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James "JD" Dorr Whitlatch Jr., 87, of Vienna, West Virginia, passed peacefully on July 7, 2025. He was the son of Alma and James Dorr Whitlatch, Sr.
JD was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 43 years, Marsha, his parents, and his cherished brother, Robert "Bob" Whitlatch.
He is survived by his loving daughter, Kelli Beymer (Nicole), of Moyock, North Carolina, and his treasured grandson, Gunner Beymer, who was the light of his life. He also leaves behind his cherished nephew, Jay Whitlatch (Kristie) of Ashland, Kentucky; his loved niece, Debbie Eddy (Joe) of Wheeling, West Virginia; his dear sister-in-law, Cheryl Smith; and his loved brother-in-law, Jim Ross (Carolyn) of Parkersburg, West Virginia--as well as many nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart.
After graduating from Olive-Orange/Eastern High School in 1956, JD proudly served in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Connecticut and at White Sands, New Mexico, where he worked with Nike Ajax missiles--an experience he remembered fondly throughout his life.
Upon returning home, JD began a 29-year career at GTE Sylvania/Challenger Electric. After retirement, he and Marsha, embraced their golden years as Florida snowbirds, cherishing their winters in the sunshine.
JD was an adventurous soul and a lifelong athlete. He loved boating, water skiing, snow skiing, and anything that involved friendly competition. He was especially passionate about golf, playing regularly at Worthington Golf Club and achieving an impressive three holes-in-one--always joking that he was chasing his fourth. In high school, he played football, basketball, and baseball alongside his brother Bob, creating memories and bonds that shaped him. A true car enthusiast, JD never missed a good car show and loved talking about cars.
But of all his accomplishments, he often said, "My biggest accomplishment in life was accepting Jesus Christ as my Savior."
JD was a proud member of Fellowship Baptist Church and a lifelong member of the Elks Lodge. Known for his warm smile and outgoing nature, he never met a stranger and made friends everywhere he went.
JD's family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the amazing nurses and staff at Wyngate Assisted Living, as well as the compassionate caregivers at Amedisys Hospice.
JD lived his life to the fullest--faithfully, joyfully, and with a generous spirit. His legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in all who had the blessing of knowing him.
Funeral services will be Saturday 11:00am at the Leavitt Funeral Home in Parkersburg with Pastor Brian Leversee officiating. Burial will be in the Sunset Memory Gardens. Visitation will be Friday from 4:00-7:00pm.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.leavittfuneralhome.com.