Rachel President Obituary

Rachel Middleton President was born on May 25, 1947 in Russellville, South Carolina and departed this life on January 24, 2026 at her residence surrounded by her loved ones.

She attended Russellville High School and received her bachelor's degree from Allen University and master's degree from The Citadel. Rachel built a distinguished career as an educator, teaching high school English, Spanish, and Journalism for over 30 years. Beyond the classroom, she spearheaded various student clubs, creating spaces where young people could discover their passions and develop their talents.

In the classroom, "Señora President", as her students affectionately called her, approached every day with a clear purpose: excellence earned through discipline, hard work, and an unwavering belief in each student's boundless potential. She held high standards because she knew what her students could achieve, and she spoke truth with firmness, always guided by care. Her no-nonsense approach was never detached from compassion-it was a steady, protective framework within which growth flourished. Rachel met the love of her life, Peterson, in Cross, SC. They married on April 2, 1969 and shared 56 years of loving partnership.

Rachel was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, friend, and educator. She poured the same rigor, warmth, and integrity into every role, shaping generous, resilient, and hopeful communities both at home and at school.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gabriel and Albertha Middleton; brother, William Roy Milton; sister, Charlene Middleton; daughter, Cathy President-Waymyers; and granddaughter, Catilin Brianna President.

She is survived by her loving husband, Peterson of Cross, SC; her children, William (Shawn) Mack of Columbia, SC, Paula President-Wise of Jacksonville, FL, Nancy Gail President of Atlanta, GA, and Stacy (Arthur) Hobson of East Fishkill, NY; her grandchildren, Lawrence (Sarah) Kelly, Kourtnei Mack, Brandon (Briana) Waymyers, Crystal Waymyers, Kameron Mack, Ethan Wise, Preston Wise, Sabrina Hobson, Vanessa Hobson, Marlon Thomas, LaPatrice McFadden, and TyJaye Grant; her great-grandchildren, Nylah President, Tristan Kelly, Breyon Waymyers and Kobe Waymyers; her brother, Joseph (Shirley) Middleton; her sister, Janie Smalls; and her sisters-in-law, Azalee President, Mary Milton, Joyce Bennett, and Ruth Johnson. She also leaves three people who were very dear to her – a 'bonus son', Tarius Bell; caregivers, Maxine Glover and Cicely Gillispie; and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family.

Rachel lived a life of service, purpose, and love. Her legacy endures in the countless lives she shaped, the standards she upheld, and the compassion she embodied. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

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