John Whitt, 71

January 14, 2011

John W. Whitt, 71, of South Whitley, died at 7:27 a.m. Friday, Jan. 14, 2011 at his home.
He was born Oct. 5, 1939 in Prestonsburg, Ky., a son of Cecil and Rhoda (Elliott) Whitt. He spent his formative years in Prestonsburg and attended Prestonsburg High School. He served with the Kentucky National Guard.
On July 28, 1962, he was united in marriage to Janice C. Darley. They made their home in the South Whitley.
He spent his work career in the construction trade with D&C Construction, South Whitley.
His memberships include South Whitley United Methodist Church and South Whitley Lions Club. An avid Whitko sports fan, he assisted the football team as a spotter. Due to his prominent seat by the doorway at Whitko home basketball games, he earned the reputation as “Crowd Control.”
Surviving relatives include his wife of 48 years, Janice; two sons, Michael Whitt of South Whitley and Marvin (Sherry) Whitt of Huntington; a daughter, Amy (Trent) Szelis, Huntington; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three half-brothers, Elbert Sammons of Warsaw, Eddie Sammons and Columbus Sammons, both of Prestonsburg; and two half-sisters, Ottie Rice of Prestonsburg and Joyce Tussey of David, Ky.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Cecil Whitt; sister, Jo Anne Holbrook and a granddaughter.
The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Monday at South Whitley United Methodist Church, 6685 W State Road 14 with visitation one hour before the service. Burial will be in the South Whitley Cemetery. Visitation will also be from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley.
Preferred memorials are to Whitko Athletic Department.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com.