James Whittington

(From Clark Funeral Home)

James Edward Whittington, of Neosho, Missouri, passed away on April 19, 2025. He was born on January 13, 1942, in Wheaton, Missouri, to the late Ray Earl and Eileen (Brewer) Whittington.

James was a proud graduate of Rocky Comfort High School, class of 1959. He worked for many years in the receiving department at La-Z-Boy in Neosho, Missouri, before retiring and continuing his service to the community as a security officer at Crowder College.

On February 5, he married the love of his life, Shirley Joann (Cox), and together they built a life filled with love, faith, and family. A devoted member of Community Chapel Church in Neosho, James lived his faith through his actions and generosity.

James had a deep love for the land and spent countless hours tending to his cattle and putting out a garden every year. He found joy in the simple things—mowing his yard and even those of his neighbors, just to lend a helping hand. Above all, he cherished watching his grandchildren play sports, always showing up with pride and encouragement.

He is survived by his loving wife, Shirley; his children: Kevin Whittington of Neosho, Missouri, Kimberly (Cecil) Musgrave of Neosho, Missouri, Kristie Putnam of Joplin, Missouri, Shelia (Bob) Bishop of Neosho, Missouri, Mona McGee of Neosho, Missouri, Raymond (Kelly) Ethridge of Neosho, Missouri, and Chester (Brenda) Ethridge of Anderson, Missouri; and by his siblings: Rayleen Weems of Joplin, Missouri, Shirley (Don) Bilyeu of Sparta, Missouri, Lena Young of Joplin, Missouri, Linda Jones of Joplin, Missouri, Shelia (Gene) Robinson of Wheaton, Missouri, Cindy (Lloyd) Blankenship of Neosho, Missouri, and Marvin Whittington of Neosho, Missouri. Also surviving are numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents, and a son, Eddie Whittington.

Visitation will be held at Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., also at the Chapel of Memories.

His legacy of kindness, dedication, and faith lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed.