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Harry Whittington Obituary
Knoxville, TN
Harry Lee Whittington, age 86, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 10, 2015. Harry was born March 13, 1929. Mr. Whittington was a veteran of the United States Army. He most recently served as a volunteer wedding officiant at Knox County Courthouse. He was a professional photographer and taught photography at Fulton High School for many years. Mr. Whittington was the former host of the Harry Whittington Show on WATE 6 and served as master of ceremonies for many gospel singings in the greater Knoxville area, as well as host of the Popeye Show for kids where he was known as Captain Harry.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Edna Whittington. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Melvin and Lili Whittington (Knoxville); and grandchildren, Melinda Whittington (Charlotte, NC),Lindsey Whittington (Jacksonville, FL), and Blake Whittington (Cleveland, TN). Harry has two surviving sisters, Joyce and Naomi, both of (Nashville, TN).
The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm until 7:30 pm Monday, December 14, 2015 at Dutch Valley Church of God. Funeral services will follow at 7:30 pm with Rev. Melvin Whittington and Pastor Tony McAfee officiating. Family and friends will meet at 10:45 am Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at Highland Memorial Cemetery for an 11:00 am graveside service with Full Military Honors conducted by the East Tennessee Veterans Honor Guard. Online obituary may be viewed and condolences extended at www.rosemortuary.com. Arrangements by Rose Mortuary Broadway Chapel.
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Memories and Condolences
for Harry Whittington
Jen Clotfelter
December 7, 2019
Mr. Whittington officiated my marriage at the Knox Co courthouse in 2012. We adored him, and I could not have asked for a more perfect person to share that moment with. In fact, we had an actual ceremony in 2013, and he came back and officiated that as well. He spoke so lovingly of his little lady and prayed with us and laughed with us. I am grateful for my small connection to him-brief, but so meaningful and beautiful and bettering.
December 22, 2018
May God bless you.
A c. and Gena Crowe King
April 28, 2017
Mr Whittington was first my photo teacher and my photograher at my wedding 40 yrs ago in 1977.He lived the way one should.Hope I can make that kind of example to others...See you in Heaven Friend..
March 1, 2007
April 27, 2017
I found a card he had sent us after my husband and I were married and hurried to look him up online. We were sad to see he had passed. The card he sent us was so sweet! We sent him a few Christmas cards. When we decided to get married, we didn't want anything fancy so we went to the Justice of the Peace and after the ceremony, he took our picture for us. To us there were four people there that day - God, Harry and my husband and I. We are so thankful. God be with his family.
Jess Weltner
May 29, 2016
I just heard the news today. Mr. and Mrs. Whittington were regular customers of mine at Shoney's in the late 90's. They were an amazing couple and I am thankful I had the chance to get to know them. He photographed my wedding in 1999 and I will never forget how lovingly he spoke about his wife.
In the past few years I would run into him from time to time, usually I was photographing a wedding and he was officiating one. He always offered a kind hug and reminded my husband to cherish every single day we have together. My world is a better place for knowing him, and I'll miss our encounters. Praying for his family.
Leslie Kennedy
December 28, 2015
I will miss you Harry. You were a great man.You were my friend
Ann Russell
December 17, 2015
Harry was a wonderful colleague and friend for many years at Fulton. We were next door neighbors before the renovation. He will be missed .
April Haworth
December 16, 2015
So sorry to hear of your loss. He married me and my husband on Valentines Day. He was so sweet and kind. May God be with you at this time.
Julie Jackson Stringfield
December 15, 2015
Harry was always such a kind and encouraging person. I knew him when I was at Fulton (Class of '75). He knew I was on a tight budget and gave me a beautiful wedding album at a tremendous discount. Ran into him at the courthouse many years later and he still remembered me. He was a wonderful teacher and friend.
Curtis Holbert
December 15, 2015
My condolences to the family of my friend and co-worker at WATE Channel 6. He was a kind and caring person. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.
Jessica Greenlee
December 15, 2015
Sorry to hear about your loss. He was a customer of mine when I worked at Carrabbas. I always enjoyed his company....He will be missed.
Melissa Williams-Brown
December 14, 2015
I remember Mr. Whittington from Fulton High School (class of 84). He always had a smile and a upbeat tempo! Rest in peace.
