Joyce Fitzgerald Whigam

Eleanor Joyce Fitzgerald Whigam, 93, of Folkston, Georgia passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026. Born on November 2, 1932, in Wilcox County, Georgia, Joyce was the daughter of the late Perry Drew and Lila Keen Fitzgerald of Abbeville, Georgia.

Joyce lived a vibrant life, known for her immense love of her Lord, family, and friends. On January 28, 1951, she married Otto Whigam, and together they built a life in Folkston, Georgia. They raised two children, Sharon and Michael. She dedicated many years to her career as the City Clerk of Folkston, retiring to spend time traveling, and enjoying her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Joyce was a member of The First Baptist Church and enjoyed the fellowship of the Murae Nance Sunday School Class. She also enjoyed the Red Hatter’s of Folkston. Above all, she was a dedicated mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, supporting each of us in every endeavor, a constant source of encouragement, wisdom and joy in our lives. Holidays were paramount, and each opportunity to gather with family was celebrated.

She is survived by her husband of 75 years, Otto Whigam; her daughter, Sharon and Chip Beal of Waycross, Georgia, her son, Michael O. and Vickie Whigam of Hilliard, Florida; grandchildren, Anna B. and Michael Davis, James and Summer Beal, Perry D. Whigam and fiancé Skye Anderson; her great-grandchildren Brayden Davis, Asher, Davis, Acres Beal, Harper Beal, and Camden Davis; her sisters, Jaqueline F. Taylor of Cordele, and Laverne F. Crenshaw of Cordele, Georgia; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Perry Drew and Lila, and a brother, Jimmy Drew Fitzgerald.

Family and friends are invited to gather at 1:00 pm for visitation on July 6, 2026, at The First Baptist Church of Folkston, located at 1320 Third Street, Folkston, Georgia. The Celebration of Life Service will follow at 2:00 pm, with Dr. Randy Jacoby officiating. Graveside service to follow at Pinehurst Cemetery in Folkston.

Condolences may be expressed by signing the guest registry at www.shepardrobersonfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shepard-Roberson Funeral Home, 526 Oakwood Street, Folkston, GA.