James Henry Whittaker

May 22, 1945 - February 16, 2021

James H. Whittaker fondly know as (Hen) was born May 22, 1945 to the late Rankin and Elizabeth Whittaker. James Whittaker transitioned from this life Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, TN. He lost his battle with lung cancer. He was preceded in death by parents, brother, Walter and sister, Anna Laura. James graduated from Carver Smith High School in 1963. Upon graduating, he attended Tennessee State University where he earned his Bachelors of Science Degree in Political Science in 1969. He retired after 36 years of service from Pirelli Tire Company. James was a member and senior Deacon of First Baptist Church, South Inglewood since 1998 under the leadership of Pastor Henry K. Smith and Pastor Napoleon Harris. James was an active member of the senior usher board until his health began to decline. He was also a member of the Margaret Maddox Family YMCA where he earned the award for “Volunteer of the Year” in 2006. He later went on to work for the Metropolitan Board of Education as a substitute teacher. Lastly, he worked for Opryland on the General Jackson for 5 years in the gift shop until he became ill. He survived by his devoted, loving daughter and Caregiver, Lisa K. Whittaker and daughter LaKeisha D. Whittaker; friend and Ex-Wife of 16 years, Gloria Whittaker; a very special friend forever, Virginia Woodmore; sisters, Dorothy Polk of Vallejo, CA., Stephanie (Gary) Witherspoon of Columbia, TN; brothers, Michael E. Sr. (Deborah) Whittaker and Robert Whittaker of Columbia, TN; grandchildren, Brandy (Zach) Bryn, and Noah Joyner of Chicago, IL. Andrew L. Jr. and Andre L. Hereford of Nashville, TN. and a very special little boy name Ethan Hearns whom he adored like a grandson, nieces, Beatrice, Denia, Yolanda, Roxie (Darnell) Spencer; nephews, Gary Jr., Michael III, and Ashley; great nephews, Ryheim and Jekenon; great niece, Chasity Timmons and KaDarra (Gavin) Grandberry; friend, Andrew Sr. and a host of other family and friends.