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Horace "Whitey" Lee Prevatte
1928 - 2023
BORN
1928
DIED
2023
FUNERAL HOME
1617 Market St.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Horace "Whitey" Prevatte Obituary
Horace Lee “Whitey” Prevatte passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, Sunday May 28th. He was born on July 1st, 1928, on the family farm in Bladen County, North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Betty Reese Prevatte, and daughter June Prevatte Porrazzo. Additionally, his parents, Livingston J. Prevatte and Addie Arnette Prevatte and siblings Charles, Connie, Mary Addie, Garland, Elbert and Lou Ellen also preceded him.
Whitey is survived by his children, Mike (Wanda); Sharon, and Brian (Jennifer). His “favorite” grandchildren include: Cortney Cook (Steve); Scott Prevatte (Allison); Meagan Bachmann (Brett); Keith Flick (Brittney); Tiffany Oaks (Brandon), and Madelyn Prevatte. He had 9 great-grandchildren: Lana, Ava, Emma, Willow, Caleb, Skylar, Henry, Reese, and Jasper. He was known to say that “he could never have enough friends” and “strangers were just friends he hadn’t met yet”. He will be remembered for his love of coffee and conversation, quick wit, and generosity.
At Clarkton High School, he garnered the nickname “CottonTop” from his white hair, but was dubbed “Whitey” during his Army service and it stuck. He and wife Betty started Whitey’s Restaurant in June 1954 and operated it until December 19th, 2010. Whitey’s Restaurant was known to support law enforcement whether it was through feeding officers during a hurricane or coffee “on the house” for any officer in uniform. Some long-time employees became like family and included: Linda Rogers (42 years), Liz Fancher (45 years), Phyllis Cox, Patsy McKoy, and Cora Chavis.
Whitey served with numerous civic organizations including: the Board of Directors for Cape Fear Hospital for 17 years, the North Carolina Battleship Commission for 9 years, The East Wilmington Rotary Club, a Master Mason, member of the Scottish Rite, and the American Legion. Whitey was a member of the Wilmington Committee of 100 and Winter Park Presbyterian Church. He sponsored numerous community activities including a Little League team at Supper Optimist for 27 years. He was a special deputy for New Hanover Sherriff’s department, having completed basic law enforcement training.
Whitey was instrumental in bringing the USS North Carolina to its berth in the Cape Fear River in 1961. He envisioned it as a symbol of patriotism for the state of NC as well as recognizing the opportunity to attract tourism to Wilmington.
The Prevatte family wishes to thank his caregivers for the excellent care and dedication to his well-being that he received during his last years. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to be made to the H.L (Whitey) and Betty Prevatte Endowed Scholarship for Hospitality Management at Cape Fear Community College or the June Prevatte Scholarship at Cape Fear Community College for CNA or nursing students, or the Memorial Fund at Winter Park Presbyterian Church.
A celebration of life will be held at Temple Baptist Church (1801 Market Street) on Friday June 2nd, 2023, at 2:00pm with visitation to follow.
Condolences may be shared with the family at www.andrewsmortuary.com
Memories and Condolences
for Horace "Whitey" Prevatte
61 Entries
Deborah Tracy
August 22, 2025
Deborah, and Butch Tracy enjoyed his presence at our table in Whitey's a few times while dining!
He was very hands on, making sure the customer lked happy!
We love you Whitey!
8/22/25
Wally Kimrey
May 23, 2025
one of the best friends i ever had
Ronald Padgett
July 16, 2023
He was a good man and will be missed.
Melodi Mullins (Nix)
July 4, 2023
Such a wonderful man. My dad served on the USS North Carolina. My family came each year for the weekend of activities and always stayed at the Al Berta and had meetings at Whiteys. The last time we attended my dad has passed and Whitey was so please to see my mom and I to stop by. I have such great memories with Whitey and eating at Whiteys. Thank you for all the great memories!..
Kim Sincox
June 5, 2023
Dear Brian and family, I am so very sorry to hear about the passing of your father, Whitey Prevatte. The generosity of hospitality of Whitey and his employees was legendary to the crew members of Battleship NORTH CAROLINA. I joined the Battleship staff in 1990 and visited the hotel many times over the years during the Battleship crew's reunions, where they proudly displayed Battleship Reunion signs in their hotel windows and held banquets in the facilities there. We have photos from before my time of them "hanging out" by the pool or standing by their decorated cars, ready to go on parade. His biggest cheerleader had to be Paul Wieser. We thank you, your father and his wonderful staff for the role they played in preserving the Ship and in welcoming her crew home year after year.
