Biography: George Runyan Whittaker passed away on January 5, 2022 in Little Rock, AR. He was born on February 6, 1937 in Roselle Park, New Jersey.
He is preceded in death by his parents, George Whittaker, Jr. and Nina Payne Whittaker. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Jackie Scott Whittaker; children, Deborah Ann Stramel (Joe), George Ronald Whittaker (Gerritt), Jill Halsell (J.C.), Jon Robert Whittaker (Amanda), grandchildren, Payden Stramel, Kacey Stramel Hollowell, Sasha Stramel, Abigail Arete Whittaker, Finley Ronald Whittaker, Blake Christian Halsell, Davis Turner Halsell, Eva Beth Whittaker, Kellan James Whittaker and 5 great-grandchildren.
After graduating from Delta State University in 1959, George spent 50 plus years in the golf industry working for the Acushnet, Founders Club, Sahara Sportswear, and many more. George was an avid golfer regularly found at Pleasant Valley Country Club or lunch dates around town with friends. He was also a proud dad and grandfather who enjoyed cheering on his grandkids at their sporting events. George was an avid reader, poet, gardener and lover of the salty air that warms the Gulf of Mexico. A true gentleman in every sense, who always met you with a handshake and a smile. He will truly be missed by all that knew him, but the stories will live on through his legacy.
A private family ceremony will be held at Ruebel Funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. James United Methodist Church, 321 Pleasant Valley Drive Little Rock, Arkansas 72212, or St. Jude Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org.