March 18, 1976 ~ December 30, 2025 (age 49)
Bethany Michelle Fulghum, beloved mother, partner, daughter, and friend, left this world on December 30, 2025, at the age of 49. Born in Langdale, Alabama, on March 18, 1976, Bethany was a shining light in the lives of those who knew her. She passed away peacefully in Opelika, Alabama, surrounded by her loving family.
Bethany will forever be cherished by her daughter, Jordyn White, her partner, Brian Lucas, and her mother, Jane McKenzie. She was the dear sister to Chris Kirk and her sister-in-law Cheryl Fulghum and is fondly remembered by her nieces, Jessica Steele (Patrick) and Cierra Kirk. Bethany was a treasured member of an extensive family network, including her cherished aunts and uncles, Craig McKenzie, Judy Hodges, Neal & Claudel McKenzie, Jean Hurst, David & Jeanne McKenzie, and a host of cousins.
She was preceded in death by her cherished sons, Tyler and Tyson Fulghum; her brother, Rick Fulghum; her father, Phillip Fulghum; her grandparents, Russell & Alyce McKenzie and Charlie & Nellie Fulghum; and her special friend, Wendy Whaley.
Bethany was renowned for her exceptional culinary skills— an excellent cook who could prepare gourmet meals at a moment’s notice, bringing joy and comfort to those she fed. Her passion for life included a deep love for music, the beach, and her canine companions. Bethany possessed an extraordinary intellect and a compassionate spirit, attributes that drew people to her and made her a formidable advocate in her many involvements and associations.
Those who were fortunate enough to know Bethany could attest to her kindness, intelligence, and friendliness, which made her a beloved figure in her community and afar. She was always ready to lend an ear, share a smile, or offer her support. Bethany’s compassionate and generous nature will be a guiding light to those she has left behind.
A memorial service for Bethany will be held on Tuesday, January 6th, 2026, at 4:00 PM (EST) at the Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home Chapel in Valley. The Reverend Donnie Erwin-Brown and Mr. Jay Hinkle will officiate. Bethany’s family will receive friends Tuesday afternoon at the funeral home from 3:00 PM (EST) until the service hour.
Please visit Bethany’s Memorial Tribute page to leave a kind word for her family, to share a memory of Bethany, or to light a Remembrance Candle in her memory.
Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home of Valley directing.
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