It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of Phillip Ray Whitaker of Washington, NC — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
Below, a small portrait of a life that will not soon be forgotten.
Phillip spent his working life as ['Hackney before retiring'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
We measure lives in love, not minutes.
Phillip Ray Whitaker, born October 23, 1945, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, at the age of 80. A dedicated farmer throughout his life, Phillip also worked at Hackney before retiring. His days were filled with the joys of hunting, farming, and cherishing the moments spent with his beloved family and friends. Watching his grandchildren play sports brought immeasurable joy to his heart, as they were truly his world.
He was preceded in death by his father, Redden "RL" Louis Whitaker, his mother, Bessie Woolard Whitaker, his brother, Gene Whitaker, and his sister, Joyce Wells. Phillip leaves behind his devoted wife of 62 years, Mary Louann Cahoon Whitaker; his son, Troy Whitaker; his daughter, Kimberly Chrisman, and her husband, Tony; his sister, Rita Dickerson; and his cherished grandchildren, Shaelee and Trevor Chrisman. His faithful fur baby, Abigail, also survives him.
Visitation will be held from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, at Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service. The funeral service will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, also at Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service, with a graveside service immediately following at Pamlico Memorial Gardens.
Phillip's enduring love for his family and his passion for the land will be remembered by all who knew him.
Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service is honored to assist the Whitaker family.
