Gerald Wayne Whitehead passed away on Nov. 8, 2013, at his home in Rogersville, Ala. He was 80.
Gerald was a man who cherished his family every day of his life. Born Dec. 29, 1932, the ninth child of Jesse Thurston Whitehead and Clara Odell Dean Whitehead, he always remembered being loved by his parents and many siblings. On May 25, 1956, he married Cornelia Faye Wilson. The them were born three children. His son< Gerald Wayne Whitehead Jr., preceded him in death. He is survived by two daughters, Lisa Whiteheads and partner, Monica Speed, of Huntsville, and Carol Highfield and husband, Tom Highfield, also of Huntsville. He cherished his grandchildren, Casey Highfield and Andrew Highfield. He is survived by sisters, Emogene Hyatt, Lala Bedingfield, Barbara Lankford and brother, Bruce Whitehead. He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Dassah Sims, Sybil Blankenship, Hildred Jones, Mildred Finley and brother Jesse Thurston Whitehead Jr.
Along with his love of family was Gerald’s love of God. He was a member of First Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Rogersville. He served his church as an elder, treasurer and Sunday school teacher for many years. His devotion to his beliefs was evidenced daily by those who knew him.
Gerald Whitehead also loved his country and the little town of Rogersville. He served in the United States Air Force in the 47th Air Police Squadron. He served his town by active membership in the Civitan Club. He was a caring friend and neighbor to all who knew him.
He graduated with honor in 1958 from Florence State College. He worked until his retirement as an accountant for the Army Missile Command in Huntsville. His retirement years were spent gardening with his wife, Faye, working for his church and enjoying his many friends and family.
Services will be held at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Rogersville. Visitation will be from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday with service immediately following. Burial will be in the Civitan Cemetery afterward with Pat Driskell and Jody Hill officiating.
