Celebrating the life of
James Mathew Weeks
February 21, 1945 - June 16, 2026
James Mathew Weeks, (Jim, Jimmy, Coco) 81, of Savannah Georgia, passed away peacefully at his home on June 16, 2026 at Isle of Hope, surrounded by his loving family. With courage and dignity, he maintained that twinkle in his eye, even as he battled Cancer and just long enough to welcome his identical twin great-grandsons into the world. Having been an identical twin himself, he passed the torch to the next generation to charm Savannah.
Born on February 21, 1945, to Stephen Elmo Weeks and Olna Elizabeth (Beth) Solana Weeks, Jim was a true Savannah native and loved the place he called home. Well known throughout Savannah due to his unique career and “twin” status, he answered to either Jim or Steve only correcting those when they swore they could tell them apart. As a child, Ardsley Park was his playground where he made lifelong friends and memories that included late-night basketball games that his mother often times endured long past daylight hours.
It was in eighth grade that a certain young girl named Joyce Tillman would catch his attention. They each attended Savannah High School, where Jim was a standout athlete, eventually being awarded a diving scholarship to the University of Florida. But it was his Junior year in high school that Jim caught a bug, the love bug. He danced his way into the heart of Joyce, where a romance would ensue that would forever change the course of his life.
He attended the University of Florida for his freshman year, pledging Sigma Chi and having roomed with Steve Spurrier. But that wasn’t enough to keep him there; he soon left to pursue Joyce. They were married on September 16, 1967, as he finished up his degree from Armstrong Atlantic State University, where he served as President of the student body. Years later, in 2010, he would receive the AASU’s notable alumni award.
After graduation, Jim and Joyce headed to Dallas, Texas, where he would attend Mortuary School to join the family business, Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors. Joyce perfectly matched Jim’s rhythm and followed his lead. They would go on to have three children, Matt, Holly and Lisa. As a father, the saying is true: the best thing a man can do for his kids is to love their mother well, and that he did with all his heart. Having been married for almost 60 years, their relationship was a rarity. Jim was his wife’s biggest advocate and often said, “My greatest achievement in life was marrying Joyce.”
Jim entered the family business in the year of 1969 serving the community of Savannah for 56 years. It was a calling he felt passionate about, meeting the needs of those walking through a deep valley in life. To Jim, it was not a job, it was his ministry, guiding, comforting, and at times crying right alongside the families he met with. He not only served the community of Savannah, but he would also go on to be appointed President of the Georgia State Board of Funeral Services at the age of 30, with a noted re-election in 1994. He was actively involved in the Funeral Industry Leadership, having been appointed by three different Governors and ultimately serving as President three times. Jim was also a longtime member of the Georgia Funeral Directors Association, where he served as President in 1979.
Those who knew Jim were familiar with his passion for golf. He was an accomplished amateur golfer who competed in local and national events, becoming Skidaway Islands Club Champion in the years ’79, ’82, ’85, and ‘87. He went on to qualify for the U.S. Senior Amateur Championship multiple times beginning in 2005 which led to membership into the The Society of Seniors. This enabled him to travel across the country playing elite golf courses and making friends all over the U.S. He served as President of The Savannah Golf Club and helped navigate a renovation of the course that was well received by its members, as well as serving on the committee during the redesign of the Marshwood course at the Landings.
Jim and Joyce’s shared love of golf would lead them around the globe, making friends wherever they went. Joyce often said, “Jim just attracted people who instantly wanted to be in his company.”
As time took its toll on his body and his eight grandsons took all his clubs, Jim traded the golf course for the gin table at the Savannah Golf Club, where he enjoyed many a hand at the expense of his buddies. In addition to being a member of The Savannah Golf Club and Skidaway Island, he enjoyed his memberships at The Country Club of Charleston, The Oglethorpe Club, and The Savannah Yacht Club.
His last few years of life were spent every Wednesday at Bible study, where he became what Danny Falligant, a long-time friend, would say was “his best note taker in class.”
A faithful past member of Isle of Hope United Methodist Church and later The Good Shepherd, Jim was the first to greet you and went up and down the aisle shaking hands each Sunday morning. His smile was infectious and made you feel instantly welcomed.
He was not only adored by his children and his sons-in-law and daughter-in-law, but also his eight grandsons, who affectionately called him Coco and whom he loved dearly and was known for being overly generous with.
