Elaine Tidwell Whatley

Elaine Tidwell Whatley passed away peacefully at home on February 12, 2025. She was born on November 22, 1939 to Charles and Corinne Tidwell in Greenville, South Carolina. After graduating from Parker High School, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the Medical College of Georgia. She married her beloved Pete in 1961 going on to have three sons, Will, Charles and David. Elaine decided to dedicate her life to being a mother. She was a wonderful and caring mother who supported her family in every possible way. She spent countless hours attending school and sporting events involving her children and grandchildren. She spent many more hours cooking to feed three hungry sons and Pete.

In addition to caring for her family, she volunteered at University Hospital as a “Pink Lady” for many years. She was a member of the Women’s Board of University Hospital and served a term as president. She was active in the delivery of Meals on Wheels. She enjoyed attending Margaret Parker’s bible study group and teaching adult Sunday school classes for the Jane Well’s class at St. Mark Methodist Church. 

Elaine and Pete traveled extensively both in the United States and abroad but their favorite place on earth was their home in Lands End, South Carolina on the Beaufort River.

Surviving family members include sons: Dr. William L. Whatley, Jr. (Michelle), Charles E. Whatley (Lisa) and David N. Whatley (Jennifer); seven grandchildren: Ben (Liza), Joel (Jackie), Charles, Corinne, Mason, Reece and Neil and three great grandchildren Muni, Sawyer, and Mazz. She was preceded in death by her loving husband: William (Pete) L. Whatley; parents: Charles and Corinne; brother: Charles Jr.; stepfather: Lieutenant Colonel retired John Carter and nephew: Wade Tidwell.

The funeral service will be held Monday, February 17, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. Mark Methodist Church with the Rev. Dr. Sargent Nelson officiating. Interment will follow at Westover Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends Monday one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mark Methodist Church, 2367 Washington Road Augusta, GA 30904.

The family would like to express special thanks to caregivers Shannon Ryle, Geneva Gilyard, Kira Freeman, Laronda Beall, Savannah River Pro Home Care, Jacki Lee Rodgers, Georgia Hospice Care and Charles and Anna Demmons.