Julia Elizabeth Keith Whitaker

Julia Elizabeth Keith Whitaker, formerly of Counce, TN, was born June 12, 1934 and passed from this life on March 15, 2022, in Sun City Center, Florida.

Julia was born in Easley, South Carolina, in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, where she was the eldest daughter of nine children born to Ressie and Floyd S. Keith. While attending nursing school Julia married Ray Whitaker, of Michie, TN, who was stationed at a nearby Air Force base. Even though her nursing plan was postponed while raising her children, she returned to school and finished her degree and worked several years at area hospitals. The friends she made while finishing nursing school remained dear to her always.

Mrs. Whitaker was a member of Center Hill Baptist Church, and attended Michie First Baptist Church for many years as well. She took great joy in her church activities and especially loved teaching vacation bible school.

She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and friend. Her kindness and smile will be missed by many.

Julia was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Whitaker, and her son, Richard Whitaker. She is survived by two daughters, Judy Smith (Randy),and Sandra Gregory(Steve), both of Florida, three grandsons, three great-grandchildren, and one great-great granddaughter, as well as five siblings and a much loved extended family.