Lana Hughes
December 14, 2015
Harry, You've been a wonderful friend. I'll miss you. I'm so happy you and Edna are finally together again in the home Jesus prepared for you. God used you both in so many ways. Thank you
Beverly Buster Clemmer
December 14, 2015
Harry meant so much to me and to so many others. I know he is rejoicing, dancing, and singing with those who have gone before in heaven. I'm sorry I can't be there in person, but I am praying for you, Melvin, and your family.
missy Waddell
December 14, 2015
My thoughts and prayers
Jamie & Travis Roberts
December 14, 2015
Sad news to hear...such a sweet and kind soul...he married my husband and I on October 20, 2007 at the Country Jewell. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his loved ones. May God Bless you all and give you comfort at this most difficult time.
Steve Ellis
December 14, 2015
Harry was a great teacher and friend while I was a student at Fulton (class of '83). His influence led me to go on to a career in photography. His kind spirit was such a wonderful example to all of us. He will be missed!
Vickie McMahan Clabough Class of '81
December 14, 2015
Mr.Whittington was an awesome person. I don't know that theres words to describe him. I had him as a photography teacher. I will never forget,he would walk up to you and just start yelling then laugh himself. Thanks for all the memories "CHIEF".
December 14, 2015
I will keep your sweet family in my prayers. I had the privilage of knowing your dad.I saw him most everyday for many years. I loved him so very dearly. Your family was blessed to have such a Godly man who knew no strangers and always willing to listen. Mr. Harry is happy now and forever more any who knew him here knew he was straight from heaven. He was just called home. Love and Prayers!!!! Jo Ann
Brenda & Darrell McFarland
December 14, 2015
So sorry to hear of Harry's passing. He was a wonderful,kind man. May God give you peace and comfort in the coming days.
April Wines
December 14, 2015
Never have I met anyone quite like Harry. He showed me kindness like I had never known before. No doubt about it he is back in the arms of his beloved Edna dancing on streets of gold. He certainly made his mark on this world!
Kathy Bunch
December 14, 2015
I have ran into Chief several times over the years and we always shared stories and memories of Fulton. He so loved his precious Edna and I am so glad that they are together again. I know the heavens rejoiced. As I look at the tributes to Chief on this site, I hope this will bring comfort to his family. Please know that he was loved by so many. I will see you again. Thanks for the memories.
Missi Mcmurray
December 14, 2015
Amazing Godly man, husband, friend, minister, coworker I can't say enough about him. God has true recieved an angel. I love you Mr Whittington and you will true my be missed by many.
Debra Agnew and Family
December 14, 2015
Mr. Whittlington (& Co.), beautifully, photographed and catered my wedding in 1975. He was a very joyful and nice person. God bless this family.
Chris and Erica Nichols
December 14, 2015
I'm so sorry for your loss. I met both your father and your mother in 2000 when he did our beautiful wedding photos and we adored them both instantly. My husband and I ran into Mr. and Mrs. Whittington several times thereafter and were always greeted with the warmest of smiles. His love for his wife and family was well known by all who knew him and I know he will be terribly missed. Prayers for your sweet family during this difficult time.
kelly garling
December 13, 2015
you were one of the teacher's I ever had. you will be missed by all.
Daryl and Jan Turner
December 13, 2015
So sorry for your loss. Your dad did our wedding pictures and your mom catered our wedding in 1986. I have known them since I was born. My mother grew up with them. He will be missed just like your mother.
Daryl and Jan (Monday) Turner
Janice Savage-Headrick
December 13, 2015
I first meet Mr.Whittington and his wife Edna as a child trick or treating many years ago (wedding cake..yum)
Later as a student at Fulton High School(brother was a student and close friend) where he taught photography he became a long time dear friend of the family thru the years..
Marrying my sister many years later marrying me and my husband..
Always smiling and joking around a true man of god..he will be missed .. forever rejoicing in heaven..Thoughts and prayers to the family..
Angela Washington
December 13, 2015
My Harry!! I've never seen this man not smiling, laughing, or even upset. Very carrying and loving. Loved by so many especially me. I am deeply sadden but yet rejoicing with him. You are deeply missed.
**Melvin you and the family are in my thoughts and prayers.**
Tamera Causey
December 13, 2015
Harry Whittington Married John and I and he will be missed
Roy and Pam Braden
December 13, 2015
Mr. Whittington did the pictures for our wedding in 1981. Edna did the catering. Such sweet people. He always talked and laughed when we saw him. Always a big smile for everyone. The world is a darker place without your sweet spirit.
