Norris F. Whittaker
Norris Fleming Whittaker Sr., 92 years of age, of Woodsfield Ohio, passed away on May 25, 2022. Norris passed away quietly in his sleep into the arms of his Lord and Savior. Norris was born on February 2, 1930 to the late Alexander Beard Whittaker and Lura Adelaide Norris in Clarksburg in Harrison County, WV. After graduating from Woodsfield High School in 1948, he went on to study at Ohio University and Chaffey Junior College at Ontario, CA. In December 1950, he enlisted in the Ohio Air National Guard with active duty during the Korean War, from Nov 1, 1951 through Oct 20, 1952. He was relieved of duty with an honorable discharge with rank of Private First Class. Later he began his working career as a locomotive fireman for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Co.. Then, he and his wife, Gloria, built the Pioneer Motel in 1959 and sold it in 1971. His last employment was with the North American Coal Co. where he was a cutting machine operator. Norris was also a passionate genealogist and could often be found studying and researching when he wasn’t at home. He assisted with documentation of the Pioneer Cemetery, along with other small cemeteries around Monroe County. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion along with being a lifetime member of the Sons of the American Revolution. In 1945 he met Gloria Marie McKelvey and they wed in 1952, and went on to have four children: Norris F. Whittaker Jr., Carlene L. Whittaker Hess, Warren A. Whittaker, and stillborn daughter Whittaker. He is survived by his 3 children along with his grandchildren: James M. Hess (Jennifer), Lura K. Zornes (Nathan), Andrew E. Whittaker (Maggie), Dylan A. Whittaker, and Raven W Hamilton. His great-grandchildren include: Kaleigh J. Hess, Zachary J. Hess, Lindsey M. Whittaker, Mason A. Whittaker, and Oliver R. Haines. He also has several nieces and nephews along with great nieces and nephews, and his sweetheart of over 20 years, Dorris Weddle. Norris was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world and was something he often mentioned. He was unendingly proud of his family and always tried his best to support them. There will be a private graveside service at the discretion of the family.