He is survived by his wife, of 59+ years, Joyce Tillman Weeks; his son, Matt Weeks (Krista); his daughters, Holly Geriner (Clay) and Lisa Leland (Alston); grandsons, Christian Ready (Kylee), Will Geriner (Sara), Tillman Geriner (Klara), Wallace Geriner, Mathew Geriner, James Leland, Jake Leland, and Brooks Leland; great-grandsons, Isaiah Ready, John “Weeks” Geriner, and James “Strieter” Geriner. And a future great-granddaughter, who brought a large smile to his face, who is due in November. A brother, Carl Weeks; sister-in-laws who worshipped him, Judy Green (Pat), and Janice Karrh; and numerous devoted nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents, S. Elmo Weeks and Elizabeth S. Weeks; his identical twin brother, Stephen (Steve) E. Weeks; and a sister, Elizabeth (Beth) W. Sellers.
To know Jim was to love him. He was a man of integrity, honesty, and character, and often said, “As long as I can lay my head down each night knowing I did the right thing, I can sleep soundly.” Let’s just say, he never lacked for sleep. He will be missed more than what can be written here. But we remain confident of this, that we will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living when we meet again.
We have tremendous gratitude for Dr. Joe Christian and Dr. Michael Hasselle, and for the care and attention given by Charles Peeples and the Coastal Care Partners team, as well as for Erica Lang. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Good Shepherd Savannah, Union Mission, or Hospice Savannah, of which Fox & Weeks has been an advocate and supporter.
A service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, with Reverend Scott Tucker of The Good Shepherd Savannah officiating. A private family burial will be held.
My sincere condolences to the weeks family and prayers for comfort.
- Lisa Eastes, Savannah, GA
My husband Steve will probably share his thoughts separately but I remember Jim (and Steve) for what seems like forever because my sisters, Jean and Jane Powers, also were identical twins and went to school with the Weeks twins and Joyce. That was when twins were kind of a rarity so they all stood out. (Sadly, Jean died of the same cancer that Jim so bravely fought.) My brother Ken and I were much younger than the twins but I remember when Jim and Steve were lifeguards at the Golf Club. Fast forward through the years and Jim helping my family through the deaths of our parents. The obituary is such a wonderful tribute to a remarkable man. They certainly don't make them like Jim Weeks anymore. With loving memories, Polly Powers Stramm
- Polly Powers Stramm, Savannah, GA
My thoughts and prayers are with Joyce and all of the family at this difficult time. I have fond memories of Jim and Joyce at Savannah High School. May his memory be eternal. With my deepest sympathy, Irene Miltiades Purdy
- Irene Miltiades Purdy, RICHMOND, VA
Joyce, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. Jim was a wonderful guy and a good friend. God bless your family.
- B. G. Fuller , Savannah, GA
My heart goes out to you, Joyce, Matt, Holly, and Lisa. I know Jim and his sweet smile will be sorely missed. All my love, Stacy
- Stacy Fleming, Doha, Qatar
There aren't enough words to express my sincere gratitude for his kindness to my family over the years! May his memory be a blessing.
- Mary Ellen Corbell & Family, Savannah, Georgia
I'm so sorry to hear this and know that you will be in my prayers, Joyce and family. I have fond memories of our middle and high school days and then being neighbors when our children were so young. I've always admired you both and pray God's comfort and peace for your family.
- Gloria Tootle, Savannah, GA
I was saddened to see this. My memory goes back to the 70's when we first met James and Stephen, first our Mom then our Papa , then our dear son Stephen. Heartfelt feelings were given to our family during those and more over the years. I can truly say that James and all the staff were able to show our family what was needed at that time. Warmth and kindness to your family.
- Beverly Clark, Richmond Hill, GA
A candle has been lit!
Nothing but love and respect for Mr. Weeks. What a great man. Rest in Peace! My heart goes out to Joyce, my good friend Matt, and the rest of the family.
- Stephen Herb, Savannah, Ga.
A man that will be missed and remembered by so many!! Prayers going out to family. God has gathered another great angel. Hold your heads high w pride as he would smile and want u to do.
- Matt Starling, Sav, Ga
To Joyce and all the family, my deepest condolences to you all on Jim's passing. He was a great mentor to me the years I was a funeral director with the Fox & Weeks family, and I still appreciate all I learned from he and Steve. When I was a member of the F&W team I felt very proud, as they carried a tradition of excellence in the funeral industry and around Savannah, one that Jim exuded anywhere he went. My thoughts are with you all as you move through the sad days ahead.
- Craig Green, Sarasota, Florida
Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of Jim. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
- Kathy and Martin Koncul, Savannah, Georgia
Joyce and family, I'm so sorry for your loss. Having just lost John a few months ago I know from experience what you are going through. Jim was a super man and friend to all he knew, and he will be greatly missed.
