Arthur “Art” Lee Whittaker age 87, died January 21, 2020, a Reid Health after a short illness. He was born April 15, 1932, in Freemont, Ohio to John Arthur Whittaker and Ocie Frances Booher Whittaker.

Art attended Bethel A.M.E. Church during his growing years, Rev. W.D. Shannon was Pastor. Art rededicated his life to Christ July 9, 2006, and was under the leadership of Pastor Barbara Harris.

Art was a 1950 Richmond High School graduate. He is an Air Force Veteran and was with the 4932nd Squadron Air for Sea Rescue.

Art was employed with Roger Sash and Doors in Hartford, Connecticut, Swayne Robinson, Johns Mansville, Belden and retired from ALCOA in Richmond, Indiana, in 1994.

Survivors include two children: Arthur John Whittaker and Denise Whittaker; beloved cousins: Ardelia Hawkins and Ron Bass; special family: Lee and Nora Ann Agnew; and many friends and acquaintances.

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents; one daughter: Virginia Mae Whittaker; one half-brother: Franklin Rile (Liberty, Indiana); one half-sister: Liddie Rile (Grayson, Michigan); and a special person to him: Charlene Burden Patterson Whittaker.

The family gives special thanks to everyone who has made phone calls, shown your love and concerns and to all who has offered to assist us during our difficult time.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 27, 2020, at 1:00 PM, at Community Family Funeral Home, 101 West Main Street, Richmond, with Pastor Martel Winburn, Sr. officiating. Family and friends may visit Monday at the funeral home beginning at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Earlham Cemetery with military rites provided by the Wayne County Honor Guard. Send online condolences to the family via the guestbook at www.communityfamilyfh.com