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BORN
1931
DIED
2014
Troy Whitehurst Obituary
Whitehurst, Jr., born Jan. 27, 1931, in Beaumont, TX, to Troy N. Whitehurst, Sr., and Frances Carroll Whitehurst, died July 16, 2014, at his home in League City, TX. Survived by his wife of 40 years, Cecilia Fogg Whitehurst; sister, Carol Whitehurst Holland and husband Langston, of St. Petersburg, FL.; children: Karen Robinson and husband Steve, of Liberty Hill, TX.; Charlotte Daniel and husband Houston, of Liberty, TX.; Carol Ewing and husband Mike, of Durango, CO.; Troy N. Whitehurst, III, and wife Sherri, of Katy, TX; stepchildren: Joseph Chojnacki and wife Iris Villareal, of Bryan, TX., Andrew Chojnacki and fiancée Lucia Hodgson, of Austin and College Station, TX; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Troy graduated from Texas A&M University in 1953 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He was in the Corps of Cadets and earned a commission in the U.S. Air Force. This was followed by a 40-year career in the aerospace industry, including 30 years in support of NASA, first for General Electric then Boeing, at the Johnson Space Center in the Houston Clear Lake area. He was especially proud of his work on the Skylab, Apollo and Space Shuttle programs. He also had 44+ years active membership in the Friends of Bill W. Raised in the Methodist Church, since 1953 he was a confirmed Episcopalian. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sept. 20, 2014, at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 4613 Highway 3, Dickinson, TX 77539
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Memories and Condolences
for Troy Whitehurst
Sponsored by Carol Holland.
Carol Holland
July 25, 2020
Wow! So many memories of my brother. The most important was how he got his life together and became an inspiration to me and to all who knew him. Thank God for Bub.
Shauna Correia
September 18, 2014
I met Troy through Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Dickinson, a church he accredited to saving his life. It was through church that I would see him, reaching out to all he met with that wonderful light and sparkle in his eye. His hand always went out to everyone, and when he grasped yours it was with the love a long time friend, even if you had just met. Troy later sent to me a synopsis of his life, writing of how he ended up back at the church in a changed state of mind. And while I so enjoyed reading about this awesome man, the life he led and how the love of God empowered him, it was those small moments I will remember most; that grasp of my hand, the twinkle in his eye. Whenever I would ask him how he was doing, his response was always the same, "I am blessed". Well, Troy, I am blessed to have known you. Thank you for sharing with me some of your light.
Emily Ligon
September 1, 2014
Grandpa,
You always knew the right things to say. Whenever I needed a shoulder to cry on or a big bear hug, you always made sure I was taken care of. Thank you so much for being the best adopted aggie grandpa any girl could ask for. I love you so much and I am so blessed to have spent the time with you that I did. You will forever hold a spot in my heart! Love Always,
Emily Marie Ligon
Iris Villareal
September 1, 2014
Thank you, Troy, for your love for God and your compassion for others. You have taught me so much. Peace be with you always.
September 1, 2014
HEY TROY! HOW'S THE WEATHER UP THERE?
I IMAGINE IT'S GREAT;FOR FISHING, HUNTING,PICNICS OR WHATEVER FLOATS
YOUR BOAT!
I'M VERY PROUD TO HAVE HAD YOU AS MY
COUSIN! I AND MY WIFE CANNOT IMAGINE
THE NUMBER OF SOULS YOU HEALED AND SET
ON A MUCH BETTER PATH OF LIFE!
WE ARE MISSING YOU BIG GUY, BUT WILL SEE YOU LATER!
PEACE AND LOVE,
ED CARROLL,JR & LINDA FAYE CARROLL
MAry Ann Goodwin
September 1, 2014
Even though I knew Troy for only a short time, I can say with confidence that he has left God's footprints on many of our floors.
Mary Ann
September 1, 2014
Even though I knew Troy for only a short while, I can say with confidence that he leaves God's footprints on many floors.
Johnson AKA Jackbare Roberts
September 1, 2014
We Lo ve. You CC . I thank you and big Troy . I have this feeling I'm related to you . I hurt for you . And and sad you lost big big pappa And am grateful to have spent time with you both my hart hurt if you need me I'm hère . Signed The Bear. I love you CC please plant a very speacal tree he was a great Tree . Lov jackamo
GPT surprises Zach at Aggie Ring Day
Sherri Whitehurst
August 30, 2014
Tim,Sandi,Casey,Kylee & Gus Waters
August 29, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends that Troy has left behind. He will be missed but we know we will see him again. We were so blessed by knowing him and are grateful that God put him in our lives and he and Cissy became part of our family. Cissy, we are so sorry for your loss but we know there was a celebration when he graduated into the arms of Jesus. Love you.
