Jennings Withers
1921-09-10 2011-12-24Mills Home Baptist Church service for Jennings Withers
Mr. Jennings Walter Harpo Withers was born in Iredell County on September 10, 1921. He passed from death unto life on December 24, 2011 at the age of ninety years. Mr. Withers was a World War II veteran who served in the Army Air Force. He was married to the former Marilyn Yates Withers, who passed away in 2001. He began a forty year educational career in Greensboro, and then came to Mills Home in Thomasville as Athletic Director in 1954. He retired from Thomasville City Schools in 1986, having served as a teacher, coach, and principal. He was a lifetime mentor and model for many young men who he cherished. A highly decorated athletic and coach, he received his most precious honor by submitting to the Lordship and saving grave of Jesus Christ. He loved life and he loved people. He ran his race well and finished strong in his own home with resolve and dignity. He was loved by many. He is survived are a brother, Billy Joe Withers of Greensboro, NC; two sons, Mike Withers and wife Carolyn of Mt. Olive, N.C. and Pat Withers and wife Jane of Thomasville; five grandchildren, Jennifer and Cameron, Shane, Erin, and Jeremy; and eight great-grandchildren, Caleb, Caroline, and Ella (Due in March) and Stone, Dylan, Kaitlyn, Eli and Judah. His family wishes to also to recognize his lifelong friend, the former Ann Harris, who gave his life purpose for many years. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at 1 P.M. in Mills Home Baptist Church, with Pastor Pat Withers officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. The family request any memorial contributions be made to Hospice of Davidson County, 200 Hospice Way, Lexington, N.C. 27292. J.C. Green & Sons Funeral Home is assisting the family and on-line condolences may be sent to the Withers family at www.jcgreenandsons.com.
A "celebration of Life" held today at Mills Home Baptist Church for our Coach & Teacher Jennings Withers. It was a day of sorrow but mostly what was heard and seen were memories of a life well lived and many words of respect and love. I did get to speak a bit to Mike & also Pat Withers, Pat remembered me from MH and the Track team at Thomasville High. Also Bobby Lee was there and we spoke of Mr. Withers and Mills Home days gone by. Towards the end of the service a lone man who had been sitting in the choir loft stood and sang a beautiful very 'touching' song; it even turned my eyes a bit misty. I have posted that song below and it sounds very much the beautiful sound I heard today. Jennings Withers a good man of service who will be remembered by many..... Song below; "I will keep trusting You"I Will Keep Trusting You - Randy Armentroutwww.youtube.com
tribute by Harry WallsTo Pat and all the family,His time here was long, his impact huge, his departure leaves a huge void. Let the memories fill the void as best they can. Celebrate his time and accomplishments here. I was fortunate enough to have Mr. Witers for a teacher in Junior High School for math and PE. He was "the man" he projected the image all young men want to be know for. Extra sharp dresser, chizzled but compassionate face. Last I saw him, how dignified he was. I could go on, but you get the picture. I was fortunate enough to have multiple teachers influence my life at such a formidable age, but Mr. Withers was clearly a standout. His character and wisdom fit his personna in every way. He carried that all his time here on earth. How fortunate Thomasville is to have such a man for so long a time. I am sorry that I didn't get to attend his memorial service, I was at another in town that day, Sonny Hepler also passed during Christmas and both services were at the same time.God be with you.Gary
tribute by Gary Sink