Jerry Lee Whitaker

Jerry Whitaker, age 81, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2024, in Odessa, TX, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 20, 1942, in Hobbs (Air Base City), New Mexico, to the late William (Short) Vester Whitaker and Mattie Mae Nave Whitaker who proceed him in death.  Also proceeded in death was his son Robert Matthew Whitaker who passed at birth.

Jerry's journey began in Monument, NM, where he spent his childhood and started his education. He graduated from Hobbs High School in 1960 and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from New Mexico State University in 1965. His quest for knowledge and dedication to his profession led him to become a Registered Professional Electrical Engineer in 1969 which he maintained until he passed.  As his career progressed, he became a Registered Professional Engineer in many other states.

Jerry's work took him on a remarkable career path. He started at New Mexico Electric Company in Hobbs, NM, from 1965 to 1969, before getting a wild hair and moving on to Northwestern Public Service in Aberdeen, SD, later in 1969. Returning to his roots, Jerry rejoined New Mexico Electric Company in Hobbs, NM, from 1970 to 1983. When New Mexico Electric merged with Southwestern Public Service, he moved the family to Amarillo, Texas, where he served from 1983 to 1997. Jerry continued his professional journey as a result of another merger with New Centuries Energy in Denver, CO, from 1997 to 1999, and Xcel Energy in Denver, CO, from 1999 to 2002, where he retired. Not one to sit still, Jerry joined Peak Power in Golden, CO, from 2002 to 2010.  This job took him across the US and spent much time in Northern New Mexico and West Texas when he retired full time.

Jerry's passion for his professional community extended beyond his employment, as he was a proud member of the National Society of Professional Engineers and the Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers. These memberships highlighted his commitment to excellence and his desire to make a positive impact within his field.

During his retirement he served as Director of Finance for the United Methodist Church in McCamey and also as a board member on the Upton County Water Board.

Outside of work, Jerry had many interests and hobbies that brought him joy. He was an avid golfer and a dedicated reader.  He also had a talent for building muzzle-loading rifles and enjoyed spending time hunting. In his other spare moments, he would cast his line and try his luck fishing from Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma.

Jerry was a man of integrity, known for his honesty and unwavering loyalty.

On September 22, 1962, Jerry sealed his love and devotion to his beloved wife, Marilyn Whitaker at the Asbury Methodist church in Hobbs, NM.  Together, they shared a beautiful journey of love, mutual support, and companionship for over sixty-one (61) years. Jerry was a devoted husband, always cherishing and prioritizing his marriage.  They have known each other for over 70 years.

Jerry's passing leaves a void in the lives of his family and friends, but his memory will forever be cherished by those who survive him. He is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn of McCamey, TX; his son, Jim Whitaker, and wife Michele of Morrison, CO; his son, Bill Whitaker of Lakewood, CO; his daughter, Jennifer Aguilar, and husband Tony of McCamey, TX; his grandson, Matthew Whitaker, and wife Brittany of Littleton, CO; his grandson, Dr. Connor Whitaker, and wife Dr. Annalis Whitaker of Blue Bell, PA; his granddaughter, Gillian Gamboa, and husband Tommy of Aurora, CO; his grandson, Ruben Aguilar of McCamey, TX; his granddaughter, Amelia Aguilar of McCamey, TX; his great-grandson, Oliver Whitaker of Littleton, CO; his great-grandson, Weston Whitaker of Littleton, CO; his great-granddaughter, Ceres Whitaker of Blue Bell, PA; and his great-granddaughter, Addy Gamboa of Aurora, CO.

The celebration of Jerry's life will be held at the East Side Baptist Church on E 9th St in McCamey, TX, on February 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM. The family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association in Jerry's memory. Contributions can be made online at https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all the nurses, doctors, and caregivers at Medical Center Health Hospital in Odessa, TX, for their unwavering support and compassionate care during Jerry's final days.

Jerry Lee Whitaker will be remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father, and a doting grandfather. His legacy of honesty, loyalty, and dedication to his family, profession, and community will forever inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.