Judith "Estelle" Whiteside

MILLS RIVER — Judith “Estelle” Whiteside, age 86, a lifelong resident of Mills River, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 20th, 2025, at 7:30 a.m., surrounded by her loving family.

Born on Christmas Day in Mills River, Estelle was the daughter of the late Robert Clinton Whiteside and Hilda Cathey Whiteside. She was preceded in death by her beloved siblings, Robert “Bob” Whiteside, Jean Williams, and Margaret Baldwin. Her passing marks the end of an era for a family deeply rooted in the community.

Estelle was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her children: Karen Furnari, Deborah Muse, and Richard “Chuck” Murdock; her cherished grandchildren: Dustin Furnari (Brittany), Karla Furnari, Katie Wilson (Andrew), Lauren Muse, and Tanner Muse (Eric Stevens); and her adored great-grandchildren: Zelda, Penelope, Joseph, Jonathan Joel “JJ,” and Adelaide “Addie”

She is also survived in death by many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly: Lisa, Leslie, Robin, Donald, Kay, Sussie, Joe, Margaret, Larry, Ricky, Cathy, Brian, and Tracy. Estelle embraced her extended family wholeheartedly and was a constant source of love and laughter in their lives.

Estelle proudly served her community as a rural mail carrier with the United States Postal Service for nearly 30 years. In addition, she was an original member of the Mills River Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary, where she generously gave her time and heart in support of local first responders.

She was also a proud lifelong member of the ’57 Club, made up of her high school classmates who graduated together and remained close through the decades. The remaining members of the club, who continued to gather, laugh, and reminisce well into their later years, were a source of deep joy and connection for Estelle. In addition, she cherished her monthly lunches with her remaining class members, a treasured tradition that kept their lifelong bonds strong and spirits high.

Known for her sharp one-liners, catchy tunes, and infectious laughter, Estelle had a gift for lighting up any room she entered. Her big heart, boundless energy, and sense of fun made her the life of every gathering.

To her grandchildren, she was affectionately known as “Meemaw.” But Estelle’s love extended far beyond her immediate family. Her warmth was contagious, and those who knew her quickly felt like family. She wasn’t just Meemaw to her own — she was Meemaw to all.

Judith “Estelle” Whiteside leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, resilience, and connection. She will be missed deeply and remembered always — in every story told, every tune hummed, every warm smile shared, and every gathering where her spirit still lives on.

A celebration of Estelle’s life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her memory by sharing a laugh with someone you love, singing a favorite tune, or simply being the kind of friend Estelle always was.

Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.