Marjorie Ellen “Margie” Ezell Whitsett, age 96, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026. She was born October 29, 1929, in Rogersville, Alabama, to the late Charlie Weaver Ezell and Essie Kathleen Owens Ezell. She married the love of her life, Lynn, on September 8, 1948. Together they shared 49 years of marriage and raised five children. They worked together to found Lynn Whitsett Corporation in 1952, which developed a strong reputation as a family- and management led industrial contractor, with leadership deeply tied to the Memphis industrial community.
Margie was known for her devotion to those she loved. She especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends around her pool, working in her yard and vegetable garden, and caring for her flowers — particularly her elephant ears and buttercups. She cooked dinner for her children and grandchildren every Sunday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas for many years.
Margie also enjoyed traveling and volunteering alongside members of the Zaman Grotto at the Mid South Fair. She was active with Al Chymia Shrine fundraising activities for many years and especially enjoyed helping with the Shrine Circus and selling Boss Hoss motorcycle raffle tickets on Beale Street. The friendships and good times from those experiences meant a great deal to her.
Margie was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Lynn; her brothers Charles Ezell, Thomas Ezell, and Owen Ezell; and her children Angie Harville, Jimmy Whitsett, and Joe Whitsett.
She is survived by her daughter Becky Gibson (John) of Bartlett, Tennessee; her son Steve Whitsett of Rogersville, Alabama; daughter in law Ruth Whitsett of Rogersville, Alabama; and son in law Doug Harville of Tyro, Mississippi. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Hearthside Senior Living in Bartlett for the love and support they provided Margie during her final years.
A graveside service will be held at Miller Cemetery, 240 York Drive, Rogersville, Alabama, on Thursday, June 4th at 2:00 p.m.
Margie’s greatest joy was her family and friends. Her loving spirit and generous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children (www.shrinerschildrens.org) or a charity of your choice.