December 13, 2015
Thoughts and prayers to the family and I will never forget this young man as a fellow teacher at Fulton. Mr Whittington you will surely be missed
Juanelle Oliver
December 13, 2015
We will miss you, Uncle Harry. Your sweet spirit, your lively wit (you and Aunt Jewel together were priceless), and your example of hard work and determination were a light to the rest of us.
Tracie and Glenn Brogden
December 13, 2015
Mr Whittington was a very nice man, he married my husband and I in 2011. He will be missed.
Laura Miller
December 13, 2015
Dear Whittington Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies. Not only did Mr.Whittington photogragh my first Wedding,but by chance many years later he officiated at my second. I didnt realized it at the time,but I did write him a note later and he sent me such a kind sweet response. I know how much he loved his wife and now they are reunited.
Vicki Nelson
December 13, 2015
Harry will be missed by many. He was a wonderful person, so sweet and thoughtful. He married my grandson and his wife and my husband and myself.He is happy now with his wife. He missed her so! Prayers for his family!
Abbie Tapp-Pearson
December 13, 2015
This wonderful man married my husband and me! He was full of love. He was a role model for all! His family is in my thoughts.
Carmen Servance
December 13, 2015
My prayers and deepest sympathy goes out to the family of Mr. Whittington. He was such a genuine and witty person. I was in his class in the 80's and he sold me my very first car that I paid for on my own. I kept that car for 11 yrs. I love reading all the comments of his great works from his family and friends. He will be missed greatly. Rest In Heaven Mr. Whittington.
Charles Crawford
December 13, 2015
What a great man. I learned so much from him
Stephanie
December 12, 2015
Our prayers for the Whittington Family are with you for comfort and peace. Mr. Whittington married my husband and I at the courthouse before my husband left for the Army. He was a wonderful man and gave me a sweet memory of the day I was married. Thank you Mr. Whittington, may you rejoice with your wife in heaven!
Joe Wagner
December 12, 2015
Such a dear loving man of God. He married my wife and I on June 24, 2013.
aundrea Blair
December 12, 2015
Rip
Brenda Owen
December 12, 2015
My prayers for the family. He was the sweetest man. He married my son and daughter in law.
Chris Newby
December 12, 2015
My deepest condolences to family and friends. He was a great man and loved by so many. He will be missed.
Rick, Tammie and Sarah Welton
December 12, 2015
Melvin and family, I was deeply saddened to read about your father's passing. He was good friends with my parents. He also officiated when my husband and I remarried. He was a wonderful man and friend. We thought a lot of him. Our thoughts, prayers and love go to you and the family. We will miss him.
1860's Confederate ambrotype. If not for Harry I would not have the love for photography that I now have. I specialize in rare historical images .
Carl Sloan
December 12, 2015
What a magnificent man ! I am one that remember him at Fulton in photography class. He photographed our wedding as well. Harry is a man of such spiritual purity that never ceased. A mentor to hundreds. He inspired me so much that I work with photography today because of him and think of him as one of the best in teaching others. I loved his old Cord car it was a marvel to behold, fancy as can be but Harry was always very humble. Let his life be a perpetual example of how a man should be. Miss you my friend - Carl
Bryon Cindy Hopper
December 12, 2015
Dear Pastor WHITTING & fmily
Please accept our deepest sympathy of the loss of your father. May he watch over and keep your family safe with the Lord by his side.
Detria Maples
December 12, 2015
RIP prayers to all
rodney ross
December 12, 2015
Remember riding motorcycles with him and melvin and friends, very sweet man. Praying for family
Patricia & Ray Lenoir
December 12, 2015
I'm so sorry for the loss of your dad Melvin . I enjoyed seeing his face light up when I came the foyer of our church. I always went over & asked him how he was & told him we loved him. The last Sunday I saw him he asked me to keep praying for him. I will really miss him but how can I keep from being happy for him. He got the Ultimate Christmas Gift ! I look forward to seeing him again. GOD bless you & your family ! We love you !
December 12, 2015
We loved him. From 8th Avenue, my marriage, my parents funerals, his smile, his voice, his music ministry. What an incredible man God made there, and what an amazing celebration in Heaven happening now. Love you Melvin, Stacy and Anaka Conley
Patti Fowler- Scarborough
December 12, 2015
Melvin,
I am so sorry for you and your families loss! Your father has touched the lives of so many people in different areas during his life! He was a true man of God and that showed in everything he did! I will never forget him leading the choir at 8th Avenue, and I know now he is singing in a heavenly choir, with a joy like no other!
