Jay Van Whitlock

In the Bible the writer of the book of James reveals “My dear friends! Everyone must be quick to listen, but slow to speak and slow to become angry”. If one were to describe the life of Van Whitlock, it would be most applicable to the manner in which he lived his life. Van was born May 31, 1926 in the farming community of Shake Rag in Fayette County, Georgia. He was one of ten children born to the late Marcus Fletcher and Lillie Ora Chandler Whitlock, a well-known family who made their living off the land and their skills as farmers. Large families were the norm because of the many hands needed to keep a large farm going. Van was the last of the surviving children. As he completed his education, the country was deep into the midst of World War II and like so many of his day he answered the call and was inducted into the Army. He served until the end of the war. In 1952 he married JoAnn Newby and for the next 64 years they shared a wonderful life together. Their family became an integral part of the life of White Oak Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. For 30 years, he was a loyal employee of The Ford Motor Company assembly plant in Hapeville. Surviving Van is his wife Jo Ann Newby Whitlock and his daughters Jill Whitlock Wilson, Jerri Whitlock and Chris Ritts. He was an exemplary grandfather to Joshua Hunter and Donna Wilson, Christopher Jay Wilson, Cody Alexander Whitlock and Michael Sergey Whitlock. His great grandchildren are Noah Wilson-Sizemore, J. D. Wilson, Kynsli Wilson and Kyptin Wilson. Family and friends are invited to attend a worship service in celebration of Van’s life at White Oak ARP Church on Tuesday, July 5, 2016 at 11:00 AM. His family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 AM in the church sanctuary. Interment will be in the church cemetery with appropriate military honors by The United States Army. While flowers are a thoughtful remembrance, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Van’s honor to his beloved White Oak Presbyterian Church 2796 Gordon Road Senoia, GA 30276. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mckoon.com. McKoon Funeral Home 770-253-4580.

Jay Van Whitlock

May 31, 1926 - June 30, 2016