COFFEE COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) — The Coffee County community is mourning the loss of retired teacher, photographer and journalist Walter Jardine.

Jardine passed away Saturday after an extended illness, according to Douglas Now.

Jardine spent 32 years as an educator and coach in the Coffee County School System, but many people across South Georgia knew him best for his photography.

With his long hair, signature beard and camera always nearby, Jardine became a familiar face at sporting events across Georgia and Florida. He photographed everything from local recreation league tournaments to NFL and MLB games throughout his career.

Coffee High School also honored Jardine’s legacy, calling him “one of our true legends.” In a social media post, the school described him as more than a teacher and coach — but also a mentor, friend and beloved member of the Trojan family.

The school said through his camera lens, Jardine captured “moments, memories, achievements, and the spirit of our community for generations to cherish.”

Community members say Jardine’s impact stretched far beyond the sidelines and into the lives of generations of students, athletes and families across Coffee County.

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