Jimmy's Journey

Jimmy Lee Whitehead Sr. began his earthly journey on August 1, 1957 in Freeport, Illinois.   He was the seventh child born to Annie Carrie (Williams) and George Marvin Whitehead Sr.

Jimmy attended Taylor Park Elementary School and graduated from Freeport High School in 1975.  Following graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy and completed basic training at Great Lakes Naval Base.

Jimmy was employed for 20 years as plant manager for Veal Tech in DeKalb, Illinois.  After relocating to Lacrosse Wisconsin, he was employed by Trans Company.

Fondly known as "Gee", Jimmy will be remembered for his quick wit and "the gift of gab."  Jimmy's pastime included spending time with his family and watching sports, especially basketball. He loved the game.   He was called "Magic" on the courts because of his outstanding basketball skills.  Jimmy had an opportunity to play pro basketball, but turned the offer down.

"One of the best storytellers with the gift to gab. . .  When you listened to him speak you felt you were right there with him.  No filter, straight shooter.  You always knew where you stood with him, the jump from half court, nothing but net all day like a layup." ~ Evan Whitehead

After a long courageous battle with several illness and challenges, Jimmy's earthly journey ended July 20, 2020 at the Monroe Clinic Hospital in Monroe, WI.  Jimmy heard a voice say, " you are tired my son, you can come home now." After a long, hard fight, God allowed him to rest.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, George Marvin and Annie Carrie Whitehead, son Jimmie Terrell Whitehead, brothers, Charles Whitehead, Jerry Whitehead, and sister Bessie Whitehead,  paternal grandparents Nathan and Sarah Whitehead, maternal grandparents, Jimmie C. Liggins and Rev. O.T. Williams.

He leaves to celebrate his life and cherish his memory; 3 sons Jimmy Lee (Ashley Sykora) Whitehead, Jr. , Blane, MN, DeAngelo (Apple Mayes) Woodall, Buford , GA, and Jarvis Felton, Rockford,IL. Daughter Kesia Tyson, Lacrosse WS, eleven grandchildren, Sisters: Betty Carroll, Sarah Stacy, both of Freeport, IL.  Sharon Taylor, Peoria, IL and Ramona (Joewillie) Fair, Rockford, IL.  Brothers: Rev. George (Frances) Whitehead, Palatine, IL and Bishop David L. Whitehead, Freeport, IL., a special friend and ex-wife Odessa Whitehead, Lacrosse, WI. In addition, Jimmy leaves to cherish his memory, numerous nieces, nephews, cousin and friends.

A special thanks to his friend Cheyenne Cotey and her family for the compassionate care given to Jimmy during his illness.  Also to the Monroe ambulance crew, the Emergency room staff and the cardiologist and cath lab specialists.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday August 1, 2020 at 12 noon, with a walk-thru visitation at 11 AM, at the Schwarz Park Blvd. Chapel, 608 S. Park Blvd. in Freeport, IL