- Gay Oldfield, Savannah, GA
Not being from Savannah, I was one of those folks who couldn't tell Jim and Steve apart. I just called both of them Mr. Weeks. I think the first time I really got to know Jim at all was in the old Savannah Golf Club clubhouse, where I saw him eating a hot dog, and told him it didn't look like a fair fight. As time went on I got to know and respect Jim, and he always treated me well, as he did everyone. He came to my mother in law's funeral, even though Tillman had it handled, that is the type of caring man he was. I think I was the only one who could tell him which card to throw without making him mad, although I could be wrong about that. Rest in peace Jim, you have left a great legacy to carry your memory forward.
- Richard Neal, Tybee Island, Georgia
Joyce and family, its hard to believe that Jim is gone. He was a true southern gentleman and a man of great character and integrity. I did business with Jim for many years as his banker, along with Billy Reese. That is when we could get him away from the card table at the golf club long enough to sign a note . The obit says it all and suffice it to say that Savannah has lost one of its best. I will miss him.
- steve stramm, Savannah, GA
May God Comfort your family as you have comforted so many. To his family,Know that Jim left you all with enough Love to last you a lifetime.
- Lair and Futrell Families, Savannah , Georgia
Our family has high regard and fond memories of the Weeks family. As my father, Ken Boice, retired from Fox & Weeks after many years, the Weeks' were like family. Jim will be missed by so many. He and Joyce were always so kind. My deepest sympathies to the entire family as well as the Fox & Weeks Family.
- Penny Boice Morse &The Boice family, Richmond Hill, Ga
Reading these comments and condolences is like recalling years of SHS yearbooks and notable classmates. Like so many others, I called Jim when Union Camp informed me my daddy had died on the job. The kindness shown my mother has never left my mind. They did the same nine years with mother. Gracious, funny, gentile, and devoted describe Jim, but all round good guy sums it up. Peace and comfort to all the family, especially Joyce.
- Cheryl Hunter Clemens, Savannah, GA
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Joyce and Family. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you navigate through these difficult times. Cherish every memory. Jim was definitely a Savannah Icon and will be greatly missed.
- Anna B Highsmith, Savannah, GA
A candle has been lit!
Joyce and Family. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you navigate through these difficult times. Cherish every memory. Jim was definitely a Savannah Icon and will be greatly missed.
- Anna B Highsmith, Savannah, GA
Jim was one the finest men and friend anyone could have I attended Savannah High while Jim & Steve were Seniors to me they were definitely good friends. Jim was a great employer and a pleasure to work with. I really appreciate all of his family they are all wonderful friends of mine. Jim was a man of integrity and respect Jim will definitely be missed by all that knew him what a gentleman and friend!!!!! God's Blessings for all the family and friends a true gentleman Sincerely Billy Miller
- William Miller Jr , Savannah , Georgia
Reading these comments and condolences is like recalling years of SHS yearbooks and notable classmates. Like so many others, I called Jim when Union Camp informed me my daddy had died on the job. The kindness shown my mother has never left my mind. They did the same nine years with mother. Gracious, funny, gentile, and devoted describe Jim, but all round good guy sums it up. Peace and comfort to all the family, especially Joyce.
- Cheryl Hunter Clemens, Savannah, GA
Joyce, no words can describe the love and friendship that Carolyn and I have for you and Jim. Oh the good times we had. My friend will surely be missed by all whose life he touched. Know that you and family are in our prayers. God be with you!
- Bob White, Greensboro , Ga
To Joyce, Matt, Holly and Lisa - our hearts go out to you at this difficult time. He was such a joyful man and always seemed to be able to spread that joy to everyone around him. That is one of his great gifts to me in the time I spent with him and with your family.
- Christopher and Sandra Taylor, Brunswick, Maine
Savannah has lost a wonderful man. My sincere condolences to those he called family and friends. I can believe that Jim and Steve united again will be creating mischief in heaven as they did in our 1963 graduating class after SHS. Pamela
- Pamela Redmond Wall, Savannah, GA
So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I always enjoyed his company and his welcoming manner when Marsha and I moved to Savannah in 1975. Will be greatly missed by many. The “ Southern Planters”, what a great pair they were.
- Cliff Berger, Ashburn , Virginia
Joyce and all of the Weeks family, Kathryn and I were sorry to see Jim had passed. We have known the Weeks family for many years. I played sports with Jim & Steve at SHS and enjoyed their friendship over the years. My parents and their parents were close friends for many years. We pray that God will wrap his gracious arms around all of the family and give you some peace at this time.
