Martha Jane Whitaker

Martha Jane Whitaker, 85, of Cookeville, TN, passed away on September 24, 2016 in Sparta. A memorial service will be held at 12:00pm on Saturday, October 1, 2016 at First Presbyterian Church of Cookeville, TN. Visitation will precede the service from 11:00am-12:00pm. Born on March 5, 1931in Durham, NC to Eric Clyde Johnson and Annie Bagwell Johnson, Martha Jane graduated with the Durham High School class of 1949. From her earliest years, Martha Jane was a lifelong advocate of education and reading. Even as a teenager, she regularly volunteered in programs that brought books and literacy to the poor of rural North Carolina. Always an outstanding and enthusiastic student, she received a full scholarship to attend the teaching program at "WC" (Woman's College of the University of North Carolina – now the University of North Carolina at Greensboro). In 1952, she took the courageous step of leaving her hometown and traveling halfway around the world to Honolulu, HI, where she was married to her high school sweetheart, Faison Young "Whit" Whitaker, on September 4. There, she continued her drive toward teaching, proudly graduating from the University of Hawaii with a degree in education. Returning to the mainland and never afraid of new adventures, the new couple would find themselves in New Jersey, North Carolina and, later, Nevada. In each city along the way, Martha Jane devoted herself to her calling, patiently and passionately shaping young minds in the classroom – including those of her own two children. In 1973, joining with her longtime friend Margaret Wruble, Martha Jane launched an independent day school / preschool in Las Vegas. For the next 16 years as Director, Martha Jane would motivate and lead her students and staff. Today, All Saints Day School continues to thrive with the principles and mission that Martha Jane established nearly 44 years ago. After retiring, Martha Jane and Whit moved to Cookeville, TN where they found the more intimate small town life they had enjoyed in their youth. Also, with a lifelong enthusiasm for old cars, Martha Jane and Whit were also members of several car clubs. Never one to rest, Martha Jane continued her passion for education and children. She regularly volunteered at Sunday School and at the Putnam County Library, and she was an active and enthusiastic member the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO). Those who knew Martha Jane will remember her for her graciousness, her patience and her unfailing kindness, always ready to celebrate the lives and accomplishments of others. An eternal optimist, she always had a compliment and an encouraging word for her family, her friends, and everyone she met. We know that Martha Jane is patiently waiting for her loved ones to join her, with a welcoming smile, an encouraging word…and a plate of slightly burnt cookies. Martha Jane is survived by her soulmate and husband of 64 years, Whit Whitaker; daughter and son-in-law, Beth and George Wood, her son, Eric Whitaker; grandchildren Chris Whitaker; Michelle Fairfield, and James Fairfield; along with an extended family of nieces, nephews and step-great-grandchildren, all of whom are grateful for her love, her patience and her compassion. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Putnam County Library, 50 East Broad St., Cookeville, TN 38501. The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the caring staff at LifeCare Center of Sparta, and to the medical and hospice staff who tended to Martha Jane in the last days of her life. Arrangements are being made by Hooper, Huddleston, and Horner Funeral Home (931)526-6111. You may share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com