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Billy Whitaker Obituary
August 7, 1939 - December 12, 2024
Billy G. Whitaker, 85, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024, in Grayson, Georgia, with his loving daughter and son-in-law by his side. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant of God, Billy led a life centered on faith, family, and service to others.
Born to Grace and Elmer Whitaker in Dobson, North Carolina, Billy graduated from Dobson High School before earning his MBA from Wake Forest University. He married the love of his life, Bonnie Whitaker, and together they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2020.
Billy dedicated his career to serving others through his work at Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina, where he served as president from 1986 to 2006. Under his leadership, Goodwill grew into one of the top-performing Goodwills' in the country, expanding vocational services to help those in need. His lasting legacy is embodied in the Whitaker Regional Operations Center, opened in 2009, which continues to provide vital services to the community.
A man of deep faith, Billy was an active member of Pfafftown Baptist Church and Ardmore Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he held various finance positions over the years. Most recently, he attended The Church on Main in Snellville, Georgia, where he remained steadfast in his faith and service.
Billy's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his daughter Tammy Schaffernoth, his son Keith Whitaker, and his cherished grandchildren: Cory & Katelyn Schaffernoth, Kelsey Gantz, as well as Kathleen, Gracie, and Paul Whitaker.
A small celebration of life service will be held at a later date to honor his memory and celebrate the incredible impact he had on so many lives.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina or a church organization of your choice, continuing Billy's legacy of faith and service.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:21.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Billy Whitaker
Ms. Terry Whitley Firle
August 1, 2025
Tammy, Keith & Family, I thought that I had left a condolence note when Billy passed way but just now discovered that I did not. I thought the world or your parents and always enjoyed being with them, and you all as well, when we attended Pfafftown Baptist Church. They both were such a blessing to everyone and will always be missed. Also, I never did hear anything about a memorial service so please accept my humble apology for missing it. You all take care.
With Love in Christ & Continued Prayers,
Terry Whitley Firle
jean Nixon
January 11, 2025
So sorry for your loss... He is with Bonnie again..
Sherry Carpenter
January 11, 2025
Billy was instrumental in building Goodwill Industries of Northwest NC. I am grateful for his leadership. Much sympathy to his family.
Cheryl nelson
January 7, 2025
Tammy and Keith I´m so sorry for your loss. Billy was a good man and a great father to you both, you will truly miss him
Leigh Davis
January 6, 2025
Tammy and Robbie,
Billy was simply amazing! Miss you guys. Keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Virginia Carlisle
January 6, 2025
Billy was the kindest neighbor anyone could wish for. I will miss him. My prayers go out to the family at this difficult time.
Michael Clements
January 5, 2025
I had the honor of serving on the board of Goodwill when Billy was President. He was an outstanding leader and a great supporter of our community. He helped to make Goodwill the incredible organization it is today. His legacy will live on.
Fred Patterson
January 5, 2025
Billy and Bonnie were great people of faith. Our time together At Pfafftown Baptist were special. Blessings to the Whitaker family!
Marcia Cole
January 5, 2025
Billy was a wonderful man and friend. So sad to hear of his passing. He and I were colleagues when he was at Goodwill, and I was at Red Cross. I have great memories of our work together. Thinking of his family at this time.
Marcia Cole
Scott and Elaine Bauer
January 5, 2025
Fortunate to have known such a fine man. He did so much for so many. Prayers go out to the family.
Tommy Hawkins
January 5, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Family. May God give you Peace and Comfort during this time.
Sincerely
Tommy and Susan Hawkins
Jannie Boles
December 31, 2024
I truly enjoyed getting to know Billy and respected his advice and direction. Not only was he incredibly intelligent but he was a good man.
He will be missed!
Tom & Diane Runser
December 31, 2024
Tammy & Rob,
So sorry to hear of Billy passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May he now rest in peace eternally with the love of his life, sweet Bonnie.
We hope you find strength in knowing he lived a wonderful life.
Tom & Diane Runser
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