Rev. Doris Arnett Whitaker

The Reverend Doris Arnett Whitaker, age 59, of Dayton, Ohio, passed away of natural causes on Friday, June 5, 2015 at home. She was born September 13, 1955 to the late Richard and Rosalie Arnett of Arcanum, Ohio. Surviving are her husband Jeff Whitaker, sister Brenda Arnett, step-sons Bryan (Anne Johnson) Whitaker and Kevin (Sarah McCord) Whitaker, in-laws Jim and Faye Whitaker, aunt Beth (Dave) Flora, uncle Rev. Tom Julien, numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her parents and her brothers Jan and Kent.

An ordained Presbyterian minister, Doris faithfully and lovingly served the Presbytery of the Miami Valley for 13 years as the Stated Clerk and at various congregations in the Dayton area since 1993. Doris has served as the pastor of Bath Presbyterian Church in Dayton, Ohio since 2014.

Born and raised in a faithful family, Doris’ calling to serve blossomed at an early age. Upon graduation from Arcanum High School in 1974, she enrolled at Indiana Central University where she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing in 1978. After 15 years as a Registered Nurse, Doris’ love for mission and outreach called her to attend the United Theological Seminary where she earned her Master of Divinity.

Doris was very grateful for her family, friends, colleagues, and pets. When she wasn’t spending her time in the office or in church, she was a voracious reader, avid viewer of British comedies and mysteries, and had an obsession for making lists. Doris also enjoyed researching her family history. At every opportunity, she and her husband enjoyed traveling to historical places and sites where her ancestors were known to be.

She loved her church, her husband and more people than normal because of her great spirit. Doris was an advocate for Human Rights and loved unconditionally. She touched countless lives throughout her life, and her loss will be felt by many. May God receive her with thanksgiving and joy.

There will be a celebration of her life on June 20, 2015 at 11 a.m. at Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church, 4417 Bigger Road in Kettering

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to your favorite charity.