Sally Marian Dugger Ginn, 88, passed peacefully June 8, 2019. She was born New Year’s Day, 1931, at Emory of Atlanta, as the only daughter of Lewis and Lelia Dugger. Sally was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Tinsley Rucker Ginn; and their infant daughter, Amanda Lelia.

Sally attended R.L. Hope and Washington Seminary (now Westminster) and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Georgia in June 1952. She met Tinsley Rucker Ginn, of Covington, while both were traveling by sea for student travel to Europe; they were married shortly after her graduation, at Saint Marks First United Methodist Church, where she had been baptized as a child. She and Rucker were longtime members of First Baptist Church of Covington.

Sally loved symphonic music, horseback riding, walking or hiking with a friend, reading and caring for animals. Throughout her life, she was devoted to animals, specifically those injured or without homes. Sally worked at Animal Medical Clinic and helped found the Humane Society of Newton County. She relished showing Sean, her beloved Irish Wolfhound. Sally was a member of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, President of the Miniature Garden Club, and worked to found the Southern Belle Garden Club, where she said, “We didn’t wear hats."

She is survived by her daughters and son-in-law, Amanda and James Rydel of Big Canoe, Lelia Ginn, Tinsley Ginn, both of Atlanta, son and daughter-in-law, Marshall and Cathy Ginn, of Covington; grandchildren, Zachary Rydel, Eleanor Ginn and Colton Ginn.

A Graveside Service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 13, at Covington City Cemetery, Davis Street, with Dr. Cody McNutt officiating. Friends may visit with her family at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 12. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Humane Society of Newton County, P.O. Box 2536, Covington, GA 30015, or First Baptist Church Music Program, 1139 Usher St., Covington, GA 30014.