James Robert Whiting, 71, of Generations Dr. South Bend, Indiana passed away after an illness on Friday, October 2, 2020, at 5:32 a.m. in St. Joseph Medical Regional Center.
James was born in South Bend, Indiana on May 10, 1949, to the union of Willie Mae Brooks and Ruffin Whiting. He attended Riley High School and was married to Shirley Smith for 10 years.
James worked as a youth home coordinator for The Family and Children Center for many years and spent the latter part of his life enjoying his hobbies and interest. James enjoyed fishing, watching sports, and his favorites Western “Cowboy” movies. He was a social person with an outgoing personality and would engage in conversation with everyone he met.
James is survived by eight children: David Whiting, Dameon (Emma) Smith, Terry (Shelly) Whiting, Justin Whiting, and Jasmine Whiting, all of South Bend, Indiana; DaKenya McDuffy and JaShana Whiting of Indianapolis, Indiana and James R. Whiting Jr. of Seattle, Washington; 21 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; five sisters: Dorothy (Edward) Wright of South Bend, Rosa (Alex) Morris of Payallup, Washington, Ida (John T.) Montgomery of Elk Grove, California, Dianne (Dwight) Coleman of Seattle, Washington, and Shelline (Geoffrey) Warren of Los Angeles, California; one beloved sister-in-law, Denise (Herman) Whiting of South Bend; one aunt, Mattie B. Elion (William) of Coldwater, Mississippi; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Ruffin and Willie Mae Whiting; his brothers: William Jewel and Elias Herman Whiting; an infant daughter, Tanya Marie; his son Jason; and his great-granddaughter, Mariela E. Elyane.
Burial will follow at Highland/Riverview Cemetery.
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