Celeste Marie Provence  passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was a beloved wife, mom, Cece, sister, teacher, artist, and friend whose kind heart, free spirit, and generous nature left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her.

Born on October 10, 1963 and raised in Savannah, GA, Celeste was a proud graduate of Armstrong Atlantic State University. She spent more than 30 years teaching in the Chatham and Effingham County School Districts, where she shared not only her knowledge but also her patience, encouragement, and love with generations of students.

Long before her teaching career, Celeste was a nationally ranked USA weightlifter. Whether facing life’s challenges or cheering on those she loved, she approached everything with determination and heart.

When she wasn’t teaching, you could often find Celeste with a paintbrush or pencil in hand. She was an incredibly talented artist who loved creating paintings and drawings, and one of her greatest joys was sharing her artwork with family, friends, and anyone who admired it. She saw beauty in the little things and had a wonderful way of helping others see it too.

More than anything, Celeste loved her family. She was the devoted wife of Trey Hopkinson, a loving mother to Joseph (Kelly), Robert (Kylee), Anthony, Zoie (Daniel), and Zach, and the proudest “Cece” to her grandson, John Joseph “JJ,” who brought endless joy to her life. She also leaves behind her faithful fur babies, Cheeto and Juno, who were never far from her side.

She is survived by her siblings, Joe Provence (Cindy), Jerome Provence (Christienne), Larry Provence (Linda), Andrew Provence (Angie),Rachel Lanier (Greg), Donna Provence, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, former students, and colleagues who will miss her deeply.

Celeste was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Gerry Provence, and her brother, Tim Provence.

Even in passing, Celeste continued to care for others. As an organ donor, she gave the incredible gift of life, helping save three people. It was one final act of generosity that perfectly reflected the way she lived her life.

Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate Celeste’s life with a visitation on Thursday, July 2, 2026, starting at 1:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. at Baker & McCullough Funeral Home in Garden City.

In Lieu of Flowers donations may be made too the following organization, Backpack Buddies Click Here to donate to Backpack Buddies , and Morris Slotin Trasnportation fund in care of the Alee Shriners P.O. Box 14147, Savannah, Georgia 31416

Arrangements have been provided by Baker McCullough Funeral Home Garden City Chapel, 2794 US Highway 80 West, Garden City, Georgia 31408. For more information, please contact (912) 964-2862 or visit www.bakermccullough.com.

Celeste lived life with strength, creativity, laughter, and an open heart. Her love lives on in her family, her art, the countless students she inspired, and in everyone lucky enough to have known her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.