Terry James Whitaker's Obituary
Terry James “TJ” Whitaker, born November 21, 1953, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026 at the age of 72.
TJ is survived by his beloved wife and ‘partner-in-mischief’ of 53 years, Pamela Whitaker, his sister Mary Davis, his son Cory Whitaker (Jessica), and grandchildren Ava, Max and Caleb. TJ adored his grandchildren and took great joy in their presence and in watching them grow.
He attended Newark High School, followed by Spring Arbor College in Michigan, then Denison University and finally Franklin University in Columbus, leading into his career as an electrical engineer. He was a kind, giving and deeply spiritual man, beloved by his family and friends for his giving, jovial and loving nature. TJ battled lifelong medical issues with grace and strength, always thinking of others before himself and quietly, selflessly weathering his struggles until the day he was called away from us.
He was preceded in passing by his father, James Whitaker, mother Ella (Ellington) Whitaker, and stepmother Olive (Bolander) Whitaker.
TJ was a genuinely good man, a loving father and grandfather, and a friend to anyone he met. We will miss him deeply and while we mourn his loss, we celebrate the indescribable gift of having had him in our lives.
Memorial Service will be held at New Life Church, 3690 N Stygler Rd, Gahanna OH 43230 on Saturday, March 7, with visitation from 1-2pm, Memorial Service from 2-3pm and Reception in the Church Cafe from 3-4.
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