Leslie Whitaker

Friends will be received at the funeral home on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Leslie Whitaker, Jr., 70

Of Downs Street, affectionately known as "China" by many friends, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, at New Paltz Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. He was born on March 8, 1955, in Staten Island at Saint Vincent's Hospital. He was the beloved son of the late Leslie Whitaker Sr and Julia Edgerston.

Leslie had many jobs, but one of his proudest was working as a deck hand aboard tug boats until health conditions forced him to step away. If you knew him, you would know of his many stories he loved to tell about being out at sea. Prior to relocating to Kingston, NY, he lived in Staten Island.

Since childhood, Leslie was known as a troublemaker, prankster, or "ladies' man." From a young age, he was drawn to music, partying, and rhythm. He loved house music and would be described as a true lofter, and proud member of the 99 Prince Street crew of Staten Island. He cherished the lifelong friendships and sense of community he gained from the world of house music. Leslie spent countless weekends DJing and attending Loft parties in Manhattan, where he could be found behind the turntables or on the dance floor, dancing the night away; that's where he felt most alive. He truly enjoyed sharing his passion for music with others.

Leslie carried a "forever young" energy that brought joy, laughter, and sometimes playful frustration to those around him. He was a great cook, a loud storyteller, and a man with a boldly questionable sense of fashion that he wore with confidence. He joked often and lived life unapologetically in his own way. Leslie loved the Giants, their family pet turtle Duke who you could find clonking around the house or hanging out by his feet, the ocean, yachts, talking on the phone, and most importantly, being a dad to his daughter Danyelle, who was his proudest accomplishment.

Leslie is survived by his daughters, Moniquea Murphy (Jack) and Danyelle Whitaker; bonus children, Traci Moore, Dawny Spurgeon and Calvin Spurgeon (Mariah); sisters, Deborrah Ivy and Melinda Edwards and; grandchildren, La'Monii Robinson, Calvin Spurgeon, Eviana Spurgeon, and Emilio Spurgeon; his beloved turtle, Duke; his fur grandchild Honey and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving family members. He was predeceased by his step father David Johnson, mother Julia Johnson, brother Louis Powers, sister Ruth Edwards, brother-in-law Leonard Edwards, his long-lost love Brenda Spurgeon and several aunts, uncles nephews and friends.

Danyelle Whitaker and family would like to give their deepest thanks for all the love, support and prayers given out during this difficult time.