Richard Dick Lewis Whitton

Richard L Whitton, age 85, went home to be with the Lord on May 15, 2015. Richard was born in New Castle, Indiana to Florence and Lewis Whitton on January 5, 1930. Richard graduated from Ball State University in 1953 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. During his college years, he was a member of the Kappa Delta Pi Fraternity (National Educational Honorary), the Pi Omega Pi (Business Education Fraternity), and the Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity (National Service Fraternity). In addition, he was President of two social Fraternities, the Navajo Fraternity and the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity.

In 1953, Richard joined the US Air Force where he served as an Aircraft Controller and Assistant Operations Officer until 1955. He was stationed in Cut Bank, MT. It was in Cut Bank that Richard met the love of his life, Freddie Jo Knight, and they were married on September 10, 1955. After leaving the US Air Force in October, 1955, Richard started his civilian career with Carter Oil Company, now known as Exxon company, and he and Freddie Jo relocated to Tulsa, Oklahoma.

During his career at Exxon, Richard graduated from the University of Tulsa with a Law Degree, in 1960. He was involved in Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity and the Junior Chamber of Commerce. While in Tulsa, Richard and Freddie Jo also welcomed sons Ricky and Greg. Then in 1963, the family relocated and eventually settled in Houston, TX. Richard retired from Exxon in 1985. He then started his volunteer career for his beloved wife, Freddie Jo, as an antique carpenter, craftsman, repairman, professional packer, driver and CFO.

Richard mastered many skills and he could fix anything. He was always available to help with any matter, whether it be financial, legal, mechanical, woodworking, whatever. He was a hero to many, as well as a true example of genuine love to family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Florence Whitton, his beloved wife, Freddie Jo, and his sisters, Betty Tucker and Martha Cross. Richard is survived by his two sons, Richard F Whitton and Gregory L Whitton-Cornelius and husband, Skyler Whitton-Cornelius.