Debbie McElyea Blakely passed away Sunday, December 13, 2020 surrounded with her family and friends. Visitation will be Sunday, December 20, 2020 from 1 to 2 with memorial service following at Tanner High School Gymnasium.
Debbie was proceeded in death by her father Carl McElyea of Athens.
Debbie graduated from Clements High School, Calhoun Community College and Athens State College where she received her degree in Physical Education/Special Education.
Coach Blakely began her career at Tanner High School where she led two teams to State Championships and was named “Coach of the Year” each time. She continued her coaching at West Limestone and Ardmore where she won various titles. Debbie was inducted into the Limestone County Sports Hall of Fame. She was Director of JTPA for local youth summer jobs. After retiring from the Limestone County School System she began working as a Unit Director for the Athens Boys & Girls Club.
Debbie is survived her husband Mike Blakely, son Andy Blakely (Dawn), grandsons Luke (Holland) and Ben all of Athens. Her mother Margaret Bridges McElyea, one brother Roger McElyea (Karen) both of Athens.
In lieu of flowers, donations or contributions may be made to MTM Educational Enrichment c/o Debbie Blakely Memorial Scholarship Fund 112 Market Street West Athens, Alabama 35611, Hospice of Limestone County or a charity of choice.
