Worth Fulghum Obituary

Worth Bagley "Big Boy" Fulghum, Jr., of Lake City, FL, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Born on October 20, 1941, in North Carolina to Worth and Verna Mae Fulghum, Worth grew up in Spring Hope, NC, where his mischievous spirit and love of fast cars often led him into a few sticky situations.
But everything changed when he met a kind, God-loving young woman named Mary Sue Edwards. She captured his heart, and together they began a love story that lasted more than six decades. They married in April of 1964, and with Mary Sue's unwavering love and God's guidance, Worth felt the Lord's call to ministry. He went on to earn two master's degrees in theology and ministry, becoming clay in the hands of the Potter.
Throughout his ministry, Worth faithfully shepherded congregations at Venetia Terrace Baptist Church in Jacksonville, FL, Pinemount Baptist Church in McAlpin, FL, and Grace Chapel in Live Oak, FL. Even in retirement, he remained active in his faith as a member of First Baptist Church in Live Oak.
When Worth wasn't in the pulpit, you could find him at the drag strip. His passion for both God and racing was at the heart of his life, and he passed those loves down to his children - Little Worth (III), John, and Rhonda. He brought his entire family into the world of drag racing, creating countless cherished memories along the way. Worth continued racing alongside his son, Little Worth, for many years, proudly watching his legacy live on at the track.
Worth's life was defined by his love for the Lord, his family, and the joy he found in sharing both faith and fun with those he loved.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Mary Sue Fulghum; his children, Worth Bagley Fulghum, III (Lisa) of Middleburg, FL, John Gregory Fulghum of Spring Hope, NC, and Rhonda Kazmierski (Greg) of Lake City, FL; his brother, Curtis Fulghum (Tammy); his sister, Phyllis Martin; grandchildren, Noah, Haley (Cole), Connor, and Bayley; and his great-granddaughter, Willow. He was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas "Duck" Fulghum.
Worth's life will be honored at a funeral service on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 1205 SW Mount Carmel Ave, Lake City, FL, United States, Florida in Lake City, FL. A viewing will precede the service at 10:00 a.m., and interment will immediately follow in the church cemetery.
His memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him, and his legacy of faith and family will continue to inspire.
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Harry T. Reid Funeral Home