Vernon Whittington

Vernon Rutledge Whittington passed away from natural causes at his home in Austin, Texas, on March 18, 2020.

Whit, as he was known to his friends, was born in Boyd, Wise County, Texas on January 29, 1922 to Gilbert E. Whittington and Allie Jane Baker. He was graduated from Northside High School in Fort Worth, TX. He told many colorful stories about his childhood experiences during the Great Depression and Prohibition.

During World War II, Whit painted military airplanes at the Consolidated plant in Fort Worth. After the war ended, he worked in the automobile industry. In the early 1960s, he entered the United Methodist ministry, was graduated from Texas Wesleyan College in 1968, and attended the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. He also attended the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and the University of Jerusalem. Whit served many United Methodist Churches throughout the Central Texas Conference. After retiring, he relocated to Austin and worked for many years as a substitute teacher.

Whit was an avid world traveler. He traveled to Europe and the Holy Land many times. He also enjoyed adventures to China, Mongolia, Russia, Morocco, Canada, and South America. He loved the Texas Coast where he spent many happy hours fishing and walking the beaches. Whit also pursued many hobbies including photography and ham radios.

Whit was a Moslah Shriner, a member of the Grand Commandery Knights Templar Texas Colorado Commandery No. 4, a Past Master and Master Mason of the Grand Lodge of Texas Cooke-Peavy No. 1162, and a member of the Lone Star 6, R.A.M.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, John R. Whittington, Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Pam Whittington; his son, John R. Whittington; his daughter, Scarlett Cooley; his grandson, Charles Chenault; his great-granddaughter, Kris Chenault; and his great-great-grandson, Hunter Chenault. He is remembered by nieces Jeanie, Jessie, and Sherri and nephews Harry, Lynn, and Steve. Whit is missed by many friends, including his dear friend David Beer.

Whit adored all animals and loved many cats over the years. If you wish to make a contribution in his memory, please consider Austin Pets Alive.