Darwin Arthur Whitehead

Darwin Whitehead, 95, of Circleville, OH passed away Monday, August 3, 2026 at the Pickering House in Lancaster, OH. He was born November 14, 1930 in Rock Royal, NY, the son of Lawrence and Ethel (Backus) Whitehead. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Rose (Doria); his parents; his brothers, Arnold and Warren Whitehead; and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Darwin was a member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church where he served in many positions. He was active in the Knights of Columbus for decades, holding roles of distinction including Grand Knight, District Deputy, and Faithful Navigator.

A proud member of the United States Air Force, Darwin served his country for 23 years. Upon his retirement, he began a long and illustrious career in education. Darwin worked as a teacher and coach before moving his family to Circleville where he was an administrator for many years in Circleville City Schools.

Darwin was an avid gardener and bee keeper. He never hesitated to share the fruits of his labor with his family and friends. He also enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles and traveling. Through his love of the English language, he amused others with his own lingo affectionately known as “Darwinese”. One of Darwin’s greatest pleasures was spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and cheering them on at their sporting, musical, and theatrical events.

Darwin is survived by his children, Daniel (Hilda) Whitehead of Bellevue, NE, David (Mitzi) Whitehead of Mustang, OK, Denise (Jim) Cordle and Steve (Lisa) Whitehead, both of Lancaster, OH, and Kathryn (Jeff) Reams of Circleville, OH; 9 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Duane (Georgiana) Whitehead; sisters, Kathryn Boorom and Hilda Stope; and brother-in-law Larry Thomas.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM. Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 134 W. Mound St., Circleville with Fr. Ramon Owera, Celebrant. Burial will be in Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Circleville. Friends may call from 4:00-7:00 PM, Tuesday August 11, 2026 at Defenbaugh-Wise-Schoedinger Funeral Home, 151 E. Main St., Circleville, OH 43113, with Rosary Service at 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fairhope Hospice, 282 Sells Rd. Lancaster, OH 43130 or to the Chillicothe VA Medical Center, in memory of Darwin Whitehead, 17273 OH-104, Chillicothe, OH 45601. Darwin’s family extends their sincere gratitude to the compassionate and caring staff at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center, Fairfield Medical Center and the Pickering House.