James Ronald Whitley's Obituary
James Ronald Whitley, 89, of Tampa, passed away on Monday, September 1, 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.
Ronald led a very interesting life. He worked as a systems engineer with IBM for 26 years; he was also a flight instructor and bush pilot in Alaska. He taught English as a second language, as well as teaching citizenship for immigrants. Ron also proudly served his country in the US Army Reserves, retiring as a Colonel. Ron was a member of Tampa Bay Presbyterian Church and was active in the choir.
Ron enjoyed so many good things in life, traveling, flying, sailing (he and his family even built their own sailboat), and spending time with friends. More than anything else, Ron was a family man who married the love of his life, Esther Evans; they were high school sweethearts. They were married for sixty-eight years and built their life together, raised children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, James Reese Whitley and Alma Brown Whitley Tedrow, and their youngest daughter, Susan Whitley DePatie, and by his younger brother, Don C. Whitley, and his son-in-law, Jimmy Cassady.
Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Esther; their children, Stephanie Whitley-Powell, son-in-law, Cliff Powell; Lori Whitley Cassady, and son, Jeffrey B. Whitley; by grandchildren, Caitlin Cassady (Robert) DeSantis, Kyle (Kelsey Stirling) Cassady, Ethan (Michelle) Powell, Garrett M. Powell, Meredith Powell (Benjamin) Trull; 4 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Bruce W. (Linda) Whitley.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Sunday, September 7th, 2:00 pm, at Sunset Funeral Home, with funeral services conducted at 3:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home, and entombment to follow at Sunset Memory Gardens, 11005 N US Hwy 301, Thonotosassa, FL. There will be refreshments afterward.
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