Peggy Wilson Whitlock, age 85 of Tuscumbia, AL departed this life peacefully at home on Thursday, June 4, 2015. Affectionately known as “Pill” in her younger years, then “Honey” to family and friends alike, she was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Mae Wilson, brother Thomas Lawler Wilson, and husband of 53 years Dr. Hilard E. Whitlock, Jr.
Born in Florence, Alabama on September 16, 1929, Peggy was a graduate of Coffee High School, Florence State Teachers College, and The University of North Alabama. She enjoyed a lifelong passion for learning and teaching; retiring as an educator with the Tuscumbia City Schools though continuing to listen, encourage, and share her wisdom and life lessons with all throughout her journey.
Married to Hilard Elbert Whitlock, Jr. on July 26, 1952, they began life together while he served in the U.S. Marine Corps and later attended Auburn University. Returning to Tuscumbia in 1959, they enjoyed establishing his practice and raising a family, making a lifetime of happy memories. Peggy was an active member of The Tuscumbia First United Methodist Church, Muscle Shoals District Service League, Maud Lindsay Study Club, Les Bon Vivantes Gourmet Club, and the Bridge Club. She enjoyed boating, gardening, cooking, entertaining, caring for her family, reminiscing with old friends, and making new friends in each phase of life. Her positive attitude, passion for living, and genuine love and concern for others was an inspiration to all.
She is survived by her daughter, Jean Whitlock Jordan and her husband Mitchell of Cleveland, TN, son Hilard Elbert Whitlock, III and his wife Mary Ann of Tuscumbia; grandchildren Emily Margaret Jordan, Catherine Carter Jordan, Wilson Coley Whitlock, and Benjamin McCuin Whitlock; sister Jean Wilson Martin of Nashville, TN, nieces Elizabeth Wilson Adams, Karen Martin Fuqua, Aline Martin Day, Ann Martin Green, and nephew Thomas Lawler Wilson.
Graveside service will be Sunday, June 7, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. in Oakwood Cemetery, Tuscumbia, with Rev. John Tanner officiating.
Pallbearers include: Gordon P. Fennel, Mark L. Fennel, Stephen W. Finch, Dr. James L. Maples, Robert Stacy Norwood, and Thomas L. Wilson.
Special thanks to her caregivers Laven Coffee, Mary Bailey, Juanita King, LaMeka Sears, and Mattie Johnson who cared for “Honey” in the comfort of her home on Wilson Lake.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to the charity of your choice.
