James Franklin Whitaker

James Franklin Whitaker, age 88, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, departed this life peacefully on May 23, 2026.

Born on July 22, 1937, in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, James was the son of Elijah and Hattie Whitaker. He was educated at McNair School in Belzoni, Mississippi, where he developed the strong values of faith, perseverance, and hard work that would guide him throughout his life.

James dedicated many years of service as a machinist at Zenith, where he was respected for his craftsmanship, dependability, and strong work ethic. Beyond his career, he was known for his kind spirit, gentle demeanor, and unwavering love for family and friends.

One of James’s greatest joys was gardening. He found peace and fulfillment in nurturing flowers, plants, and vegetables, creating beauty wherever he planted. His garden was a reflection of his life—carefully tended, fruitful, and a blessing to those around him.

James leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Ruby Whitaker; his daughter, Felisetas (Milton); bonus children, Brenda, Carmen, Cynthia, and Charles (Sharon); grandchildren, Anthony, Malcolm (Dorothea), Mark (Tsedey), Mario (Jessica), Erika, James III, Keenen (Alexandra), David (NaKosha), Christina, Ryan, Alex (Annelisa), Tiffanie (Rudy), Prince, Kevin, Fred, Cory, Latrice, Julien, Lavell, Sharniece, and Shamika; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his siblings, Roosevelt Whitaker (Mamie Jean), Elijah Whitaker (Kimberly), Joseph Whitaker (Mary), Larry Whitaker (Kelly), Eddie Whitaker, Mary Johnson, Betty Farris, and Emily Knoxx, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Elijah and Hattie Whitaker; his daughter, Myra; his son, James Whitaker Jr. (Karen); his sisters, Thelma Whitaker, Martha Whitaker, and Rodella Whitaker; and his brothers, Willie Belafonte and Johnny Whitaker.

James will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, quiet strength, and the love he shared with everyone he met. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the countless lives he touched.

Though he is no longer with us, his gentle spirit, warm smile, and unwavering love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Matthew 25:23

Funeral Services to take place on Friday, June 12, 2026 with visitation from  10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and service to follow at 12:00 PM, at Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Interment in Graceland Cemetery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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