Stuart E. Whitney

I met Stuart at ReStart in 1985. I was homeless and hopeless. Stuart, through ReStart, gave me a home, hope and so much more. Stuart just didn't talk about what the Bible said, he lived it. He reached out to the same people Jesus did and showed us that we, too, could rise and walk in the light of God's love. Stuart's caring, compassion, and encouragement touched not just my life, but countless others. He was truly an incredible man. Susan, my prayers are with you.

While executive director of reStart, he was a valued member of Heart of America United Way's Speaker's Bureau. I appreciated his sincerety--as did countless audiences who asked for him as a speaker--as they considered their financial support for our community. Personally, I admired him for his commitment to his ministry, especially because it took him on a lonely path. He will be greatly missed.

I want to extend my deepest sympathy to you and the family. Even though we havent met, Stuart's father A.T. and my grandfather Luther were brothers. Sorry that we were unable to attend the services

Dearest Susan,
How impossible to convey all that one wishes could be said about Stuart's life and death and its impact on you and the family. Stu and I go back to seminary days, as you know. He was a friend and a wise colleague. I admired him them and even more so given the richness of his ministry over the years. God's blessings and love for you and your family. Jim

Stuart was one of my heros! He was a man's man, capable of being as tough as was necessary to serve his vast congregation, yet did so with the heart of an angel!I was so thankful to have known and loved him. Susan you both have constituted a fantastic couple and witnessed to a great love, to the capacity to be true to your individual values and faith,and to so many other inspiring beliefs,actions, and genuine love for those you have worked with and served. I have known you for so many...

What a blessing Stuart has been to our bi-state community! He saw one community able, when willing, to unite across all lines: racial, economic, geographic, and social. May his values and commitment to humanity, equality, and opportunity continue to influence our Kansas City area.
I, and so many others like me, miss Stuart's kindness, honesty, and clear insights. It was a joy and privilege to have worked with him on Project Equality.

Stuart was the Minister, along with Rev. Harold Thomas when my family and I started worshipping at Linwood United back in the 70's. He was an extradionary man then and that is how he finished. I saw him just a year or so ago and he remembered me. My prayers are with you,his entire family at this time of sorrow. Wilma, Rolanda & Natasha

Stuart embodied so much of what I know as service for the greater good. I feel Kansas City became a greater place to live because Stuart made things happen. He walks tall in my memory and will be sorely missed.

Stuart was quite an inspiration to us. We feel very privileged to have known him, as well as you, Susan. We are praying for you and your family at this time. With love, Andy and Sarah Wimberley and children.