menu

We have been made aware that families being served by Fox & Weeks are being contacted by individuals requesting payment over the phone. Fox & Weeks will not contact a family requesting payment over the phone. Please contact the Savannah Police Department immediately if you are contacted and asked to make payment over the phone. Please contact Fox & Weeks if you have any questions.

Celebrating the life of

Kathie Tucker

August 21, 1952 - February 11, 2024

Kathie Tucker

Kathie Tucker, a remarkable woman known for her compassionate heart, adventurous spirit, and unwavering love to many, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2024, in Savannah, Georgia surrounded by those dear to her. She was 71 years old.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, on August 21, 1952, Kathie was the daughter of Claudette Viltz and Henry Leslie Goggans. 

Her greatest joy in life was her family who affectionally called her “Kak Kak.” She is survived by the love of her life, Rick Gilpin, with whom she shared 23 devoted years building a memorable life. She leaves behind her loving children Chris, Courtney, and Carrie. Kathie adored her nine grandchildren along with five great-grandchildren.  Her family provided her the strength to continue fighting a long-term illness until the very last breath. 

Despite the challenges faced, Kathie persevered against the odds with her will and strong faith in the Lord. She bravely fought illness with a courageous spirit inspiring all who knew her.

Kathie's many passions included writing, modeling, animal rights and gardening. She was an avid fisherwoman who loved the water. Her artistic talents were boundless--she expressed herself through playing the piano and painting.

Kathie was not only a lover of nature, but of all creatures great and small. Her home was a sanctuary for countless animals she rescued over the years. Her love for them guided others to follow in her footsteps. 

A celebration of Kathie's life will be held at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, located at 7200 Hodgson Memorial Chapel, Savannah, Georgia, on February 17, 2024. The visitation starts at 11:00am and funeral service will commence at 12:00pm, providing an opportunity for all to share their fondest memories and pay their respects.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the local animal shelter or Hospice Savannah. The exceptional care and support provided by the devoted medical staff at Hospice of Savannah were deeply appreciated, and the family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for their compassionate care.

Kathie Tucker's legacy will be etched forever in the hearts and minds of all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her selflessness, kindness, and devoted love will serve as a guiding light for generations to come. May she find eternal peace as she reunites with those who preceded her in heaven.

"Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy."
- Eskimo Proverb

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

Image
GUEST BOOK

We are deeply sorry for the loss of Kathie to Rick and all her wonderful family. We enjoyed every moment shared in their company. Such a remarkable woman!

- Larry & Peg Sierra & Family, Dayton, Ohio

I never had the opportunity to personally meet Kathie, but was blessed by befriending her mother, Claudette, for many years. Claudette always talked about her to me and marveled at the courage and strength with which Kathie battled her illness for years and years. I was fortunate enough to meet other immediate family members. I was so impressed by them all...so kind, loving and caring. They made me feel so comfortable, I felt like family. It's clear to see that Kathie embodied remarkable qualities passed on to her by Claudette. Between the two matriarchs, they have instilled the same wonderful characteristics in the generations that followed. I will pray for God to provide comfort and peace beyond understanding to the family and friends of Kathie Tucker...and especially to my dear, dear friend, Kathie's mother, Claudette Viltz.

- Carol A Smith, Hogansville, GA

Mom, you’re gonna be missed by so many . Blake ,Ashton, Canaan , Cameron , Baylor , and of course me your son will strive to make you proud everyday . We love you (Kak Kak).

- The Donnellys , Flowery Branch , GEORGIA

Rick, Chris, Courtney, and Carrie, I'm so very sorry for your loss.... for our loss. Kathy was an amazing person; very smart, talented, witty, funny. A truly lovely person. She was a dedicated and loyal friend. We always think there will be 'tomorrow' to talk or visit or get together.... Life and distance often get in our way, we get wrapped up in our own life, our own problems, our own whatever.... then live with the regret when someone we love isn't here to 'put it off till tomorrow'. I love you, Kathy! Thank you for being my friend for the past 35 years. I will miss you. Go rest, be with God. Rest in peace dear friend. Love always, Susie

- susie sikes, Savannah, Georgia

A candle has been lit!

- The Donnellys , Flowery Branch , GEORGIA

We are so sadden by the news of Kathie's death. I can’t image how difficult it is to lose a child, a sibling, or a parent at such an early age. Ronnie and I have such fond memories of our times with Kathie and her family. Ronnie as her cousin and me as a person married into the family. They always made me feel special and played such an important part in our early marriage. My prayers for all of you. May God give you the peace that passes all understanding. Love you, Ronnie and Peggy

- The Ronnie Lamberts, Tiger , GA

I will miss you fo the rest of my life, Love. You made me a better man and I loved you so. I pray you find peace. Please hug Mama Joe's neck for me, honey. Love always...

- Rick Gilpin, Pooler, Georgia

Kathie will always be my older sister and I will keep her in my heart and thoughts forever. Life was always a challenge for her but she had a gift to always do it her way.

- Philip Goggans, Cleveland, TN

You will be missed each and everyday, especially around 6PM when we would have our daily chat and discuss what’s for dinner. Sometimes exchanging pictures if it was something especially appetizing. Even Polo waits by the door awaiting your return as you had always done. Rest in peace, my Kathie, in the loving arms of God. His will is not always our will but He will supply the strength to accept it. You are my first born and will always be in my heart. I love you, Kathie, your Mom

- Claudette Viltz, Pinehurst, N.C.

Kak Kak, I am so grateful to have you as my grandmother and to remember all the amazing memories we shared. I still feel your love and will miss you dearly. One of my favorite memories with you was simply sitting on the couch and laughing as your incredible humor lit up the room.

- Avery Sierra, Pinehurst, NC

A candle has been lit!

- Harold and Denise Lee, Bluffton, SC

A candle has been lit!

Ms. Kathy's smile will forever be missed. Sending prayers to Rick and family.

- Danielle Goldhill, Midway, GA

Please accept my sincere condolences . Kathy was truly a remarkable beautiful and intelligent woman and a loyal friend. The love she showed me I will always hold dear in my heart. I enjoyed our many talks over the years. I was honored to have been chosen to help Kathie along the way with her journey and medical situation. It was truly an honor to have Kathie as a true friend and confidant. Her beauty will always shine within my heart. Rick your unwavering love and care for Kathy was immeasurable. You were a true gem in her life and a treasure that she cherished more than anything. My prayers for you and for her precious mom and family. Rip friend until we meet again on the other side of eternity. Your work here is done and God said, well

- Kaye Puissant Hafford , Dublin , Georgia

Mom-there isn’t a day that I don’t miss you. Your unconditional love and support was amazing to receive. You were so talented and smart. It’s quiet without you on the piano or the other end of the phone. I’ll never forget a memory you gave me and I’m forever grateful to you for the days you fought to stay with us here. I love you-Carrie

- Carrie , Savannah , Ga

A candle has been lit!

- Carrie Donnelly, Savannah , Ga

Kat kat, I will miss your witty jokes that never failed to make me laugh, your sound advice that I value so much, hearing you say “hey girl” every time we called, and your unconditional love that you always reminded me of. I will cherish all of our memories for the rest of my life. I will always strive to make you proud and I know that you’re watching over all of us and smiling. Hug Mama Jo for me. I love you. -Ashton.

- ashton donnelly, buford, georgia

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200