Troy & Sherri Whitehurst
August 29, 2014
We are heartbroken at the loss of the man we called Dad, Troy Jr. and GrandPa Troy (GPT). There is a void in our hearts that will forever be unfilled. We hold on to the memories and will cherish the time we got to spend with him, always joining us for the Holidays and bringing his delicious smoke turkey ... He was generous in many ways, taking time for others and always remembering everyone's birthday with his homemade cards and attending special family events like surprising Zach at his Aggie ring day.
Cissy we Thank You for loving him and we Love You ... He always had a smile for us and it comforts us to know he is still smiling, now down on us as Heaven has another Angel ... We will miss you Dad, Troy Jr., GPT.
Love,
Troy III, Sherri, Zach & Matt
Cissy, Troy, and Catherine R
Christine Villere
August 29, 2014
Grandpa Troy, me, Keith, and Connie Bovier
Christine Villere
August 29, 2014
Troy and Cissy
Christine Villere
August 29, 2014
Grandpa Troy & I laughing
Christine Villere
August 29, 2014
Grandpa Troy and I
Christine Villere
August 29, 2014
Grandpa Troy blessed by God's light
Christine Villere
August 29, 2014
Grandpa Troy serving Eucharist to Keith & I
Christine Villere
August 29, 2014
Grandpa Troy in Gods Light
Christine Villere and Keith B
August 29, 2014
I am truly privileged for my life being forever changed when God 1st gave me Troy as a neighbor, then adopted Grandpa 11+ years ago, and then as Mentor in my Recovery for over a decade. And I am only one of many he has mentored. Because of Troy's example of marriage, and living life, it was a special gift to Keith and I, and our marriage, that he both served Eucharist and as Grandfather of the Bride at our wedding.
I admire the love shared between he and Cissy. To me, it is a living testimony, not only of a God-assigned Sacrament of Marriage, but most of all for the opportunity of 360 degree life changes brought about by the fearless soul searching initiated by Recovery- a profound example and asset to our own new marriage.
Grandpa Troy led by example in 'getting out of God's way', as he said, letting God's infinite “light shine down on Cissy” and his marriage ... Keith & I were also both truly blessed to witness the renewing of their marriage vows of many decades of love, commitment, and honor.
There were many times I wanted to give up during my own dark nights of the soul, had I not been warmly welcomed when appearing on his doorstep. He was always happy to see me.…to be given a huge grandpa's hug at St. Paul's, or have his undivided attention over lunch. Most of all, he lived Recovery all 45+ years and the best part was that he didn't pretend to be “perfect” and that example helps free me to also be humbly human and still be loved.
I never had a real blood-relative Grandpa. I never met my blood grandpa who had a heart attack when my mom was 16. I had a step-Grandpa who died never knowing sobriety. So point being, Troy has been my Grandpa. Every girl needs a Grandpa. There is no substitution. From 11+ years ago when my Lab, Sara, and I met him as he tended his hibiscus... there have been too many hugely ironic coincidences where God used Grandpa Troy in my life...too many to be accidents... God's spiritual family assignments are like no other.
He printed on the back of many of his homemade cards, a proverb that is so appropriate for his life:
"Look to this moment, for it is life, the very life of life.
In its brief course lie all the realities and varieties of existence, the bliss of growth, the splendor of action, the glory of power.
For yesterday is but a dream, and tomorrow is only a vision,
but this moment, well lived, makes every yesterday a dream of happiness
and every tomorrow a vision of hope.
Look well, therefore, to this moment.
Sanskrit proverb (modified)."
And also, from the copy he brought me very early in Recovery (p.124/quoted in Daily Reflections):
Lighting The Dark Past
“Cling to the thought that, in God's hands, the dark past is the greatest possession you have- the key to life and happiness for others. With it you can avert misery and death for them.......No longer is my past an autobiography; it is a reference book to be taken down, opened and shared. ….All my past will this day be a part of me, because it is the key, not the lock.”
You are forever part of my heart's reference book. I love you Grandpa Troy,
Your Granddaughter,
August 28, 2014
I met Troy in March of 2001. I was at my lowest point in life. My marriage was about to fall apart. Kathy and I were married for 24 years at the time. I didn't know what to do. He became my sponsor for the next 7 years. He shared much about himself which put me at ease to do the same with him. He taught me many moral principles, and how to live life on life's terms. Kathy and I are now still together after 36 years. We will always remember him. I am truly grateful to have him be part of my life.
