Kenneth "David" Whitworth Sr.

David (as he is known by family and friends) was blessed by God with a brilliant mind. Several of David’s inventions have been used in manufacturing companies across the world. He was a research and development manager for Burlington Mills for 40 years, worked in management consulting for Henderson, Lindsay and Michaels Inc., and started textile plants in North Carolina and South Carolina throughout his career in textiles.

A native of McAdenville, NC, David was an alumnus of Holbrook High School, Belmont Textile School, Gaston College, and Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College.

Known for his gentle spirit and compassionate heart, David’s commitment to community is evidenced through his service as a volunteer firefighter and a lifeguard. He earned the distinction of Eagle Scout and went on to serve our nation for six years in the US Army, achieving the rank of Spec 4.

David was married to his loving wife, Loretta Wright (née) Whitworth, for 61 years. They have two children. Their daughter Melody Whitworth (née) Bell and her husband, Pat, reside in, Aiken, SC. Son Kenneth David Whitworth Jr., resides in McAdenville, NC. David’s wife, Loretta, also resides in McAdenville, NC. One of the brightest lights in David’s life will always be his grandson, Mark David Pitts, of Aiken, SC.

On earth, David has a brother [The Rev. Dwight (wife, Debra) Whitworth, of Johnson City, TN], a sister [Devron Whitworth (née) Harvey, of Gastonia, NC], and several nieces, nephews, aunts, and cousins. He is now reunited in heaven with his parents (John and Lanie Whitworth), his brothers (John Wayne Whitworth and Lavon Whitworth), and his sister (Beverly J. Bundy), along with grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

David and his wife attended First Baptist Church, Charlotte, NC. David enjoyed golf and fishing but enjoyed nothing better than spending time with his grandson.

While David’s family would appreciate flowers, they prefer that you honor David’s life through gifts in his memory to the Levine Cancer Institute.

Fond memories of David and condolences for the family may be left at www.carothersfuneralhomegastonia.com.

Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park is honored to serve the Whitworth Family.