Joseph Edward Willingham, Jr., passed away at home on November 21, at the age of 75. Joe is predeceased by his father Joe Sr. (Dorothy), sister Linda Willingham Payne (Ronnie), sister Susan Willingham Crosby (George), and half-brother Eddie Valdes, Jr. He is survived by his mother Louise Sharpton Vaughan, brother Jonny Willingham (Sandy), wife of 54 years Peggy Thrasher Willingham, daughter Dana Willingham Furman, son Joe III/Pete (Mary), grandson Joseph IV/Joel, granddaughter Abby Furman Young (Matthew), grandson Neil Furman, former son-in-law Paul Furman, and former daughter-in-law Heather Dye Willingham. He was a beloved Gr’Dad to Mason Croy, recently a new Great Gr’Dad to Jonah Young, and Uncle Joey many times over.
Joe was born and raised in Gadsden, Alabama, on June 15, 1948. He graduated from Emma Sansom High School and continued his education at the University of Alabama where he earned a degree in metallurgical engineering. Shortly thereafter, Joe began his career at Republic Steel in Gadsden and retired from ArcelorMittal Steel in 2020. Quick to help someone in need, he served his community as a volunteer for the Gadsden Rescue Squad and as an assistant coach for his son’s multiple youth baseball teams over the years. His hobbies included golf and bowling with dear friends, traveling with/for family, and feeding the wildlife near his home on Lookout Mountain in Gadsden.
Rest in peace, Daddy.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.collier-butler.com for the Willingham Jr. family.
