Josh Wimberly

Joshua “Josh” Charles Wimberly

February 12, 1977 – September 7, 2022

Josh was preceded in death by his father, John J. “Bubba” Wimberly; grandfather John J. “Bruzz” Wimberly and grandmother Florence Spikes Wimberly Jones; grandfather Lewis Clifton Williams and grandmother Bertha Yvonne Williams. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly; children Bryan (10) and Norah (7) Wimberly; mother, Jamie Williams Wimberly; uncle, Russell Wimberly (Carlita); cousins; and many beloved friends.

A native of Mobile, AL, Josh graduated from McGill-Toolen Catholic High School in 1995. He attended Auburn University his freshman year and remained a devoted Tigers fan. He graduated from Spring Hill College in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and earned a PhD in Social Work from the University of Alabama in 2012. Following his academic career, he served as the Director of Institutional Assessment at Spring Hill College where he was able to teach some undergraduate sociology classes and participate in the Ignatian Colleagues Program. 

In 2007, Josh’s world was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer, which eventually metastasized to his lungs in 2009. After losing half of his lung, he took up running and strength training. He went on to run two marathons and completed six Tough Mudder obstacle courses. His physical fitness journey continued with his friends at JH Crossfit – they always cheered him on and encouraged him through every medical and physical milestone. 

After his cancer diagnosis, Josh joined the advocacy organization Fight Colorectal Cancer, where he served on the Grassroots Action Committee. He met with Congressional Representatives and Senators to advocate for legislation that increases colorectal cancer screenings and advances biomedical research. 

Josh was a proud and active member of the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in West Mobile. Not only did he serve as a member of the church’s vestry, but he also raised enough funds at his 10-year “cancer-versary” party to build a new playground on its campus. 

But of all Josh’s accomplishments, he was most proud of his family – his wife of 17 years, Kimberly, his son Bryan, and daughter Norah. From coaching t-ball for both kids and cooking in the kitchen, Josh was always devoted to his family.

There is not enough room on this page to describe all that Josh was in his 45 years of life. How his laugh filled a room. How he had a love of and talent for music. How he could humble you in one moment with his real-world perspective and have you in stitches in the next. How he held compassion for others, even in his most difficult times. And so, we go forward with the love he gave us, the memories we share, and the lessons he taught us.

As he would say, “Ever onward.”