Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
James Whitcome Obituary
Born in Albert Lea, Minnesota he was the son of the late Phillip and Louise Ann (Hockett) Whitcome.
Jim was raised in Northwood, Iowa, a town rich in Whitcome history, lifelong friends, and enduring memories. He graduated from Iowa State University in 1971, embarked upon his career first with General Growth Properties in Des Moines, Iowa and then with the Rouse Company in Columbia, Maryland. He sustained his senior position in Design and Construction by continuing in retail development for May Centers and The Mills Corp. in St. Louis, Missouri and then returning to Maryland with General Growth Properties. He gained due respect as a leader in the industry and leaves us to enjoy his many projects throughout the country. Road weary, he reluctantly retired in 2018.
Jim was a genuine friend, and a steady advisor to many - especially to his children. He was known for often entertaining family and friends with guitar and rich vocals as well as for his delight in attending his children's soccer games, football games, plays and musical concerts. He was beloved by each member of Karen's family who will miss him deeply. Fully embracing his decision to retire, Jim has enjoyed much more family time, reconnecting with friends, tending to his farm, traveling, golf, cribbage, puzzles and especially Pinochle with his new Hereford Senior Center pals. More recently, he was thoroughly enjoying the rewards of completing the restoration of a classic 1967 Pontiac Tempest Sprint.
Surviving, in addition to his wife Karen, are four children Sara Shaw, Tim Whitcome, Jenna Whitcome and Justin Whitcome; two grandchildren Brady and Madox Shaw; two sisters Karen, wife of Lyn Davis and Carole Butler. James is also survived by his former wife Betty Whitcome as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at the convenience of his family.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, 6 Herndon Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403 or online at www.cbf.org .
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Whitcome
Sponsored by The Baltimore Sun.
Joyce Quintavalle
August 20, 2024
Miss him playing cards at senior center
Benjamin L Luber
January 18, 2022
Jim was a great person who I met when worked at Centermark Properties in St. Louis. He then recurited me to work for him at the Mills Corp. in D. C. He gave the opportunity to be the best you could be. No one was better at encouraging people. He was kind and incitfull in the best of ways. I am sorry that he has gone.
Joyce Quintavalle
September 2, 2020
Enjoyed playing pinochle with Jim at Hereford Senior Center. Such a great guy and fun. Always went to play with Phil Kyte. Will miss him.
Brian Spencer
August 28, 2020
Jim was one of the good guys, always ready to jump in and help, giving of his knowledge and ideas and passionate about his world. It seems like only a few years ago, but it was 1982 when we first worked together, then a job became a friendship. Although we lost touch for a few years an opportunity to work together again 10 years ago gave us the chance to become close friends again. My heart aches for Karen and all his family and friends, I will miss him.
Barbi Jutila
August 26, 2020
Jim was a vital part of my career with The Mills Corporation...as he believed in me and saw beyond others doubts. I always thought of Jim as a gentle giant and loved preparing the way for him to attend The Mills Grand Openings! He was so proud of the work and dedication of the on site Teams! My condolences to Jim’s family and extended family.
Amy Murdock
August 26, 2020
On behalf of so many at CCI that worked with Jim, our thoughts and prayers to the family. Ed, Greg, Vic, Terry and I enjoyed working in the retail design and construction industry with Jim for countless years. The relationship we had through the projects stemmed beyond projects. May his soul rest in peace and may the Perpetual Light shine upon him! - Amy Murdock
Jim Kreps
August 26, 2020
I only got to work along side Jim for 6 or 7 years while at GGP. He challenged everyone, as well as enjoyed the challenge back (at least I thought so) from other generations. He was full of fun stories, past experiences and interesting opinions. He will truly be missed in this industry. My condolences to his family, he was too young in life to be taken this early.
Anne Lipscomb
August 25, 2020
I had the pleasure of working with Jim at The Mills Corp. He was a gentle spirit and kind man. To his family I extend my condolences , he was taken from you way to early.
Suzanne Ullsperger
August 25, 2020
To have live and love well, what better mark of a person? May loved ones find awe in the work of life that Jim created and bear witness to the parts that were shared. May peace rest upon All.
Elizabeth Weiner
August 25, 2020
He was a very unique person - best boss ever. He created an environment of respect and excellence. While done on a professional level, he taught me a great personal lesson about positive affirmations - never can I say, "Might", "Maybe", "I Guess", or the worst - "To Be Honest" without seeing him glare at me over his glasses. My heart goes out to his wife, children, and extended family.
Renee (Stone) and Richard Abell
August 25, 2020
Our hearts ache for Jim’s family. He will surely be missed. Thankfully, he had a great impact in his life and left many wonderful, loving memories to keep him close in your hearts.
Edward Bennett Vinson
August 25, 2020
Jim will be missed by all who had the benefit of having him in their lives. Mine, through our Mills careers, provided a sharing of knowledge and unlimited experience that Jim brought to the table each and every day. I had the benefit of traveling the world with Jim and attribute much of what I carry with me every day to him. Jim will be missed by all and myself.
Drew Hofmann
August 24, 2020
Jim was one of my favorite people. Loved our family golf trips and his dry humor. He taught me to be a better cribbage player and to enjoy playing dominoes on the computer. He loved his extended family and they loved him. Until we meet again..........
Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results
Make a Donation
in James Whitcome's name
Memorial Events
for James Whitcome
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Whitcome's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
