Andy Whittington, 59

December 19, 1966  –  June 5, 2026

Andrew “Andy” Frederick Whittington, 59, passed quietly in his home in Brandon, Mississippi on June 5, 2026 leaving behind many loving family and friends, but also smiles and warmth. Those who knew Andy were inspired by his kind and gentle spirit and his uncommon ability to brighten the moods of others. Andy believed that laughter is a form of love, and he was full of both.

Andy was born on December 19, 1966, in Amory, Mississippi, to A.L. and Pamela A. Whittington. He graduated from W.P. Daniel High School in 1985 with both a diploma and a Class 3A golf championship in hand.

Following his experience in college, farming, and golf course construction, Andy earned a Master’s Degree in Agricultural Economics from Mississippi State University in 2006. This qualification led to his position as Environmental Programs Coordinator for the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, where he dedicated 20 years of service. He devoted his career to strengthening MS Agriculture through a rare combination of technical expertise, relationship building, and genuine care for the people behind the industry. As Environmental Programs Coordinator for Mississippi Farm Bureau, he served as a critical bridge between farmers, regulatory agencies, and industry partners.

Throughout his tenure at FB, he became known not only for his policy expertise but also for his dedication to solving real problems for farmers. Whether addressing wildlife issues, regulatory burdens, or conservation practices, Andy approached each challenge with a mindset centered on collaboration and trust. Some of his most impactful contributions to the agriculture industry include the Mississippi Farm Bureau “Bee Aware” Program, Mississippi Black Vulture Depredation Program, Mississippi Wild Hog Control Program, starting the Mississippi division of the Leopold Conservation Award, working on National Ambient Air Quality Standards and Waters of the State Regulation, hosting numerous task force and study committee meetings, and addressing pesticide issues.

Andy was a true leader and widely respected and admired by his peers across all 50 states. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was a genuine friend to everyone in the Farm Bureau and agriculture industry family, welcoming new members with warmth, kindness, and generosity that made others feel instantly at home.

Andy married the love of his life, Lori Maddox, also from New Albany, MS, and they spent 18 happy years together in Brandon, Mississippi. He was pre-deceased by his parents. Andy is survived by his wife, Lori Whittington, son, Logan Lovvorn (Lauren), sisters, Karen Lawrence and Laura Fennell (Mac), sisters-in-law, Yolonda Harris (Colin), June Courson, Kathy McDonald (Ernie), brother-in-law Buddy Maddox, and mother-in-law, Jean Maddox. He is also survived by host of nieces and nephews, all who adored and looked up to him.

He also leaves behind many friends, from all over the United States, and many amusing stories to share.

After being diagnosed with glioblastoma in August of 2025, Andy not only continued to maintain a positive attitude and a belief that he still lived a blessed life, he made it his goal to spread joy and positivity everywhere he went. He never left the house without a pocket full of “tiny Jesuses” to give to random people everywhere he went, with the hope to lift their spirits and let them know that they are loved and not alone. “Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” (Marcel Proust) Rest assured, Andy planted seeds wherever he went, and because of that, left a lasting impression on all who he came in contact with.

Services to honor Andy’s life will be Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at New Albany Presbyterian Church at 2:00 pm with Rev. Stephen Ewing and Rev. William Everett officiating, with Visitation beginning at 11:00 am until service time. Burial will be at Vista Memorial Park.

Rest in peace Andrew Frederick Whittington. Your love survives you.

Information regarding visitation, funeral arrangements…In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society for Glioblastoma research or to the charity/organization of your choice.

United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these services.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

~

~