Augusta, GA
Board to vote on plan that would close, consolidate Augusta schools
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The Richmond County Board of Education is set to vote Monday night on a master plan that would close several schools in the district.
The plan would close T.W. Josey High School and Murphey Middle School and convert them into a career and college academy.
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It would also close Jenkins White Elementary School and demolish Barton Chapel Elementary School to build a new one in its place.
During public input meetings, community members urged leaders to preserve the legacy and history of T.W. Josey High School. Alumni and neighbors said the school’s name needs to stay.
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Alumni said they support academic improvements proposed under the plan but want the school’s heritage recognized.
“We applaud all of the changes — the wonderful changes, the academics, the new path and all of that that are being proposed for the students — that is absolutely wonderful, but we want them to understand also that they have a heritage that has been wonderful and it needs to be maintained,” she said.
The school district said its intent is to keep the school’s students and staff together and continue to honor the school’s legacy.
The board meeting is at 6 p.m. at the Richmond County School System’s Central Auditorium.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Augusta nonprofit hosts family financial literacy day
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Families had the chance to sharpen their money skills at a financial literacy event hosted by local nonprofit Crown Her Mentoring at the Bernie Ward Community Center.
The free event offered resources for all ages, from kids learning the basics to adults planning for their financial future.
Attendees could sit in sessions about budgeting, credit, opening banking accounts and insurance options.
Organizers said the event was designed to make financial education accessible during Financial Literacy Month.
“People need to understand the importance of a checking account, a savings account—how to manage your money. How to invest your money. People need to learn about life insurance,” said Torrecka Davis, organizer.
Crown Her Mentoring will host a mental health awareness event on May 23. Open enrollment for new mentees will begin on May 10.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Lane Bryant to close Augusta Mall store this weekend
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Shoppers in Augusta will soon lose a longtime retail option, as Lane Bryant’s store inside Augusta Mall is set to close for good this weekend.
Employees at Lane Bryant inside Augusta Mall confirmed that the store will permanently close starting Sunday, April 19.
After the closure, the nearest Lane Bryant location for customers will be in Lexington.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Willie James Tanksley Obituary April 16, 2026 – G.L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary
With deepest and heartfelt sympathy, G. L. Brightharp & Sons announces the transition of Mr. Willie J. Tanksley who entered into rest April 18, 2026.
Mr. Tanksley, a native of Richmond County, was a 1985 graduate of the Academy of Richmond County. He was a member of Greater Young Zion Baptist Church where he served in the Brotherhood Ministry.
Survivors include his wife, Sabrina Tanksley; two daughters, Ashley Tanksley and Taylor Tanksley; siblings, Elise Tanksley of Augusta, GA, Wilhelmina Roland of Atlanta, GA, Terry Tanksley, Tommy Tanksley, Watler Tanksley and Elder Claude (Kimberly) Tanksley all of Augusta, GA; an aunt, Frances Tate; an uncle, James Tanksley; mother-in-law, Sandra Harrison of Beech Island, SC; father-in-law, Jimmy (Elnora) Bing; three sisters-in-law, Fonda Rainey, Nicole Harrison and Nina Bing; a brother-in-law, Eric Bing; a host of nieces , nephews, along with other loving relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Greater Young Zion Baptist Church with the Rev. William A. Blount officiating. Interment will follow at Walker Memorial Park. Viewing will be held from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM Monday at the funeral home.
The family will not be receiving visitors at the home. We ask that you continue to pray for them during this time.
Professional Services are under the compassionate care of G. L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary-North Augusta.
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