Joe Sturm, Laporte, Texas
Christy Vail
August 28, 2014
What a wonderful and gifted man..... He saved many a life and was a such a blessing to the Episcopal church.... He will be sadly missed because he helped so many people. God bless you Troy.....
August 27, 2014
Thinking of everyone, Troy will be missed!
Ray Roberson
Joe U 9/10/85
August 27, 2014
Troy is one of the men I met while I "trudged the road of happy destiny". I'm glad I followed in his foot steps. I'll be seeing you again Troy.
Forrest Lumpkin
August 26, 2014
Troy was a great man and an inspiration to me. He will be missed. Until we meet again.
Oscar Huerta Jr.
August 25, 2014
What can I say about Troy that has not been said? He was a humble, charismatic unforgettable guy. Troy and Cissy have been a very important part in my life and I was deeply saddened to hear about his passing.
However, I rejoice of having meeting Troy, and I thank and pray God that such a guy lived.
Don Schmidt
August 25, 2014
I knew Troy for 17 years. He was my grandsponser. When I needed help to carry the message he did not hesitate to respond. I learned so much from him through his words and more importantly by his actions. My life has been made much richer by knowing him and having him as a friend.
Debra radomski
August 24, 2014
I'm sorry to hear that Troy has passed. But I do know he is with his Lord. His service to his family, church and friends will be missed.
Robert and Suzette Pruit
August 23, 2014
When we came to St. Paul's Episcopal Church in early 1998, Troy was the first person to greet us at the fellowship hour. As people who know Troy can guess, that welcome came with pieces of Troy's personal story. I hasten to add that this quality of transparency was one we welcomed, for it provided a connection that confirmed we were in the right place.
We heard Troy's story many times during the years the Whitehursts and the Pruits were at St. Paul's, and we were privileged to tell ours as well. Troy's compassion, willingness to listen, and his courage to give guidance gave us the boldness to share. Our spiritual journey has been so much easier with fellow travelers like Troy along the way.
Eventually, as the Whitehursts and the Pruits moved on to different parishes, we continued to touch base with each other through phone calls, emails, and the occasional funeral. He and I (Suzette) always complimented each other when a Letter to the Editor was published in the Houston Chronicle. As he shared his joy in his new church and new home, we rejoiced with him. We also rejoiced at the love and companionship Troy and Cissy had for each other. Troy had a life that was blessed by God.
We are saddened that he is no longer a phone call away. We are grieving that loss, and we are praying for God's comfort for his family and for all who loved him. We count ourselves blessed to have had Troy in our lives.
Karen Robinson
August 22, 2014
Dad found much strength, comfort, and salvation in his many church and support group friends. As our Aunt Carol Holland reflected, he not only saved his life but that of others with his 12-step program and other spiritual work. For our step-mother, Cissy, you have lost the love of your life, for which I am truly sorry. You both grew in in ways that only you know and understand. Dad has concluded this life and his work on earth - his circle is complete. Rest in peace, dad.
Kathleen Yanni
August 22, 2014
I did not know Troy for a long time but I felt his kindness well and his prayers often. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Teri Learned
August 22, 2014
I haven't seen Troy since I was a kid due to living in another part of the country, but he stayed in touch with my dad who was his first cousin. When caring for my dad in his latter years, I started talking to Troy and I was absolutely blessed to hear his story and how he got through his addiction and how God made such a huge difference in his life. He really touched my heart like nobody else has! What a kind man, a bold man to be able to share his faith like he did, and as he got sick, through that faith, he had a healthy acceptance of his disease, knowing that he had hope in the heavens above.
August 21, 2014
Cissy, We've never met, but I feel like I know you. Troy spoke highly about you all the time. Troy was an inspiration to my own recovery. Troy will be missed by the Spiritual community here on earth!
Sincerely,
Rafael Martinez
Judie
August 21, 2014
Death is not extinguising the light;it is putting out the lamp because the dawn has come. Miss you friend, sharing your experience, strength & hope
Lawrence Clark
August 21, 2014
I had the pleasure of knowing Troy for just a few years. He left a lasting positive impression as a mentor and friend.
Teresa Antley
August 21, 2014
Troy was a support and inspiration to us all. When I read in church he would remind me before (and sometimes during) to speak loudly in the mike. His testimony and love will be remembered by us all. He is greatly missed! Love and God's blessings to Cissy and their families.
Carol Holland
August 17, 2014
What a fine example my brother set for those suffering from alcoholism and other addictions. By carrying the message to others, by sharing his experience, his strengths, his weaknesses, and his hope, he reinforced the spiritual principle of the 12th step. He not only saved his life, he also saved the lives of those he touched.
