atha Road Elementary School and the Walton County School District are mourning the loss of kindergarten teacher Ali Fisk who passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 10. “Ms. Fisk was a special teacher who was loved by her students, parents and the school,” said Principal Madenna Landers. “She will be sorely missed by our entire school family and community. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Ms. Fisk’s family and the family of Anthony Hawkins, we will keep them in our thoughts and prayers.” Fisk received her Masters Degree in Elementary Education from Kennesaw State University before starting at Atha Road in the fall of 2008.”
Condolences also are pouring in on social media by parents of students who have been taught by Fisk since she began teaching at Atha Road Elementary School.
“My son had her as his teacher last year, loved her, it was hard having to tell him the news,” said one commenter on Monroe Local News Facebook post.
“One of the best teacher’s Atha Rd school had – she really made a impact on grandkid’s life. She had a heart of gold. The Johnson children loved her with heart and soul. May God touch her family with peace and comfort at this time of the loss of a love one,” commented another.
“Mrs. Fisk was a very important part of our lives for a long time. She taught two of my girls and was very involved with my youngest. My heart breaks over this,” wrote another. “She was an amazing teacher and it is so sad and tragic what happened. Prayers for all families involved in this horrible accident!”
Fisk also taught at Cooper Road Elementary School in the Loganville area of Gwinnett County for a period from 2005 and prior to moving to Walton County.
Condolences also came in on social media for the family of the 21-year-old who, according to his obituary, was a 2013 graduate of Appalachee High School. He also attended Armstrong State University in Savannah and was the assistant manager for Domino’s Pizza.
There has been much speculation as to why Fisk was driving on the wrong side of the road, but at this time, other than say the accident is under investigation, authorities have not given any other details. No funeral details have been announced for Fisk at this time. A Memorial Service is planned for 3 pm. Saturday, sept. 17, at River Hills Church in Winder for Hawkins.