JB served from 1944 to 1946 in the 40th Division of the 108 Regiment of the US Army Infantry during WWII where he was stationed in the Philippine Islands. After that he served in the 20th Infantry of the 6th Division in the Korean Sector. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star and Bronze Arrowhead among other decorations.
After returning from the war, he moved to Grand Prairie, TX with his wife of 56 years, Mabel Capps Whitwell and their three children Mike, Lydia and Bob who passed in 2004. JB proudly worked as an Auto Mechanic, Master Machinist and Tool and Die Maker until he retired. After Mabel’s death he met and married Darlene.
JB is survived by his wife Darlene Whitwell; son Mike (Judy) Whitwell; daughter Lydia Keasler; daughter-in-law Debbie Whitwell; grandson Jason (Stephanie) Whitwell; granddaughter Brandy Whitwell; great grandchildren Nathan, Hailey, Emily and Madison; sister Marie Laine; and a host of family and friends.
