Tree planted in memory of teacher

Mary Bramlett teacher Erik Gerstenacker plants a red Japanese maple tree in memory of Marla Blackwell. Marla Blackwell will always have a special place in the hearts of her students and friends at Mary Bramlett Elementary.

Mary Bramlett Elementary planted a red Japanese maple tree in Blackwell's honor Friday afternoon in a memorial garden adjacent to the school's main entrance. The ornamental tree was planted to serve as a lasting reminder for the kindergarten teacher's positive influence at the school.

Blackwell was killed in a car accident near her home earlier this month.

Blackwell began her teaching career as a substitute teacher in January of 1996.

She taught from 1998-2002 at Goucher Elementary, Grassy Pond Elementary and Gaffney Middle schools. She spent the past six years teaching second grade and kindergarten at Mary Bramlett Elementary.

"We are so thankful to have had her in our midst as a teacher and a family member," Mary Bramlett Elementary Principal Audrey McClary said.

About 20 former students of Blackwell's wore white ribbons in honor of their teacher at the memorial program. Relatives attending the ceremony were Blackwell's husband, Tim; children Jott, Josh and Angel; and brother-in-law Billy.

The memorial service was organized by guidance counselor Linda Wallace.

"We will always remember Marla Blackwell for her love of horses, family and home," Wallace said. "She felt the same way about her students. She was always talking about her students and how proud she was of their accomplishments. We will always miss her."