It is with heavy hearts that we honor the life and legacy of Mrs. Linda Lloyd, former Executive Director of the Economic Justice Coalition and a lifelong advocate for justice, equity, and community empowerment.
Linda Lloyd was far more than a leader within our organization; she was a pillar of the values we continue to uphold today. As the first Executive Director of the Economic Justice Coalition, she helped shape the organization from its early years, building its mission, vision, and impact from the ground up.
Linda began her leadership with EJC in 2004, following the organization’s transition from the Living Wage Coalition, which was founded by her mentor, Dr. Ray MacNair. Bringing with her a background as a Master’s-level social worker and experience in local government, Linda combined deep empathy with strategic leadership. Her work was rooted in both personal and professional understanding of injustice, including her advocacy for workers’ rights and marginalized communities.
Over her 19-year tenure, culminating in her retirement in June 2023, Linda led transformative initiatives that shaped the Athens community and beyond. In collaboration with local, state, and national partners, she helped register over 23,000 voters across Athens and surrounding counties. She also developed a nonpartisan civic education curriculum to help new voters understand the real-life impact of voting.
Continuing the legacy of Dr. MacNair, Linda championed the fight for livable wages, expanding the definition beyond income to include dignity, stability, and fair working conditions. Her leadership contributed to numerous businesses and institutions, including the Athens-Clarke County Government, adopting livable wage standards.
Linda also believed in building sustainable economic alternatives. Under her leadership, EJC established three worker-owned business cooperatives that provided fair wages and opportunities for community members. She supported initiatives like Unity Labor Partners, which uplifted day laborers, especially undocumented workers, by creating pathways for safer, more equitable employment. Her work also extended to advocacy efforts at the University of Georgia and participation in broader movements for economic justice across the state.
Even after stepping down from her formal role, Mrs. Lloyd never stepped away from the work. She remained a constant presence, supporting EJC through periods of growth and transition, showing up for community events, and continuing to advocate for the causes she believed in so deeply. She also served as the Founder and Executive Director of Above and Beyond Home Healthcare Co-op, continuing her commitment to care-centered, community-driven work.
Mrs. Linda Lloyd touched countless lives through her advocacy, mentorship, and service. Her influence extended far beyond any one organization, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Her passing is a profound loss for our organization and the broader community. Many of us were personally impacted by her kindness, leadership, and strength. We extend our deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Memorial & Funeral Service Information
We invite all who wish to honor Linda’s life to join in the following services:
Omega Omega Service and Memorial
New Grove Baptist Church
1228 Moores Grove Road, Winterville, GA
Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Funeral Service
Turkey Creek Baptist Church
45 W Road, Lilly, GA
Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Linda Lloyd’s legacy lives on through the work we continue to do. We honor her by continuing the mission she helped build, with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to justice.
Economic Justice Coalition 