Obituaries

Roosevelt Wilhite was born July 24, 1945 to the late Elbert and Ioney Wilhite, Sr. in Phillips County, Arkansas. He received his heavenly reward March 12, 2020 surrounded by his loving family at Baptist Memorial Hospital, Memphis Tennessee.

Roosevelt accepted Christ as his personal Savior at an early age. He was a dedicated member of First Baptist Church Cordell, Eldorado Arkansas under the leadership of Reverend Pierce Moore. After relocating to Southaven, Mississippi, he joined Brown Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Bartholomew Orr where he remained faithful until his health declined.

Roosevelt received his formal education within the Helena – West Helena School District. He was a proud Eliza Miller High School graduate; Class of 1963. He went on to serve his country in the United States Army. After returning, he found employment with Clean Harbours of Eldorado, Arkansas; retiring after 36 years of service.

Roosevelt united in Holy Matrimony to Verlene Baker Wilhite September 26, 1975. This union of 44 years was blessed with one son. He truly understood the value and meaning of love for your family. Believing in the family’s motto; “God and Family First.”

Roosevelt is preceded in death by his parents; Elbert and Ioney Wilhite, Sr., four brothers; Willie, George, Henry, Elbert Jr., and one sister; Aberta Townsell.

Roosevelt leave to cherish his memories a loving wife; Verlene Wilhite of Southaven MS, one son; Eric Wilhite of Nashville TN, one sister; Pearlie Price of Milwaukee WI, one brother; Lawrence (Ollie) Wilhite of Milwaukee WI, a special brother; Homer Williams, Jr. of West Helena AR and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.