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BORN
1928
DIED
2020
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Hugh Whalum Obituary
Whalum, Hugh David Jr.
September 8, 1928 - December 25, 2019. Born September 8, 1928, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was a passionate musician, educator, husband, father of seven, grandfather (11), great-grandfather (15), brother, mentor, and friend.
"Peanuts," as he was affectionately known, possessed the rare mixture of intelligence, humility, and humor. Above all he was warm, cheerful, charitable and committed to music excellence - both instrumental and vocal.
For decades, Peanuts delighted audiences all over St. Louis and the United States with his musical performances, playing with greats such as Count Basie, Leontyne Price, Duke Ellington, and Nat "King" Cole. In 2014, Peanuts was inducted into the St. Louis Jazz Hall of Fame.
Veronica Freeland was the love of his life and cherished wife for nearly 70 years. To this union, seven children were born: David, Judy, Connie, Angela, Tony, Mary Beth, and Stephanie. He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Judith Ann; his brothers Wendell Phillips, Harold Jamison and Kenneth Twigg; and his dear uncle and friend, Attorney/Judge Henry Leon Twigg (St. Louis). He was a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraterity.
His dear sister, Rosemarie Whalum Pollard (Memphis), and a host of nephews, nieces, other relatives, and friends will cherish and remember ALL of the blessed times and events shared with our special and beloved "Peanuts."
Services: Visitation Friday 1/3 at Archway Memorial Chapel, 111 Taylor Road, Hazelwood, from 3-7p.m. Funeral Mass: Saturday 1/4 at St. Elizabeth Mother of John The Baptist, 4330 Shreve, St. Louis, MO 63115 at 11a.m.. Interment: Monday National Cemetery JB www.archwaychapel.com.
Memories and Condolences
for Hugh Whalum
5 Entries
Lloyd Klinedinst
January 19, 2020
I so regret we missed honoring Peanuts at any ceremonies. Bobbie Bollmann and I followed him for a long long time. I began when he was playing on The Debalievre Strip, through Gaslight, to several downtown and midtown venues. I surprised Bobbie on her 60th with Peanuts and his trio playing in our home - long live Peanuts!
January 3, 2020
We at the Gables of Brady Circle, who have the privilege of having Mrs. Veronica Whalum live with us are so sorry for the families' loss. I actually remember seeing Peanuts play in St. Louis when I parents took me to see him.
Much love and hope for the future
Kathy Treece
Sally Sherman/McGowan
January 2, 2020
Tears well in my eyes as I write this, think of you and all the years of friendship. Precious individual, precious voice that can make everything alright; and to hear your piano and sax (all 'Peanuts' ); our duets. You are going to be so missed, but I know I will see you again in Heaven. To 'Ronnie' dear sweet wife of Peanut's, and to the rest of his family, my sincerest sympathies. Love, Sally Sherman/ McGowan
January 1, 2020
My condolences to the family on the loss of your loved one. May the God of all comfort be with you during your time of sorrow. (Psalm 145:19)
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Holly and Greg Lanza
January 1, 2020
We were so sad to to hear of Peanuts' passing. We used to go to the Adam's Mark Hotel here in St. Louis to hear him. People would come from all over to dance to his music. We used to take our parents there every time they visited from Maine. Peanuts would always greet us as if he had known us all his life He made everyone feel special, posed for pictures with us, autographed his CDs with very personal messages. He truly was a very special person and a St. Louis institution. He will be sorely missed. Sincerely, Holly and Greg Lanza
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