Lynne Shaw
June 2, 2023
Dear Brian and family, I'm sorry to hear about Whitey passing. I had breakfast at the restaurant many times, and can't think of a single time that Mr. Prevatte didn't come to our table to thank us for coming, or to share a joke. He truly didn't know a stranger, and his love of people, and friendliness made anyone feel welcome, and to look forward to the next visit to Whitey's.
I pass by the land where the restaurant sat often, and think about the business of his restaurant, and motel. He was a special man, and I know he will be missed by so many.
Rick Paxton
June 2, 2023
Wilmington has lost it's gem. Whitey was kind and welcoming to everyone and it was my honor to know him over the years. I have missed our breakfast conversations over the past several years but will always remember him as he was a true gentleman. Godspeed my friend!
Judy Bryant
June 2, 2023
My most sincere condolences go out to his family and friends, of which there were so very many. He was truly a legacy in Wilmington and will be sorely missed. He and I had many long conversations over the years and I will always cherish them dearly. Rest in peace my dear friend. Judy Bryant....
Marsha Harris
June 2, 2023
Dear Mike, Brian & Family: We are so sorry to learn of "Whiteys" passing. We loved him so much and shared many a laugh over the last 40 years. May Gods grace and mercy carry you thru this difficult time and the days ahead ! Gary & Marsha Harris, Mebane, NC
Barbara & Keith Pickett
June 2, 2023
So very sorry to hear of Whitey’s passing my husband has so many fond memories of being at Whitey’s with his grand dad and his Dad Prayers for peace and Comfort for the entire Prevatte family he was truly loved and a great person
Brett Bachmann
June 1, 2023
Horace “Whitey” Lee Prevatte
I am honored to have gotten to know and love Whitey over the last several years. His warm, open-hearted personality made him a friend to everyone he met, and when I married Meagan, Whitey made me feel like I’d always been a part of the family. I loved visiting with him and talking about his time in the Navy and his returaunt. Every time Meagan walked in, Whitey’s face lit up. The love and care he had for family, friends, and his community was something truly special. Meagan and I were blessed to hold our wedding at Whitey and Betty’s home in 2020 so that they could celebrate the day with us. More than that, being married in the home of two people who so dearly loved each other was a gift to both of us. I always admired how Whitey loved Betty, taking gentle care of her each and every day. I’ve never seen someone live out the vow to “love, honor, and cherish for better or for worse, in sickness and in health” more sweetly then Whitey . Watching him has always inspired me to be the very best man I can be for Meagan and Emma. We couldn’t be more grateful for the chance to love and be loved by Whitey. He was a gift - truly good, kind, and generous – the rare person you meet and walk away from inspired to be a better person. I will miss him deeply, but I’m thankful he and Betty are together, and I’ll honor his legacy by doing my best to love and care for people in the same way he did.
Rest well, Whitey
Ricky Simpson
June 1, 2023
What a wonder man and friend to so many people in the Wilmington area. He will missed and remember.
Wally Kimrey
May 31, 2023
As a NC State trooper station in Wilmington during the 1970's there very few mornings that I was not drinking coffee and laughing with Whitey and Linda. What great times you will missed my old friend.
Jane Rippy
May 31, 2023
I have wonderful memories of eating at Whitey’s as a child with my family . Whitey personally greeted us as if we were close friends . We watched him welcome folks into the restaurant as if we had been invited to his home to eat . I don’t recall every knowing anyone more genuinely friendly . My first hamburger and French fries were enjoyed at Whitey’s. He will be missed by all blessed to know him.
Vicki Orrell-Porter
May 31, 2023
I saw Whitey and his wife at Chris's Restaurant a while back. I knew he wouldn't remember me as a former waitress at his restaurant but decided to walk over and speak to them. No he didn't remember me, it had only been 50 some years ago, but they seemed to be happy I took the time to talk and to say hello. So glad I did.
Brad Bruestle
May 31, 2023
Whitey was one of the most genuine, kindest man that I ever had the privilege of knowing. His legacy shall certainly continue to be carried on through the Prevatte family. My wish is for the family to draw comfort in knowing that he is truly in a better place, drinking coffee with many of his buddies and more importantly, reunited with his beloved wife Betty and daughter June. My deepest condolences are extended to the family.
