Millie Whitson Workman

With heavy hearts, we mourn the sudden passing of Millicent "Millie" Whitson Workman, who departed from this world on January 29, 2024, at her home in Plano, TX. Millie was not just a beloved figure but an inspirational force in the realms of risk management and insurance, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched.

Millie was born on March 31, 1947, and was the only child of Donald Smith Whitson and Sarah Amelia White Whitson who predeceased her in 1997 and 2004, respectively. Her survivors include first cousins Annise Whitson Mock of Pensacola, FL and Lauren Whitson Mohundro of Powder Springs, GA. She grew up in Brownsville, Tennessee and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Union University in 1969, at the top of her class with degrees in biology and chemistry. She was a member of Alpha Chi and Chi Omega Sorority. 

Millie's professional journey was one of dedication and excellence. As a risk manager, she exhibited unparalleled expertise and commitment, earning the admiration and respect of colleagues and peers throughout her illustrious career. Her passion for her craft extended beyond her own endeavors; she devoted herself to nurturing the next generation of professionals, imparting wisdom and guidance to countless students embarking on their paths in risk and insurance. Throughout her career she served on numerous boards that support college students, including being the first non-alumni Chair of the Ole Miss Insurance Advisory Board. She was a favored speaker and supporter of Gamma Iota Sigma, a collegiate insurance association. 

Millie was highly active in the risk management and insurance industry and was active in consulting on risk management issues since 1986. She was a leader in the industry in Memphis, TN, serving as Director of Risk Financing for Baptist Memorial Health Care Corp, one of the largest non-profit health care systems in the country. She served as Director of Risk Management for Mueller Industries and for Belz Enterprises during her career in Memphis. She continued her work at International Risk Management Institute (IRMI) in Dallas until her retirement in 2023. 

Her contributions to the field were numerous and widely recognized. Serving on numerous professional and academic boards, Millie exemplified leadership and vision, shaping the landscape of risk management with her insights and foresight. Her tenure as President of the CPCU Society from 2005 to 2006 stood as a testament to her leadership prowess, guiding over 25,000 industry professionals with grace and distinction. She spoke to many professional groups including the CPCU Society, RIMS, ASSE, and the National Coordinating Council of Emergency Managers. She was cofounder of the Business Emergency Preparedness Council and the Memphis Disaster Recovery Business Alliance, coalitions that focus on business continuation planning. 

Among her many accolades, Millie's crowning achievement came in the form of being elected as Risk Manager of the Year in 1992 and one of the “100 Leading Women in the Insurance Industry” in 2000 by the Business Insurance, honors that reflected not only her professional expertise but also the profound impact she had on her peers and the industry at large. She also was inducted into the Tennessee Insurance Hall of Fame in 2002 and earned her Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation in 1975 and her Associate in Underwriting designation in 1979. She was active in RIMS and was past president of the Memphis Chapter of RIMS.

Beyond her professional achievements, Millie was cherished for the warmth of her friendship and the depth of her compassion. Countless individuals, drawn to her magnetic personality and genuine kindness, regarded her as family. To many, she was more than a friend; she was Aunt Millie, known for her unwavering support and generosity. Millie's absence will be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be interred at Allen Baptist Church Cemetery in Brownsville, TN on Friday, April 19, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Friends and family are encouraged to attend. Memorials may be sent to Gamma Iota Sigma Insurance Fraternity at secure.givelively.org.