CUMMING, Ga. (AP) - A Georgia teacher found a way to help needy students even after she was gone.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Tammy Wadell died June 9 after a prolonged illness. Instead of flowers, people brought backpacks filled with school supplies to her June 12 funeral.

Her family said helping children in need was her passion, and the donated supplies were her last request.

My cousin’s final request at her funeral was Backpacks full of supplies for needy students instead of flowers. A teacher to the end. @TeachersNet @edutopia @EdWeekTeacher pic.twitter.com/eGig25tYwH

— Dr. Brad Johnson (@DrBradJohnson) June 19, 2018

Waddell worked as a paraprofessional and teacher in Forsyth County schools.

The backpacks are to be distributed through Project Connect, a school district initiative to help students in need.

Forsyth County schools spokeswoman Jennifer Caracciolo said in a statement that Waddell loved children. Caracciolo said: "The generous backpack/supplies donations in her memory is a touching tribute."