With sincere Affection and Love... Brad
Susan “Lynn” Moore (Parnell)
May 31, 2023
Whitey was the thread, in the very fabric of my familyHe is every memory I have of my family’s pastthe episodes of the best show everWhitey was the constant during every tragedy my family experienced, he was always therealways the one face in the crowd I knew would be thereLove to all that grieves this loss of a great and noble soul
Gary and Denise Reese
May 31, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful uncle. We will love you and miss you always.
Milton & Sylvia Dobbins
May 31, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family. Great Memories!
John Robich
May 31, 2023
I actually met Whitey when he came out to welcome us having breakfast in 1998 and again 1999 during the basketball Tournament of Jewels our older daughter played in. But many years later our younger daughter married grandson Keith, so we became part of Whitey's large family. Whitey was a very special man and a
wonderful story teller who made a lasting impression on me, for which I am forever grateful. Whitey and Betty will always be remembered in the Wilmington community among its most prized citizens. God be with you.
Maria Horrell
May 31, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Whitey was family to us growing up, Pop and him had such wonderful times and memories, my condolences to your family during this sad time. Laura Muno Albertini..
Laura Muno Albertini
May 31, 2023
He will be so missed,I wrote everything under the picture..
clyde adams Jr.
May 31, 2023
As a State Trooper my first duty station was New Hanover County. I was quick to visit and have coffee at Whitey's restaurant. What a great guy Whitey was, quick to have conversation and correct he never met a stranger, it was like he had know me for years. Prayers to the family and they should be very proud of the legacy Whitey leaves.
Deborah Mason
May 30, 2023
Extending my deepest and heartfelt sympathy to you and all the Prevatte family.
We’ve been friends for 40 years and raised our twins together. Allen worked for Whitey and thought the world of him.
I’m only a phone call away. ❤ love to you all.
Angela C.
May 30, 2023
We remember going to Whitey's restaurant almost every Saturday and seeing Whitey and his wife there working along with their outstanding long time employed waitresses too. It was more than a restaurant, it was a place to talk and have coffee/tea and you never felt rushed. They made us feel like family everytime we went and Whitey would walk over to chat with us. We would like the family to know what a special man Whitey was and he'll forever be remembered for his smile, friendliness, and hospitality.
God bless you all,
Conner Family- Castle Hayne, NC
Buck O’Shields
May 30, 2023
Whitey was a long time friend of mine and the O’Shields family. Never at a lost for words. Life changed in Wilmington when he closed shop but it was the right time for Whitey.
Janice Dukovic
May 30, 2023
Whitey was a kind and generous man. He treasured his family, friends and employees.
Joe Boyd
May 30, 2023
Deepest Condolences to the Family! He was such a wonderful person and I am so proud to have known him and his family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time and may Jesus bless you all with peace knowing that he is safe in Heaven. Love You All!❤
George Gaddy
May 30, 2023
Many good times just being a friend of Whiteys. Their were many tables, . Always was scary to ride in the Town car.
Patricia Elkins Matson
May 30, 2023
My sympathies go to the family. His loss will surely be felt deeply, by his relatives and many others, but I hope your cherished memories of him will ease this, with time.
Mary Burton Coombs
May 30, 2023
I have known Whitey for several years. My dad anf mom (clayton anf Frances Burton) were close friends for a very long time. I don't think I ever saw him wihout a big smile on his face. I know he will be missed. He was one of a kind that I had the honor of kno 9thwing. Sending hugs and prayers to all the famiy.
Brooks Huntley
May 30, 2023
You were always a true gentleman
It was an honor to know you
Susanna Boyles
May 30, 2023
Our thoughts are with all. We will truly miss him and cherish our thoughts of him. Margie King's family
Doris Riggs
May 30, 2023
My sincere sympathy to the family of Whitey. What great memories he has left for his family and friends.
Crystal Lee (Sponseller)
May 30, 2023
I will forever cherish the fond memories of good conversations, warm hugs, and friendly smiles that we shared. You will truly be missed. Thanks for being such a wonderful human being. Love always.
Brent Sponseller
May 30, 2023
So many memories... I grew up calling him Uncle Whitey. I always looked forward to seeing him, and will miss him dearly. My thoughts and prayers to the family always.
Donna Prestwood Pease
May 30, 2023
Whitey will be missed by so many. As a little girl my mother worked for Whitey waiting tables around 1958. She would take me in and sit me on the counter top. Whitey would come up with a big smile and offer me a treat. I recall him feeding us also. He was an icon in Wilmington. I’m sorry for the family’s loss.
Stephanie Bell
May 30, 2023
Many happy memories at the guest hall on holidays and at the restaurant. My parents would join me if they could saying the memories will always be a blessing. Thanks for all you did fir Wilmington.
