James Whitaker

James M. Whitaker, 89, formerly of Portsmouth, OH, died Sunday, October 16, 2016, at the Ohio Veterans Home in Georgetown, OH. He was born June 2, 1927, in Decatur, GA, to the late James M. and Della Belle (Welch) Whitaker. On December 15, 1951, he married the former Betty Lou Blanton, who preceded him in death on April 19, 1972. Surviving are his sons and daughter-in-law James Larry (Lori) Whitaker, of Hilliard, Terry D. Whitaker, Columbus; daughter and son-in-law Sherri K. (Ronnie) Rutherford, Chillicothe; grandchildren, who were his pride and joy, Lindsey (Sam) Berrigan, Ashley (Chris) Nunn and Chelsea Whitaker, all of Hilliard; Cody, Chase and Clay Rutherford, all of Chillicothe; and his brother Sam (Mary Jean) Fields, Belfry, KY. James was a union iron worker for over 60 years. He also owned the former Crispie Creme Donut Shop in Lancaster with the help of his in-laws, the Renison family. He served his country in the US Navy during WWII. While in Portsmouth, he was a member of the Eagles and the American Legion. He like fishing, telling "fish stories," vegetable gardening and rooting for the Cincinnati Reds. A private memorial service will be held in his honor at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Haller Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either: Ohio Veterans Home, 2003 Veterans Blvd., Georgetown, OH 45121; or a veterans association of the donor's choice.
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