GRAYSVILLE, Ala. – Ginger Whitworth — the wonderfully eccentric, ditty-singing sidekick of Alabama’s beloved, weather-predicting groundhog, Smith Lake Jake — passed away on Nov. 17, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer. She was 76.
“Since childhood, Ginger seemed to have a natural connection with animals,” said Ginger’s sister, Cyndi Calhoun. “Her heart was always open to any critter, and she devoted her life to loving, protecting and rescuing animals.”
Ginger and Heath Whitworth’s Graysville home gradually became a sanctuary for unwanted and injured creatures. Locals who could no longer care for a pet, struggled with vet bills or stumbled upon an injured animal often ended up at Ginger’s door — usually on the recommendation of the town veterinarian. Her remarkable story eventually carried her all the way to New York City and an appearance on “The Queen Latifah Show.”…