Joseph D. Whedbee

Joseph Whedbee, a beloved Professor Emeritus of Mathematics at the Community College of Baltimore, passed away peacefully in his home in Cockeysville, Maryland, on June 16, 2025. Born on July 16, 1950, in Denver, Colorado, to James Simpson Whedbee and Nina Noble Whedbee, Joe spent his early years on a small farm north of Baltimore after the family relocated from Colorado.

Joe was one of five siblings, including James Whedbee of New York City, Father Dominic Whedbee of St. Joseph’s Abbey in Spencer, Massachusetts, Peter Whedbee of Arvada, Colorado, and the late Mary Whedbee Giftos. His siblings and their wives Susan Whedbee of New York City and Nadine Whedbee of Arvada, Colorado, remember him as a kind-hearted, insightful, and endlessly curious individual who cherished family and community.

Joe was beloved uncle to Marc Christopher Whedbee of Ridgewood, New Jersey, Peter Michael Giftos Jr. of Charlotte, North Carolina, Aileen O’Malley Fusinaz of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, John Noble Giftos of Tallahassee, Florida, Nina Mary Hawks Morris of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, Barbara James (Jamie) Whedbee Barents of Berryville, Virginia, Brook Pessin-Whedbee of Oakland, California, Nina Pessin-Whedbee of Oakland, California, Courtney Maruyama Lateer of N. Potomac, Maryland, and James Toshio Whedbee of Deerfield, Illinois.

As a professor, Joe dedicated his career to inspiring students with his passion for mathematics and his unwavering commitment to their success. He was not only admired for his profound knowledge but also for his approachable and encouraging teaching style. Former students fondly recall his patience, sense of humor, and the genuine care he extended to everyone in his classroom. He was known for making challenging concepts feel accessible and for cultivating a supportive learning environment.

Outside the classroom, Joe was a cherished member of the Cockeysville community and an avid golfer. Known for his warmth and friendliness, he would often be seen engaging with friends, sharing stories, playing golf, and offering help to those in need. His presence brought light to the lives of those around him, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Joe’s legacy is one of dedication, kindness, and a lifelong commitment to education and community service. His influence will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Joe’s viewing will be held on Tuesday, June 24 from 3 to 7 PM and a memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 25 at 10 AM at Lemmon Funeral Home of Dulaney Valley at 10 West Padonia Road (at York Road), Timonium, Maryland, where friends, family, colleagues, and former students are invited to gather and celebrate Joe’s remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Community College of Baltimore County in his honor.

To donate online please visit https://foundation.ccbcmd.edu/g/in-memory-of-joseph-d-j-whedbee Donations by checks can be made to: Community College of Baltimore County, Development & Alumni Relations, 7200 Sollers Point Road, Baltimore, MD 21222

Rest in peace, Joe. Your wisdom and kindness have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.