Phillip Ray Whitaker

Phillip Ray Whitaker, 81, passed away at Novant Forsyth Medical Center, April 18, 2021. He was born April 6, 1940 to the late Woodrow and Ida P. Whitaker. He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife of 60 years, Bonnie Faries Whitaker; a son and daughter-in-law, Dale and Annette Whitaker; grandchildren, Matthew and Victoria Whitaker, Tyler Whitaker; step grandchildren, Brandon Rossman, Haley Rossman Wood and husband, Riley Wood; great grandchildren, Khloe, Kallie, and Jarvis Whitaker and Eleanor and Warren Wood; sisters and brothers-in-law, Joan and Gary Atkins ,Patty and Dexter Newsome; a sister-in-law, Annabelle Whitaker; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister and brother-in-law, Brenda and Frank Barnes; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Harold and Brenda Whitaker and Kenny Whitaker.

Phil loved his job and worked for over thirty years with R.J. Reynold. He was an integral part in R. J. R. International. He was an avid golfer, winning in 1990, the World Amateur Golf Championship. Phil was a strong, kind man who had a great love for his family, friends, traveling, and hunting. He has left his mark on all who have met him and has now gone to live with our Heavenly Father in peace and happiness.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, April 22, 2021 at 2:00 PM at Pinnacle View Baptist Church. The Rev. Ron Chamblin, Sr. and Bro. J. K. Faries will be officiating. Mr. Whitaker will lie in state at Cox-Needham Funeral Home, Tuesday, April 20, 2021 from 1:00 PM -5:00 PM, Wednesday, from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, and Thursday, from 9:00 AM -11:00 AM.

The family asks that all attendees please wear masks and practice social distancing. If not feeling well or running a fever, please refrain from attending.

Cox-Needham Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Whitaker family.

Condolences may be left at www.coxneedham.com .

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