Carol Sue Colley Whitwer died Sunday evening, October 13, 2024, at 86, surrounded by her family at home. She peacefully passed from this earthly life to eternal peace and rest.
After a brief illness, followed by hospice care, she was determined to stay in her beloved home in Geneva Gardens in Madison, with her friends and family by her side.
Carol Sue was a loving and devoted wife for almost 50 years to the late William (Bill) Whitwer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Colley of Pensacola, and her brother, Captain Donald Colley, of Alexandria, Virginia.
She is survived by her daughter, Karla Whitwer Collins, and her son-in-law, Lieutenant Guy Collins, and her granddaughter, Daisy Reece Collins, her daughter, Karen Whitwer Carpenter, and her son-in-law Scott Carpenter, sister-in-law, Harriett Colley, nephews, Andrew and Dan Colley, and their families.
Carol Sue had an idyllic life that began in Pensacola on September 23, 1938. She had a wonderful childhood surrounded by lots of family and friends. Much time was spent at their family house on the bay in Pensacola that was built by her father and brother. Her home church of McIlwain Presbyterian Church was a big part of her life, being only a block away from home in East Hill. She had many dear friends that she kept up with until her death.
She attended and graduated from Florida State University. She was an English major and a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority there. She was a lifelong, passionate fan of the Seminoles. Saturdays in the fall were spent cheering on and yelling at her Seminoles in front of the television.
After graduating from FSU, she began her teaching career in Florida. She spent most of her summers traveling in Europe with friends. Her love of travel was passed on to both of her daughters. She met Bill at the Institute at McIlwain and had a long courtship, due to their work and travel schedules.
Carol Sue and Bill were united in marriage July 10, 1971 at McIlwain Pres, presided by lifelong friend Jim Baird. They started their married life in Gadsden, Alabama, where their first daughter, Karla, was born. In 1974, they moved to Jackson, where Bill was on staff at First Presbyterian Church. Their second daughter, Karen, was born in Jackson in 1977.
Carol Sue was a loving wife and mother. Her quick wit, intellect, and love for people made her a great preacher’s wife. She taught Bible studies, VBS, and Sunday school. Her gift was opening up her home to entertain many guests.
As a mother, she was self-sacrificing, generous, accepting, and so much fun. She was the best “Gaga” to her beloved granddaughter, Daisy. They spent many hours gardening, baking, and reading. She was a great water skier and enjoyed all things to do at the beach. Beach trips with friends and her family were among her favorite times.
She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Funeral will be held on October 16, 2024, at Madison Heights Church in Madison at 2:00 p.m., with graveside service and reception to follow at Madison Heights lodge. There will be no visitation prior to the service. Memorial may be sent to Madison Heights Church, located at 415 Bozeman Road, Madison, Mississippi, 39110, or Mississippi Fellowship of Christian Athletes, located at 323 U.S. Highway 51, Ridgeland, Mississippi, 39157.
