Sally McClure Whitlock, age 85, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, in Fairhope, Alabama, surrounded by loving family members. Born on August 31, 1940, in Atlanta, Georgia, growing up in LaGrange, Georgia, Sally brought joy and light to those fortunate enough to know her.
Sally was known for her radiant smile and warm personality. She had an exceptional sense of humor, kindness, and a welcoming demeanor that endeared her to many. Her life was defined by her deep love for her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom she cherished with all her heart.
At a young age, Sally married her high school sweetheart, Gary, and together they welcomed three daughters before she turned 21. As Gary pursued a career in the Army, Sally embraced the challenges of being a career Army wife. Together, they traveled from California to Germany and throughout several states over the following years. Despite the difficulties inherent in military life, Sally flourished, meeting diverse individuals and forming lasting friendships, all while nurturing her family's bonds.
Sally is survived by her daughters, Beth Bowen (Dale) of LaGrange, Georgia, and Lydia Barber (Jeff) of Daphne, Alabama. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Nicki Bassman (Matt) of St. Charles, Missouri, Sara Lyttle (Bret) of Niceville, Florida, Daniel Bowen of Jacksonville, Florida, Tim Bowen (Tara), Zack Bowen, and Katie Bowen, all of LaGrange, Georgia, Josh Baldwin (Alye) of LaGrange, Georgia, Taylor Barber of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and Jackson Barber of Daphne Alabama, as well as seven great-grandchildren who will remember her warmth and joy.
Sally was preceded in death by her husband, Major Gary Brown Whitlock, her daughter, Ellen Whitlock Baldwin, her grandson, Allen Matthew Barber, and her parents, William Melvin McClure and Lura Reid McClure.
Her memory will forever serve as a beacon of love, laughter, and resilience to all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we remember Sally, we celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind in the hearts of her family and friends.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 27th, from 1 pm to 3 pm at Higgins Funeral Home, 506 Hill Street in LaGrange, Georgia. A private family graveside service will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity that was very dear to Sally's heart, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Please go to aspca.org to donate or give a memorial gift. To give a memorial gift, click on aspca.org, type memorial gift in the search bar. My email is lydiabarber1@gmail.com for their information. Thank you very much.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Sally McClure Whitlock, please visit our flower store.Higgins Funeral Home
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