In Loving Memory of GUARIDIAN ANGEL Janice Hubert
August 14, 1950 – August 24, 2026
Jan was a cherished member of CCYA's volunteer family, the GUARDIAN ANGELS, where she generously gave her time, love, and attention to our youth. Whether participating in fun activities, serving meals, or helping to make Christmas special through thoughtful gifts, Jan brought kindness and joy to those around her. She truly embodied the spirit of a Guardian Angel. Her caring heart, generous spirit, and dedication to our young people will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. Jan was truly an angel among us, and her beautiful legacy of love and service will remain in our hearts.
Jan's kindness touched many lives, and we are grateful for every moment she shared with our CCYA family. She was a true GUARDIAN ANGEL and although she will be deeply missed, the love and kindness she gave will never be forgotten.
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/marietta-ga/janice-hulbert-13016152
In Loving Memory of Dr. Wayman Louis Parker
September 3, 1944 – August 9, 2026
Dr. Wayman Louis Parker was a treasured friend and longtime volunteer of the Center for Children & Young Adults (CCYA). Through his service with the Cobb County Master Gardeners, he played an important role in creating CCYA's Blooming w/ Possibilities Garden, a place that beautifully reflects what he believed about our youth: with encouragement, nurturing, and opportunity, they can grow, flourish, and become all they are meant to be.
Dr. Parker's commitment to our young people extended far beyond the garden. He was a passionate and unwavering advocate for education. He strongly encouraged CCYA residents to continue their education beyond high school and took the time to speak with them about their goals, their potential, and the possibilities that awaited them. When a young person expressed a desire to attend college, he was willing to advocate on their behalf, speaking with colleges, singing the praises of our residents, and helping students establish connections with mentors and other supportive individuals on campus. He wanted our youth not only to gain admission, but to have the relationships, encouragement, and support they needed to succeed once they arrived.
Dr. Parker planted many seeds during his years with CCYA. Some were planted in the soil of the Blooming w/ Possibilities Garden, but perhaps his most meaningful seeds were those he planted in the hearts and minds of our young people. He reminded them to dream beyond their circumstances, to believe in their abilities, and to pursue an education that could open doors to a brighter future.
We are deeply grateful for the many years Dr. Parker shared his time, wisdom, voice, and heart with CCYA. His presence will be greatly missed, but the lives he touched and the possibilities he helped nurture are a lasting part of his legacy.
In Memory of
William Wesley Bechtel, CCYA Emeritus Trustee
FEBRUARY 12, 1941 – MAY 6, 2024
Bill Bechtel was a cherished friend, dedicated volunteer, and steadfast supporter of CCYA. Over the years, he built meaningful relationships with many of our residents, offering kindness, encouragement, and genuine care.
For many years, Bill and his wife, Martha, welcomed CCYA youth into their home to celebrate Easter. Through their generosity, many young people experienced the joy of dyeing Easter eggs and participating in an Easter egg hunt for the very first time. These special memories are a lasting part of Bill's legacy.
Bill was always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether employing youth for odd jobs around his home, sharing a meal, or offering guidance and mentorship, he invested his time and heart in helping young people succeed. His compassion and belief in the potential of every youth made a profound difference in countless lives.
A passionate advocate for support of foster care youth in Cobb County, Bill was also a long-time sustaining donor and a generous annual sponsor of CCYA's annual PaJammin' event. His unwavering commitment to our mission helped strengthen our organization and expand opportunities for the youth we serve.
As a valued member of CCYA's Emeritus Trustee Board, Bill's leadership, generosity, and friendship left an enduring mark on our community. His legacy of compassion, service, and care will continue to inspire us for years to come.
CCYA will deeply miss Bill Bechtel and will forever be grateful for the many lives he touched. Today, Martha Bechtel continues to be a lead Guardian Angel and generous donor to CCYA.
In Memory of James "Jim" Newman, Emeritus Legacy Trustee & Former CCYA Board Member
AUGUST 31, 1944 - NOVEMBER 26, 2018
Jim Newman joined the CCYA Board of Directors in 1999 as he began looking ahead to retirement from BellSouth and searching for a meaningful way to serve the Cobb County community. His desire was simple yet profound: to dedicate his time and talents to an organization that supported children and youth.
A fellow BellSouth colleague who was serving on the CCYA board introduced Jim to The Center and invited him to become involved. What began as an opportunity to give back quickly became a lifelong commitment. As Jim often said, CCYA "fit the bill" perfectly, providing exactly the kind of service opportunity he had hoped to find.
Over nearly two decades of dedicated leadership, Jim served CCYA in countless capacities. He held the offices of President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary—many times over—and became known for his meticulous attention to detail, particularly in recording board meeting minutes. In 2009, he served on the search committee that selected CEO Kim Borna, helping shape the organization's future. He also led the board nominations subcommittee for many years, recruiting and mentoring new leaders who would carry CCYA's mission forward.
Jim played a pivotal role in some of the most significant milestones in CCYA's history. He helped guide the organization through the development of the Open Gate and Life Works facilities and supported the strategic transition from serving children of all ages to focusing exclusively on teens, allowing CCYA to address a growing and critical community need.
Throughout his tenure, Jim was a steadfast champion of CCYA's fundraising efforts and community partnerships. He represented the board at numerous site visits conducted by organizations such as the United Way, Managing for Excellence, and the Cobb Collaborative. His thoughtful leadership, steady presence, and ability to navigate complex challenges helped strengthen the organization through times of growth as well as periods of uncertainty.
Those who served alongside Jim found comfort in his wisdom, experience, and unwavering commitment to the mission. His leadership was marked by humility, integrity, and a genuine concern for the young people CCYA serves.
As a recipient of CCYA's 2016 Legacy Award, Jim earned a lifetime seat as a CCYA Legacy Trustee—a fitting recognition of his extraordinary service. Although Jim passed away in 2018, his impact continues to be felt throughout the organization. His legacy lives on in the programs he helped build, the leaders he mentored, and the countless young lives touched by CCYA's work.
Jim will always remain an important part of the CCYA family, and we are deeply grateful for the years of service, guidance, and friendship he shared with us. His memory continues to inspire our mission and our commitment to the youth of our community.