Adrianne Smith
May 30, 2023
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Shain and Sandra Blackman
May 30, 2023
We would like to send our deepest sympathy to your entire family. We know that Whitey will truly be missed by all.
George and Cindy Smith
May 30, 2023
Knowing Whitey and his family was a true privilege. Spending time at the restaurant and helping coach his Supper Optimist little league team were special to me. Best wishes and condolences to his family at this time of celebrating the life of a very good man. He'll be missed.
Gene Page
May 30, 2023
Just a good man!! That defines who he was! What a legacy! I miss Whiteys' and especially him. Another precious part of our past is gone! To the Prevatte family, thanks for the memories! God bless you all.
Pat Bowker
May 30, 2023
Mike, Sharon, and Brian, I'm so sorry for the loss of your Dad. Prayers for you and your families.
C.D. Burton, Jr.
May 30, 2023
Whitey was truly a great man. He was a awesome friend to me, and my family. We will all miss him. My prayers are with his family.
Gloria Cliff
May 30, 2023
Whitey will be greatly missed by all that knew him. I never saw a frown on his face. He was a true "people person". A person we should pray to be like. Safe travels old friend.
Gail & Bobby Jackson
May 30, 2023
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. We loved, Whitey. Our whole family ate at "Whitey's" for years. He was great friends with my Mom. My mom told him I needed a job and he gave me job right out of high school as a hostess. He treated his staff with kindness and love. He was a truly a humble man of God. After the restaurant was closed he and your sweet Mom ate lunch at Kentucky Fried Chicken on Sundays, as we did and we enjoyed seeing them and their company. He was truly a visionary for Wilmington. He was a Shaker and Mover. God bless your family during this very difficult time.
Geroldene Evans
May 30, 2023
Lifting the Prevatte family in prayer and trusting God to hold you close in this time of loss.
Joseph and Sally Pace
May 30, 2023
A wonderful Wilmington resident that contributed in so many great ways to help make our city a wonderful and better place to live. May God shed his grace on this very fine family.
Rebecca Pardue
May 30, 2023
"Whitey" was my very first mentor. He kindly gave me my first job in 1968, I was 16. The foundation for my solid work ethic came from Whitey. He was a wonderful man and we all loved him.
Valarie & Calvin Rowell
May 30, 2023
Gave my husband his first “real” summer job at the restaurant,which he did for 3 summersHe developed real work ethic,bought his own school clothes and had a bank account as a teenager.
Barbara and Royce Byrd
May 30, 2023
Whitey was a treasure to know. I looked forward to his greetings on Sunday mornings at WPPC.
David Colwell
May 30, 2023
Mike, Sincerest condolences from your Pine Street neighbors, the Colwells.
Al & Joanne Schroetel
May 30, 2023
Mike & Brian. Your Dad was an amazing man who gave so much to our community, His kindness and generosity knew no bounds and so many people benefitted from it.
Annita Cliff
May 29, 2023
I use to work at Elberta back in the late 90’s. I remember Mr. Whitey always walked around the building everyday to get his exercise in. He was always so active and full of life. Good man and great family. My deepest condolences to the Prevatte Family.
Greg Lewis
May 29, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful person. Condolences the the Prevatte family...
Russ Fales
May 29, 2023
Whitey was a true Wilmingtonian who cared deeply for its citizens. He was generous to a fault and always a gracious host. As a member of the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, I frequently ate meals and drank coffee at the restaurant.especially during the various civil emergencies through which I had to work. Whitey will always occupy a large part of my heart! My condolences to the family.
Carolyn Buck
May 29, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Woody Bradshaw
May 29, 2023
One of a kind that will be missed by so many. Not only did he never meet a stranger he treated everyone the same. Just like Whitey was fond of saying, “come right on in, we have your reservation”, I’m sure Saint Peter standing by the pearly gates said the same. To the entire Prevatte family, I love you all!
Phyllis Sloan
May 29, 2023
Wilmington has lost a true Southern Gentleman.
RIP Whitey.
Vicki Hufham
May 29, 2023
Brian. Sorry of the loss of your Dad. He was wonderful man & he will missed everyone who knew him for his great love for all locals who came into his restaurant
Showing 1 - 61 of 61 results
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Memorial Events
for Horace "Whitey" Prevatte
Jun
2
Celebration of Life
2:00 p.m.
Temple Baptist Church
1801 Market Street, NC
Funeral services provided by:
Andrews Mortuary and Crematory - Market Street Chapel - Wilmington1617 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28401