Dorlas Clinton Whitaker, 87, went home to be with his Lord August 16, 2021, surrounded by his wife and children. He has been a Christian for 74 years and a member of Center Missionary Baptist Church for 72 years. He was the oldest, living member. This is where he met his first and only love, his wife of 67 years and ten months, Gloria Kay Gwathney Whitaker. Dorlas served as Treasurer for several years, and favorite Bible verses to quote included, “Love thy neighbor as thyself.” He is also survived by his three children, daughter, Vicki Cheryl Whitaker, sons, Brian Keith, Devin Lee, (Beth); two grandsons, Dustin Lee (Caitlyn), Dalton Neil; great granddaughter, Isla James Whitaker; special uncle Willard (Janie) Whitaker, and aunt Edna (Whitaker) Sutton; numerous cousins, and friends.
Dorlas was preceded in death by his parents, Aubert Clinton Whitaker and Vida Lois (Doran) Whitaker; his in-laws, who thought of him as the son they never had, Rev. Frank and Nelta (Fanning) Gwathney.
Dorlas was a 1952 graduate of New Hope High School. He was a hard worker and worked part-time jobs while in high school. After graduation, he went to work at General Shoe Corporation in Huntsville. In 1958, a friend recruited him to work as an agent with his company. Dorlas was not sure he could become a good salesman. The agent asked him to just consider the offer and ride with him one day. He allowed him to make a sale, and he was hooked. He was District Manager with United Security Life Insurance Company for several years. The company was bought by Mutual Savings Life Insurance Company where he worked until his retirement in 1988. He was a very competitive person and gifted at sales. He and his wife were able to travel to many states and made several trips abroad based on his exceptionalism. After his retirement, he enjoyed raising cattle and large gardens. He loved to have enough to share with family, friends, and neighbors. He also enjoyed carpentry work and remodeled several houses.
Funeral services will be held at the New Hope Funeral Home Chapel, Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 2:00 PM; visitation at 1:00 PM prior to service. Pastor Chris Sims will be officiating. Pallbearers will be Hollis Click, Doyle Martin, Danny Rich, Darren Morrow, Odie Jones, and Rickey Posey.
Due to recent concerns with increased COVID-19 infections, New Hope Funeral Home and the Whitaker family are requesting Masks to be worn during public services.