Ruth and Robert Stevens
August 4, 2014
Troy was wonderful to visit and fellowship with Robert doing the time Robert was ill. They had a good time talking since Robert was a pilot and Robert knew quite a few men from Nasa.He will be greatly missed.
Alex Siegel
August 4, 2014
Sandy & I have known Troy for a long time. He was a dear friend. He & I sponsored each other in AA for close to 20 years. He will be sorely missed. --Alex & Sandy Siegel
Connie Bovier
August 4, 2014
I met Troy about 20 years ago as a fellow friend of Bill W., and I was privileged to see the unconditional love and spirit of service that his big heart brought to people throughout the recovery community. When he learned that I was writing a book about faith and recovery, he became an enthusiastic supporter. He was not only the first person I interviewed for the book, but he also put me in touch with many of the other men and women who are featured in FROM THE CRUCIBLE: WHEN RECOVERY AND RELIGION MERGE. Because of Troy's courage and generosity in sharing his personal transformation story for print, his legacy will live on, blessing and encouraging the spiritual journeys of countless others who will never have the chance to meet this good man in his earthly form.
Linda Williams
August 4, 2014
I met Troy and Cissy at our wonderful little church Holy Trinity. We are like family. I will miss worshiping with Troy, the activities we shared, and especially his stories and hugs. Cissy you are loved and were here for you. RIP Troy.
At the Bougainvillea Gardens
David Fogg
August 4, 2014
I got a great deal out of Troy and me being brothers-in-law: lively discussions (mostly via email) in which I learned many things. We were antipodal politicälly, which spiced up the dialogue considerably.
He will be sorely missed by his many friends and relatives.
Wilda R. Newbrough
August 4, 2014
When I had cancer treatment and surgery,
Troy was present just before or just after praying for me. As a teacher, if I asked Troy to speak to students on alcohol abuse, he was right there, ready to share his experiences, keeping students spelled bound. He was a saint in my life. Wilda R. Newbrough
Fr. Mike Gemignani
August 4, 2014
Troy was a friend, help, and inspiration to more people than
I can count, as well as a powerful witness to the redemptive power of God.
JC
August 3, 2014
No words to ease the pain of loosing our loved one in death but I hope that the comfort from our heavenly Father and the love of family and friends will help you to cope. Philippians 4:7.
Barbara Irwin
August 2, 2014
Troy will be missed by his family at Holy Trinity Church. He was so much support when I lost my sister, Kay Stramblad Friston, he has been her friend. God Bless and support Cissy and family.
Kathy Marinko
July 30, 2014
The Whitehurst family has lost a true warrior! His legacy will live on through his children and grandchildren. God Bless you, Troy Jr.
Much love, The Marinko Family
Wiley Alston Jarrell
July 30, 2014
I've lost another Friend!
Hank Rotter
July 28, 2014
I worked and played poker with Troy in Apollo area. He was a great guy.
July 27, 2014
Troy Whitehurst was a wonderful man having over-come so much. A faithful Cristian and member of Holt Trinity Dickinson. Having known his since the 60's We shall miss him Joe and Elizabeth Willhelm
Coy Martin
July 25, 2014
I worked with Troy back in the days when we were doing qualification testing of the Apollo Parachute Recovery System, and also during the Space Shuttle Program. Troy was a good friend and coworker. Go rest high on that mountain, Troy!
July 25, 2014
I met Troy and Sissy in the mid-seventies in Kemah. Sissy knows how much we will all miss Troy. He was a great inspiration to so many in the Clear Lake area. Shirley A. Martin
Frank Parker
July 24, 2014
Til we meet again, Godspeed, old friend.
Troy, sailing on Galveston Bay
Frank Parker
July 24, 2014
Troy Whitehust-Seabrook, TX 1967
Frank Parker
July 24, 2014
I met Troy when we worked on Apollo at GE in the late 60's. Troy and I became great friends. He crewed for me on my sailboat, and we had many years of exciting times racing and cruising the Texas coast. Later in life, when I was hospitalized, it was Troy who visited me and boosted my efforts at recovery. I never had a better friend. I will miss him dearly. The photo is of Troy as he helped me install my new mast on my boat in Seabrook in 1967.
dt postel.
July 23, 2014
He was a good man to know. It was good to know him. We have an ally on the other side.
Melba York
July 23, 2014
Troy and I worked together at GE during the early Apollo years. Over the years, I would bump into him occasionally in Clear Lake and it was as though time had never passed. He would be smiling and ask about the family and get caught up on what was happening with us since I last bumped into him. He was a dear friend, a wonderful man and an inspiration to others. He will be missed. God bless.
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