Merlene Hogsed, prominent business woman and lifelong resident of Cornelia, passed away Friday, September 30, 2011, at her residence following an extended illness. Born in Birmingham, Alabama on October 6, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Marvin and Grace Stonecypher Mullenix and beloved granddaughter of the late “Uncle Bart” Stonecypher. Ms. Hogsed was an entrepreneur having owned the first personal care home and adult daycare in Habersham County. She also was the founder of Habersham Retreat, which opened in 1980. Ms. Hogsed held many titles including being the first female commissioner for the city of Cornelia. She was a director for the Georgia Association of Community Care Providers. She also was a board member for the local AARP Chapter #2040 and Habersham County fair and a member of Better Hometown Program and Cornelia Planning and Zoning Board. She took great pride in her civic duty and loved politics. She was a dedicated and faithful member of Level Grove Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her first husband, Walter Hogsed and great grandson, Brent Moore. Survivors include her daughter, Brenda Hogsed Garcia of Cornelia; son, Bill Hogsed of Cornelia; grandchildren, Brad and wife, Tonya Moore, Sean and wife, Rhonda Moore and Jessica Garcia; great grandchildren, Candace Turner, Blake Moore, Brandon Moore, Brett Moore, Blair Moore, Maddie Moore and Karrie Moore; great-great grandson, Ashe Turner. Funeral services are 4:00 pm Sunday, October 2, 2011, at Level Grove Baptist Church with Rev. Brian James officiating. Interment will follow in Level Grove Cemetery with Lee Moore and Rev. Mike Wilson officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 2-4 & 6-8 pm on Saturday. Flowers are accepted or donations may be made to AARP Chapter #2040, c/o Michael Carroll, 561 Highland Pointe Dr, Alto, GA 30510.