- Frank and Kathryn Murray, Pembroke , GA
Joyce and all of the Weeks family, Kathryn and I were sorry to see Jim had passed. We have known the Weeks family for many years. I played sports with Jim & Steve at SHS and enjoyed their friendship over the years. My parents and their parents were close friends for many years. We pray that God will wrap his gracious arms around all of the family and give you some peace at this time.
- Frank and Kathryn Murray, Pembroke , GA
Deepest condolences to the family! He was a wonderful person and will be missed! May good memories be of comfort during this time!
- Tracy &Jimmy Chance , Franklin , NC
My condolences to the family. I have great memories working and serving families with the Weeks family and staff back in the seventies.
- Hugh Starling, Harlem, GA
My Dad was a friend of Elmo. I worked at the "Call Center" for Steve and Jim. Your Family has helped bury my Mom and Dad and other relatives. Heaven knows you will bury me.
- elizabeth brazzeal, Savannah, Georgia
Shocked and so sad to get this news. Both Jim and Steve were absolutely so good and kind to me playing sports at SHS. They were Seniors and I was a sophmore. They were just a class act. Both are champions in my view. Rest in peace, Jim. Love you and Joyce. Semper Fi, Jimmy Dunn
- Jimmy Dunn, Roswell, GA
A candle has been lit!
Joyce and family! He was such a great person! We were so honored to have known him! We had so much fun at the fitness center many early mornings!!! He will be missed! Prayers are with you all at this difficult time!!!
- Cindy &Jacques Beauchamp, Evans, Ga
MY condolences to the family, I knew Mr.Weeks for over 11yr's work with the family. Real nice. May God Bless you and your family at this time
- Joseph Howard, Savannah, Georgia
I was a small child at the Golf Club when Jim and Steve were life guards. Subsequently, I knew Jim in his work capacity. He was there when borh of my parents passed away. He was always kind and gregarious. Our deepest condolences to the family.
- Catherine Dunn Kostilnik , Savannah, GA
As a former SCI employee, I had the pleasure of working with Jim for several years. I've always had great admiration for him. Rest in peace.
- David Blanton , Texarkana , TX
So sorry to hear this. Jim was a sweet person and I remember him from Savannah High class of 1963 and our Class Reunions. Joyce please know I'm sending my love and prayers to you and you family.
- Linda Roberts Cimbs, Savannah, Ga
I am saddened to hear of Jim's passing. Jim and Steve gave me my first civilian job in 1985 after returning to my hometown of Savannah after serving in the Navy. It was a wonderful experience working at the Drayton location with all the family and to serve as administrative support at the Hodgson Chapel. My sincere condolences to all of the Weeks family. Prayers for God's comfort during your time of grief.
- Andrea Bolin Ferrara, Fayetteville , GA
I was a year ahead of Jim at Savannah High School in the early 60's and had the pleasure of playing football with him. Always had a smile on his face and was easy to be around. Later, Jim was in charge of my parent's burial services and he was great to deal with showing compassion and understanding at such a sad time for me and my family. My thoughts and prayers are with the family in this most difficult time.
- Ott Tyrone Barnard, Sandy Springs, GA
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your father, Matt. I know you were very close. I will be praying for you and your family in the days ahead.❤️
- Mary Ann Butterfield, Savannah, GA
Dearest Weeks family, Peter and I send our deepest condolences to you all on the passing of Jim. We have known Jim for many years through Wesley UMC. He always had a smile on his face and when I asked him how are you, he would say "better than I deserve." (always humble and cheerful). He was a true gentleman, full of integrity and joyfulness personified. We have cherished our long friendship with Jim and the whole Weeks family. Sincerely in Christ, Bonnie Delvers.
- Delvers, Savannah, GA
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Jim will be missed. His professionalism was appreciated during trying times with my family. He was such a great guy at Tiger Club, through High School and in our adult life. What a guy!
- Bugsy Graves, Columbia, SOUTH CAROLINA
I've known Jim since the early Sixties, when he was a life guard at the Savannah Golf Club and always telling me to quit “showing off on the diving board,” but watching him dive, was amazing. Talk about identical twins, there were times I would call Jim Steve and Steve Jim. But I Mostly remember Jim overlooking the care of many deceased family members. Savannah is definitely going to miss a true Southern Gentleman! Slawn cha va, in Gaelic meaning, “Farewell my friend!”
- Billy McIntosh, Savannah, Ga
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Our deepest sympathy and condolences to the entire family.
