His Journey
The Path of Beginning...
James Earl Whitmore began life's journey on April 15, 1957. Being one of eleven children born to the late R.T. Whitmore Sr. and Argie Mae Epps-Whitmore of The 'Blue-Front' Community in Daingerfield, Texas. He was lovingly known simply as 'Black or Pops' by his family and friends.
The Path of Salvation…
With an enduring understanding of God's supremacy, Black accepted Christ as his personal savior early in life and was later baptized and joined Morning Chapel Baptist Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Harold Nash Sr. in Sulphur Springs, Texas, while also actively and faithfully attending Olive Branch Baptist Church in Sulphur Springs, Texas later in life; building a close and special bond with Pastor Leon Gossett Sr. He served his church in all sincerity until his health declined recently.
The Path of Love…
Black moved to Sulphur Springs, Texas at the early age of seventeen. He quickly met and fell in love with Wanda Harris (Whitmore). From this union, two children were born; Moneshia Whitmore of Irving, Texas and Brandon Whitmore of Sulphur Springs, Texas. Black and Wanda remained united partners for over forty-four years until her life's journey was complete on October 04, 2019.
The Path of Purpose…
Black found his passion for work in manufacturing; building long-lasting friendships while operating machinery at Ocean Spray, The HON Company, Speciality Foods, Sure-Start and more. Black also had a passion for sports and enjoyed watching, while calmly and accurately predicting 'upsets' in both the NFL and NBA. He was a loyal Patriots and Lakers fan; faithfully cheering both teams on until his last days. Choosing to live 'outside the box,' Black was a natural leader; encouraging others to live life to the fullest, because each day is a blessing that could be our last!! Although not realizing its full force until his health declined, Black was a powerful mentor and Father figure to many; able to pass away peacefully, after sharing unpredictable life lessons with us all.
The Path of Eternal Rest…
Late Sunday night, February 16, 2020; Black breathed his last breath on Earth. He peacefully dozed off into a beautiful place of 'eternal rest.' Joyfully meeting him at heaven's pearly gates will gladly and lovingly be his parents; R.T. and Argie Mae Whitmore, his wife; Wanda Harris-Whitmore, whom he has longed to reunite with; three brothers; Henry (Kimmie) Whitmore, R.T. (Pooka-Luke) Whitmore Jr., and Pastor George Earl Whitmore; and two sisters; Daisy (Red) Whitmore and Vernice (Susie) Whitmore. Oh, what a joyous reunion must be occurring in heaven!
The Path to the Future…
Black leaves behind an extremely strong legacy of excellent work ethic, unwavering loyalty and faith, extraordinary strength, selfless generosity, sound wisdom, and most importantly; a never-ending love for his family and countless friends. Those left to cherish the unforgettable memories and to carry his remarkable legacy are: his beloved daughter, Moneshia and 'twin' son Brandon, sister and special caregiver; Carolyn Whitmore of Lufkin, Texas, an equally special 'Big Sis,' Evelyn Isiah of Clarksville, Texas; and a 'Baby Sis,' he was very proud of, Alicia 'Lisa' Robinson of Longview, Texas. And, special baby brothers: Ricky Whitmore of Daingerfield, Texas and David 'NFL' Whitmore (Janeen) of Rowlett, Texas. Black was also blessed with an irreplaceable extended family after marrying Wanda: special sister-in-laws, Emma Jean Delcambre of Sulphur Springs, Texas; Annie Mearl Wilkerson of Sulphur Springs, Texas, Alice Williams (Dave) of Dallas, Texas, Jane Harris-Clayton of Desoto,Texas and one close friend and brother-in-law, Sammie Harris Jr. As well as a special niece, Simone Williams of Sulphur Springs, Texas. 'Pops,' as his 'grand-babies' fondly called him; leaves 8 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson to honor and continue his amazing legacy; as well as an incalculable number of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. Today, our Daddy, Brother, and Friend would not want us to mourn, but rejoice in understanding that: JAMES 'Black' EARL WHITMORE LIVED!!!