Ms. Willie Mae Whiteside

Willie Mae Whiteside, age 97, of Jackson, Tennessee, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering devotion. Born and raised in Jackson, she remained deeply rooted in the community that shaped her — and that she, in turn, helped shape — through a lifetime of quiet grace, resilience, and service. Willie Mae was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ, from its humble beginnings at the Church of Christ on Middleton and Payne Street to its relocation to East Jackson. Her faith was her foundation and her compass, guiding her through every season of life. As a devoted wife, mother, and friend, Willie Mae was a profoundly loving, caring, and nurturing woman. A widowed mother, she raised three children with courage and compassion, creating a home filled with warmth, wisdom, and unconditional love. Her strength was quiet but mighty, and her heart was always open to family, neighbors, and anyone in need of kindness. Willie Mae was gainfully employed by Bob and Virginia Conger, working faithfully for them from 1962 until 1995. Following her many years of dedicated service, she continued her career at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital, where she worked until her retirement in 1997. Her work ethic, humility, and devotion left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charlie Whiteside, and her daughter, Cherie Cole. She was also preceded by dear siblings Elizabeth Ragland, GC Campbell, Booker T. Campbell, Patty Jean Pettus, Clifton Ray Campbell, and Linda Idella Dupee. Willie Mae leaves to cherish her memory her loving children Gladys Fowler, Charles, and Nita Whiteside; grandchildren Tiekeyia and (Frederick) Davis, Londra and (Howard) Reed, Ladreama Whiteside, Lastarra Fowler, Vakeno Whiteside, Yakema Whiteside; and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and friends who will continue to carry forward her spirit of perseverance, generosity, and love. Those who knew Willie Mae knew what it meant to be genuinely cared for. She had a gift for making people feel seen and cherished — and nowhere was that more evident than in her kitchen and with her famous sweet tea. She always found out what your favorite meal was and made sure it was ready, seasoned with love and joy when you stopped by to visit. Her cooking wasn’t just nourishment; it was her way of wrapping you in comfort and saying, “You matter to me.” She taught her children not just how to survive, but how to thrive — with dignity, faith, and kindness. Her legacy lives on in every act of love they carry forward, in every story shared, and in the strength they draw from her example.

Ms. Willie Mae Whiteside

May 5, 1928 - October 7, 2025