William Newell Whitman

William Newell Whitman 77 of Kelly, Louisiana, passed away peacefully in his home. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service and devotion to his family.

In loving memory of William Newell Whitman, 77 of Kelly, Louisiana, passed away peacefully in his home, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion to his family. He was born on November 22, 1948, in Monroe, Louisiana. William proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he earned three separate medals. He served 2 tours in Vietnam in the 11th Cavalry. His time in service reflected the courage, dedication, and patriotism that remained a part of his character throughout his life. Will is preceded in death by his parents, Henry Newell Whitman, his mother Betty Irene Whitman; two brothers, Rusty Whitman and Wilford Whitman, who was a infant; sister Ann Whitman; nephews, John Whitman Jr, and Allen Fife; daughter, Tasha Stapleton; and two brother-in-laws, Bob Pedan and Mike Martien.

 Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife Debbie Gilmore Whitman; his brothers, Goldman Whitman (Angie), Glen Whitman (Alice), John Whitman (Odell); sisters, Betty Ruth Martien, Alice Faye Pedan; daughter, Misty Breland (Kevin); grandchildren, Dylan Breland (Brittany), Chelsey Nordstrom (Dylan), Kade Stapleton; great-grandchildren, Haisley Nordstrom, Kinsley Nordstrom, and arriving soon Wesley Dewayne Nordstrom; nephews, Jason Whitman, Jim Whitman, Kevin Pedan, Keith Pedan; nieces, Chaunta Milam (CJ), Becky Smith; as well as a host of family and friends.

 William had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found great joy in life's simple pleasures. Whether he was hunting in the woods, fishing, tending to his garden, or enjoying golf with family and friends, he loved to lead. He embraced every moment with gratitude. He was known for his hardworking spirit, kind heart, and willingness to help anyone in need. His gentle nature, sense of humor, and love for his family made him someone who was admired and loved by all who knew him.

Pallbearers will include Cody Whitman, Jim Whitman, Glen Whitman, Keith Gilmore, Rickey Stowe, and Dylan Breland. Honorary pallbearers are Bobby Clark, Danny Gilmore, Albert Thompson, Glen Ray Gilmore, Paul Douglas, Rocky Brandon, and Tony Owens.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in knowing he lived a life filled with purpose, honor, and love. His memory will continue to live on through the lives he touched, the stories he shared, and the values he passed on to those who knew him.

                                                                       "Well done, good and faithful servant!"

                                                                                        Matthew 25:23