Alex Whittinghill

January 29, 1956 – January 6, 2026

Wayland Alexander “Alex” Whittinghill III passed away suddenly on January 6, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Pamela Whittinghill and Vicki Richardson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Laura "Laurie" Jean Whittinghill, the love of his life and constant partner in every chapter of his journey. He leaves behind his one and only son, Wayland Alexander “AJ” Whittinghill IV, whom he was endlessly proud of, and his cherished daughter-in-law, Barb, whom he truly considered a daughter. Alex also adored his precious step-daughter, Eryka Alexis Beaver, and found great joy in watching her grow and thrive.

Alex’s faithful dog, Okie, was never far from his side and brought him daily companionship, laughter, and comfort. Their bond was a special one, and Okie was truly part of the family.

An avid outdoorsman, Alex found peace and adventure in nature. Whether he was hunting the elusive “prize buck” each fall in Wirt County, West Virginia, or fishing for world-class walleye in the hot spots of Lake Erie, he was happiest outdoors. He had a lifelong curiosity and a passion for learning new skills, including wood carving, fish taxidermy, winemaking, gardening, meat curing, and most recently, perfecting the art of sourdough bread baking. He was also rarely seen without his beloved red solo cup in hand, happily enjoying just about any drink from it at any time of day — a small but unforgettable signature of who he was.

Alex dedicated much of his career to the oil and gas industry, spending 22 years with Mountaineer Gas in Charleston, West Virginia, and eight years with U.S. Energy Development Corporation in Buffalo, New York. He recently celebrated his fourth year working what he happily called his ideal “retirement gig” with St. James Marina in Southport, North Carolina.

Known affectionately by many as “Skillet Head, “Big Al” or “Big Daddy,” Alex truly lived up to those names with his larger-than-life personality, generous spirit, and boundless love for others. He built lasting friendships wherever life took him and leaves behind cherished family and dear friends across West Virginia, Western New York, and Oak Island, North Carolina, along with countless memories of laughter, adventure, and love that will continue to live on through those who knew him.

A memorial service with prayer will be held Saturday, January 17th at 11:00 a.m. at Peacock, Newnam & White Funeral Home, 1411 N. Howe Street, Southport, NC 28461. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in April 2026, with additional details to follow.

Memorial contributions in Alex's name may be made to Whitetails Unlimited at https://www.whitetailsunlimited.com/donate/

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.