Chuck Patterson
December 12, 2015
Chief was one of the coolest teachers @ Fulton. Not only did I learn the skills of Photography,but, also that Dunkin Donuts tasted pretty good mid afternoons..HA..He was a Great man and I am glad to have known him. Photography class 1975-1978
Michael and Cora Johnson
December 12, 2015
We are so sorry for the loss of Mr Whittington. He married us over 5 years ago and from just interacting with him in that short meeting, we could tell he was a very special man.
Linda Jernigan Floyd
December 12, 2015
Deepest condolences to the family.
Tracy Chain
December 12, 2015
Mr. Whittington gave us the most special wedding just over three years ago. What a special man. Godspeed and sincere condolences to the family. He blessed so many. Even a brief meeting gave glimpse of a truly special soul.
Cathi Smith-Jones
December 12, 2015
I've known Harry all my life. He was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. Godspeed my friend.
Randy Miller
December 12, 2015
Harry was a great man. As a kid, I first got to know him from his attendance at various gospel music concerts and his appearances on The Mull's Singing Convention. He later married my wife and I. He will be missed.
Jeanie Hammock - Galyon
December 12, 2015
Harry was one of my favorite teachers at Fulton. He was like a 2nd father to me and it was a pleasure to work with him with his business. Praying for the family and friends of this sweet man. R.I.P. Harry. You will be missed!
Jerry and Tracy Parrott
December 12, 2015
Mr. Whittington was a special special man. He married my husband and I at the court house 7 years ago. He gave us some wonderful advise about how to make a strong marriage. He shared beautiful stories of him and his wife, that he loved so dearly. He wrote us a beautiful letter after the ceremony and I always carry it in my bible. He touched so many lives. We are so sorry for your loss. He is now rejoicing with the Lord on the streets of gold.
Jamie Wilson
December 12, 2015
Mr. Whittington was my teacher and friend. He was a kind man that loved all people. I am thankful for his friendship.
Kathie and Dennis Bowman
December 12, 2015
So sorry to hear about Harry. Both He and Your Mom did our wedding 36 years ago and we loved them both!!!!!! Just know of the homecoming he received... Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you..
Lisa Collins
December 12, 2015
Mr Whittington married my husband and I at the justice of the peace 5 years ago still remember the beautiful words he said over us. God bless the family i know he will be missed!
Carol Howard
December 12, 2015
I cannot remember when I didn't know Harry but my first memory of him was him picking me up to stand me on a chair to sing into the mike at church. I thought the world of Harry. He was a wonderful example of the love of Christ, a special friend and very respected by all who knew him. I can't wait to see him in heaven, maybe leading an angel choir in "When we all are in heaven".
God bless the family during this time of loss.
Carol Johnson Howard, High Point NC
Melinda Ivester Smith
December 12, 2015
I was a student of Mr. Whittington's a long time ago. He was my favorite teacher ever. I came across him several times over the last few years and he seemed to never change.. always the same "Chief" I remembered as a teenager.
Donna Wise Chandler
December 12, 2015
An extraordinary man beyond measure. An exceptional teacher and someone I'm proud to call my friend. Someone with a heart so giving like nothing can compare . That gave of himself not asking for anything in return, but to learn and make something of yourself . A special appreciation for caring about me personally in seeing that I graduated a year early and making it happen. For this I am truly grateful . You went above and beyond the duties of being a teacher ( married my husband and I in your back yard, Precious Edna made me a cake) something I will cherish forever. We lost and Angel I will always love you !!
Donna Wise Chandler
December 12, 2015
An extraordinary man beyond measure. An exceptional teacher and someone I'm proud to call my friend. Someone with a heart so giving like nothing can compare . That gave of himself not asking for anything in return, but to learn and make something of yourself . A special appreciation for caring about me personally in seeing that I graduated a year early and making it happen. For this I am truly grateful . You went above and beyond the duties of being a teacher ( married my husband and I in your back yard, Precious Edna made me a cake) something I will cherish forever. We lost and Angel I will always love you !!
Callie West
December 12, 2015
So sorry for your loss of the family but without a doubt a wonderful gain to the Kingdom of Heaven. Mr. Wittington was a sweet, loving,and kind man- truly a wonderful man of God. He married my husband and I over 10 years ago and he will always and forever be in our hearts. We were truly blessed to have him share in our "special day" (as he so sweetly called it).