- LM Pierce Funeral Home , Sandersville, GA
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Joyce and Family, Please accept my deepest sympathy regarding the death of my friend and colleague, Jim Weeks. We served together on the GA State Board of Funeral Service and consulted together during our funeral service careers with The Sentinel Group. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. Valerie J. Wages, CFSP
- Valerie J. Wages, CFSP, Lawrenceville, GA
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Joyce and family, I am deeply saddened to hear about Jim's death. We served together on the GA State of Funeral Service and Jim recommended me to Jerry Pullins to become a part of The Sentinel Group team back in the late 1990's. It started me on my path to becoming a Training and Development Specialist. I will never forget his support and encouragement to personally and professionally over the years. He was a loyal friend and colleague. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with you Joyce and your family during this incredibly difficult time. Wishing all of you peace and comfort as you navigate this profound loss. Valerie J. Wages, CFSP
- Valerie J. Wages, CFSP, Lawrenceville, GA
Joyce and family I am so very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He and Steve were good friends. He was a true gentleman in all ways. My prayers and heart felt go prayers go out to you and the family at this difficult times.
- Paul Weber, Savannah, Georgia
Jim was an amazing man and a great friend of our family all of my life. He could always make you smile! He will be sorely missed by all that new and loved him. Rest in Peace my friend!
- Robyn & Michele Quattlebaum, Savannah, Ga.
Joyce, Holly and family...i am so very sorry for your tremendous loss...Jim was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and just all around human being...the world is a better place having known his sweet soul...thinking of you all...
- Jincey Botwinski, Pooler, GA
Joyce, Matt and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Jim was a fine man and so very proud of his family! He will be missed by so many of us. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
- Ann Edenfield Lemley, Savannah, GA
Jim was an intricate part of the fabric of Savannah. The lives he touched both professionally and personally are countless and all of us have our particular memories of his goodness. Mine and my family's are of a lifelong association and friendship with both Jim and Joyce. The Daniels family sends sincere wishes for love and peace to the Tillman/Weeks clan.
- Joy Daniels Schwartz, Savannah, GA
What a kind man, he was in the perfect business- a true gift to those of us who have lost a loved one. He was a blessing to those who knew him.
- Lisa Birch, Savannah, Ga
Mr Weeks made a big impression on me at an early age. I went to school with Matt and we were good friends as children and through high school. We played basketball together and Mr Weeks always told us how great a game we had played and seemed truly excited for our team. Whenever I got to go over to Matt's house, I remember his dad was always fun to be around and would cut up with us. He was a wonderful example of how to be a good father and a Christian man. My prayers are with your family.
- Wes Williams , Perry, Georgia
Paul and I send our deepest condolences to Joyce and her precious family. We are so grateful to have known him as a great friend for so many years. Such wonderful memories we share which fill our hearts forever!!! To know him was to love him! He leaves a terrific legacy for his family and friends to cherish and for his devotion to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as He is welcomed into His heavenly home!
- Pat and Paul Ewaldsen, Of Savannah, Georgia
We were friends in High School and our families prior to that time. I never did give away their secret when Jim and Steve would switch places in each other's classes. Throughout the years Jim and Steve were there to hold me up in spirit as I lost family members and always managed to find a way to get me to laugh which is always the best medicine. I'm sorry that we didn't get to share U of F years together, but his love brought him back to Savannah before I arrived the following year - '64. While you may be gone for now, the memories of you will last for a very long time.
- Camille Puckett, Peachtree Corners, GA
May the angels lead him into Paradise.
- Fr. Michael J. Kavanaugh, Savannah, GA
What a wonderful man to be able to say of, “To know him was to love him.” I'm sure everyone who knows him is blessed to be a part of his life. I have been praying comfort for his daughter Holly and the family from the time I heard of his diagnosis. May God comfort you in this time of deep grief.
- Joan Kornblatt, Savannah, GA
Dear Joyce and Family, We have been friends a long time! Joyce, you and Jim had a long, loving marriage of which I'm sure you are so grateful. Jim,Steve and Mr. Weeks were there for my family on many occasions, and I will always be grateful for their smiling faces at a time of need. My sympathy and love to all of your family. God Bless you all with the comfort and peace that only He can provide. Love, Jan
- Jan Daniel Crawford, Virginia Beach, Virginia
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Funeral Service
- 10:00 a.m. on Fri, June 19, 2026
- Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
-
222 East Harris Street (map)
SAVANNAH GA 31401 - 912-233-4709
- A private burial will be held