Joan Tidwell

Joan Merritt Tidwell age 96, of Douglasville, passed away November 14, 2025. As a lifelong resident of Douglas County, she graduated from Douglas County High School with the Class of 1946. She went on to attend LaGrange College for two years before graduating from the Atlanta Division of the University of Georgia (now known as Georgia State University) in 1950.

Mrs. Tidwell began her career managing her father’s insurance company and later served as a bookkeeper for Tidwell Construction Company and Tidwell Farms. A devoted supporter of the University of Georgia, she remained a proud and loyal fan throughout her life.

Her faith and her church family were central to her life. She was the oldest continuous member of Douglasville First United Methodist Church, having been part of the congregation for 89 years. She was actively involved in Meals on Wheels, serving her community with kindness and dedication. She was also active in the Cowbells, an affiliate of the Georgia Cattleman’s Association.

Joan is survived by her children, Rosemon Tidwell, Dr. Joel Tidwell and his wife, Mary, Sam Tidwell and his wife, Julie and Jack Tidwell and his wife, Kimberly; 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray E. Tidwell, brothers, Colonel Bruce Merritt and his wife, Mary and Lieutenant Colonel Doyle Merritt and his wife, Betty.

Funeral services will be held at Douglasville First United Methodist Church Wednesday, November 19 at 2:00 pm. The family will receive friends in the Huffine Hall from 12:30 pm until 2:00 pm. Interment will take place at Douglasville City Cemetery.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Amazing Grace Hospice Care for the extraordinary compassion and support they provided. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Douglasville First United Methodist Church.