Long time Rhodes College football coach passes away

Long time Rhodes College football coach passes away

(Story taken from the Rhodes College website)

MEMPHIS, Tenn.
- Coach John Whittaker, who served as a part-time Assistant Football Coach at Rhodes College since 1987, passed away peacefully in his sleep early this morning. Coach Whittaker is the husband of Cissy Whittaker, who works in the Meeman Center.

Better known as Coach Whit to Lynx football players, John has been a fixture on the Rhodes sideline since 1987 serving as Coach Gordon Ellingsworth's assistant coaching the offensive line. In addition to his football duties, Coach Whit served as the staff mentor for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter at Rhodes.

"John Whittaker had three great loves in his life," said Rhodes Athletic Director Mike Clary. "He loved his wife Cissy, his children and grandchildren, and he loved the Rhodes football program."

Coach Whittaker joined the Rhodes staff in 1987 and since that time has become one of the most beloved athletic staff members in Rhodes history. "Our athletic staff and football staff, and especially the Lynx football players, respected and loved Coach Whit," said Coach Clary. "There are so many great stories and moments associated with John Whittaker and the Lynx football program. He is truly a legend."

Details for services have yet to be determined, but will be posted on the athletic website when they are arranged. Please keep Cissy and the Whittaker family in your thoughts and prayers.

UPDATE: Arrangements have been set for John Whittaker. Visitation will take place this Thursday, May 19, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Family Funeral Care, 4925 Summer Ave, Memphis, TN 38112 (901-761-8000) . The funeral will take place on Friday, May 20, at 1:00 pm at Germantown United Methodist Church, 2331 South Germantown Rd, Germantown, TN 38138 (901-754-7216). We're awaiting word from the family if there is any charity a memorial can be sent.