Richard Vernon (Rick) Whittle, aged 63, passed away peacefully at his home on July 22, 2023 surrounded by his wife and family. Rick was a native and lifelong resident of Mobile, Alabama. Rick was a graduate of Mobile Christian School and received his bachelor's degree at the University of South Alabama. He was a high school coach for 25 years and a pulpit minister for 21 years. He also served as an elder at the Spanish Fort church of Christ.
Rick was a dedicated husband and father, a mentor, a friend, a missionary, and a host of other titles. But above all, he was a good and faithful servant of our Lord and Creator. Rick's life was spent in service to others, pouring himself into his family and community, as well as abroad through programs such as Growing Faithful Children. His love for God permeated every aspect of his life, and he touched so many lives with his teaching, his humor, and his love.
For many he was a friend closer than a brother. For others, an instructor in church pews and on football fields. And for a select few, he was husband and father and son and brother and, most recently, grandfather. His love for people was unmatched. Yet ultimately, his heart belonged to Christ's church, and from that commitment he led his days as a living sacrifice.
He showed others Jesus in unique ways, from his coaching to his preaching, and he left no soul untouched with his words and his care. He will be remembered for his kindness, his passion, his perseverance, and his love.
Rick was preceded in death by his father, Julius Vernon Whittle. He is survived by his mother Geraldine Burkett Whittle, his wife of 39 years, Barbara Parenteau Whittle; his children, Eric Joseph Whittle (Andrea), Erin Whittle Moody (Michael), and his granddaughter Mary Elizabeth Moody; his sister Jennifer Whittle Aubrey (Tom); and nieces and nephews.
February 2, 1960 — July 22, 2023
The family will receive friends from 1:30 pm until 2:30 pm on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at Mobile Christian School. 5900 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile, Alabama 36609. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 pm.
So very sorry to hear this 🌹
His family and mine went to church together when I was growing up..
fond memories of “Ricky & Jennifer and Mr. Julius & Ms. Gerrie ”
Sincere condolences to the family 🌹
I knew Rick from church "area-wide" events and our Summer Series at Scenic Hills. He always brought a smile and a booming voice to share the Word of God. He will be missed by so many, for so many different reasons... like it should be. Prayers of peace for the family.
I will always remember Rick as man that loved to laugh and cut up with all of us youth at Central during his time as our youth minister. He taught us that you can have fun and still be an faithful child of God. You will be missed by everyone.
Our deepest condolences to the family. You all are in our prayers for strength, comfort and guidance.
I am sorry he is no longer with us but,he is with Jesus which is much better. I had not seen him for years, but have always remembe him from my time at MCS. His coaching and chapel talks were a part of my everyday life for 5 years. I cherish those memories.