Bartley Lewis Whitaker

Bartley Lewis Whitaker, 84, of St. Simons Island, GA passed away suddenly on February 10th, 2023 after a difficult battle with dementia and other recent health issues. Bart as he was universally known, is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Ellen, their two sons, Lee (Laura) and Brett (Anne Marie), and four wonderful grandchildren, Grant, Meredith, Madeleine, and Bridget. He is also survived by his fraternal twin, Bob, and youngest brother, Ron, along with several sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many, many dear friends.

Bart was born on May 21st, 1938, to Robert and Eleanor Whitaker in Philadelphia, PA. After graduating from Collingdale High School in 1956, he went on to study Economics at the College of Wooster, in Ohio. While there, he lettered in football and graduated with a B.A. in Economics in 1960. He then went on to earn a Master's in Business Administration from Emory University in 1961.

After graduation, he joined the United States Navy where he proudly served as a Lieutenant on the USS Somers (DD947) and finished his service teaching business classes to the midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy.

Following his service, Bart began his first (and only) career in sales for International Business Machines (IBM), which kickstarted a successful 36-year career with IBM. During his tenure, he was frequently named to the IBM 100% Club as well as the Golden Circle for his outstanding sales performance.

In 1966, Bart met Ellen while at IBM in Philadelphia, PA. They fell in love almost instantly and were lifelong companions. Bart and Ellen married and initially settled in the suburbs of Philadelphia (West Chester and Exton) where they raised their two sons Lee and Brett. Upon Bart’s retirement from IBM, they relocated to St. Simons Island, GA where they still reside today.

Bart was known as a very loyal and strong-willed friend to many. He was a passionate fan of the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles along with the Nittany Lions of Penn State. Within the family, Dad is also remembered for “knowing” when the game was over for his beloved teams, many times just minutes into the game! His sons remember listening to many Phillies and Eagles comeback victories from the family car, as they exited the stadium early “to beat the traffic.”

In later years, Bart reveled in following the various sporting events that his grandchildren all participated in. He would often ask for updates on the latest baseball, soccer, volleyball, or basketball accomplishments but always made it a point to make sure they were also keeping up with their academics which he truly valued even more.

Bart was an avid golfer who could be found on his home course during his time off, chasing the little white ball around. He also truly loved his time spent “down the shore” with the family in Brigantine, NJ. He loved sitting on the beach with his toes in the sand and a good paperback in his giant hands. There may have been beer(s) nearby as well.

Anyone who knew Bart knew that he was a loving grandfather, father, and spouse. Bart was predeceased by his mother, Eleanor, and his father Robert.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation in Bart’s name be made to either The Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy (www.foundationforpn.org) or The Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org). There will be a celebration of life on Friday, February 17th, 2023 from 10 am – 12 pm at Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home, 3321 Glynn Avenue, Brunswick, GA 31520.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.edomillerandsons.com for the Whitaker family.