Susan Henry
December 12, 2015
I had the pleasure of getting to know Mr. Whittington while working at City Court. He was a kind and gentle soul who will be missed.
Joe Fritts
December 12, 2015
Mr Whittington was a good and decent man he was always fun to be around in school and the Fulton family will remember you always and you were a friend of our family for many years as well . Rest in peace Chief
Kathy Russell-Scott
December 12, 2015
Harry Whittington, Will be miss by all who knew him.Had him as a Teacher,and friend.Will miss his smile.Thoughts and Prayers To The Family.
Gena Crowe King & Ac King
December 12, 2015
Mr Whittenington did our Wedding photos..I took his class..Learned a lot about photography...Edna was a very Lucky woman to have him 60 yrs..Fond Memories ....
Velta Lane
December 12, 2015
If A picture is worth a thousand words.
With his photography class at Fulton High School, and his professional Life he had multiple billions of words.
My condolences to the family, all his friends and students lives he touched. I'm a student of the master.
Thanks for the memories Harry!
Haley Rase
December 12, 2015
Harry was such an amazing man and I am so happy I had the chance to meet him. His weddings at the court house were always so sweet. One thing I will always remember about him is every time he would come in to marry people he would always tell me stories about his wife and all the things they used to do together.Just hearing those stories showed how much he loved and missed her. I am extremely sad that he has left us here on Earth but knowing that he has been reunited with the love of his life brings a smile to my face. I am keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers as you all go through this tough time. Just remember that Harry was such a special man and touched so many people's lives over the years. He was definitely one of a kind.
Bobbie Dillon Painter
December 12, 2015
Mr. Whittington was a lovely man, who touched many lives. His precious smile will be missed. Thoughts and prayers for his dear family.
David Venner
December 12, 2015
I remember Mr. Whittington well from my days at Fulton over thirty years ago. He was my homeroom teacher and I remember his great sense of humor more than anything. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends in your time of grief for this loss.
Donna Wise Chandler
December 12, 2015
An extraordinary man beyond measure, an exceptional teacher and friend . Throughout all my years after graduating ( thanks to him for his big heart in helping me graduate early) I will forever be grateful . He has touched the lives of so many and in so many special ways , I am certain he is singing with the angels and making them laugh. You'll forever be in my heart Chief . I love you .
Regina Drummer Cox
December 12, 2015
Melvin,
So sorry to hear of your dad's passing. Prayers for your family.
Angie and Nick Holsonback
December 12, 2015
Deepest sympathies for the loss of my beloved former photography teacher at Fulton. He was such a good, sweet man. He will be missed. R.I.P. CHIEF!!
Gary Edgemon
December 12, 2015
What a great man! He was an inspiration as a educator and friend
Vivian and John Warren
December 12, 2015
I remember Harry mostly for his love of music/singing and that great sense of humor, especially at church at the old 8th Avenue site in the 50's. Really fond memories of those years.
Ronnie Ridener
December 12, 2015
Melvin,
So sorry to hear about Harry's passing, he was a great man. Prayers for all.
Clay & Patti Wise
December 12, 2015
What a great mentor and friend,he was a great teacher and always could brighten anyone's day with his jokes and laughter,he preformed one of my daughters ceremony and also done the wedding pictures. There will never be another Harry God Bless Him...... We love you . Clay&Patti Wise
Amber Gassman
December 12, 2015
Mr. Whittington was my home room and photography teacher. I learned a lot from him. I remember his kindness and great sense of humor. Prayers and blessings to your family.
Susan Lemons
December 12, 2015
Every time I saw MrWhittington he always gave me the brightest smile. Left me feeling really happy to have seen him that day. I am sorry for your family's loss.
Doug Corum
December 12, 2015
Melvin,
I have many good memories of your dad both as my teacher and my employer. He was a good man. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Foster D. Arnett, Jr.
December 12, 2015
What a wonderful and sweet soul. Rest well Harry.
December 12, 2015
Harry Whittington was one of the greatest men I have ever had the pleasure to know. He had an abundance of love in his heart that he shared with all who knew him. He was a wonderful friend who called to check on me even after I moved away. My heart is broken knowing he won't be here with us anymore. I know you are rejoicing to be with our Lord and your Edna. Look forward to seeing you in heaven Chief. All my love, Katie Acuff Belissary
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