Delbert Leslie Whittington Jr.

He attended Dunbar School, where he earned his high school diploma, and later moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, in the late 1960s. Delbert studied at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas before continuing his education at the Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Trade School. He began his career as a pipefitter with the United Association Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 525. In 1978, he joined the Nevada Test Site, where he worked until his retirement in 2005.

Delbert married Elulia Logan in 1975, and together they had two children, Delbert III and Geneva. In 1988, he married Debra Buckles-Turner and welcomed a bonus son, Anthony Ducksworth.

Del enjoyed bowling, golf, dominoes, cards, and bingo. His true passion was fishing and being chauffeured by his grandson Lawson. He shared a unique bond with each of his grandchildren. He also had a love for children and volunteered as a youth coach for baseball and bowling. On the day before any holiday, Del could be found early in the morning cooking his famous BBQ ribs, bacon-wrapped chicken, shrimp, or anything that could be grilled or smoked. If it involved fire and flavor, he was the one to handle it.

Though not always expressive with words, Del had a generous heart and made people feel welcome. If you spent time with him, you likely walked away with a good story and a laugh.

On Saturday, July 5, 2025, Delbert passed away peacefully with his wife, sons, and daughters-in-law by his side.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Debra Whittington; his son Delbert Whittington III and wife Dana; his daughter Geneva Whittington; and his son Anthony Ducksworth and wife Rachel. He also leaves behind grandchildren Logan, Lawson, and Londyn Whittington. In 2017, he welcomed five more bonus grandchildren: Lena, Autumn, Zion, E'Dric Jr. (EJ), and Rayden, whom he lovingly called Raylen. Del also leaves behind a sister-in-law Betty Rodoson, a brother-in-law Michael Buckles, aunts, uncles, cousins, many dear friends, and his cat, Cinderella.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal."

A visitation for Delbert will be held Wednesday, July 23, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Palm Mortuary - Downtown, 1325 North Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101. A funeral service will occur Thursday, July 24, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Wealthy Place Ministries, 902 W Owens Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89106. A committal service will occur Thursday, July 24, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Palm Downtown Mortuary & Cemetery, 1325 N Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101.