James Perry Whitten

James Perry Whitten, son of Perry Monroe Whitten and Virginia Wallace Whitten Greaves, departed this life on January 29, 2020 to begin the eternal voyage of the spirit in heaven. James ("Jim") was born March 13, 1941, in Dallas, Texas. He was educated at: Elementary- Obadiah Knight; Junior High- Thomas J. Rusk; High School – North Dallas. After High School, Jim continued his education at North Texas State College, Denton, TX; Wharton County Junior College (A.A. Degree), Wharton, TX; Trinity University, San Antonio, TX, ( BS and Med Degrees). After graduation from Trinity University, 1965, Jim entered the U.S. Navy and was commissioned as Ensign, U.S. Naval Reserve. He served aboard submarines assigned to the Pacific Fleet, stationed out of San Diego, CA, and separated from the submarine service in November 1969. In August 1966, Jim married Sally Ann Lanyon at the First Presbyterian Church, Oklahoma City, OK. Jim retired from the U.S. Naval Reserve in September 1993 with the rank of Commander. Settling in Oklahoma City in 1969, Jim became an independent insurance agent and worked until his retirement in November 2014. For many years, Jim was involved as a volunteer in the church, volunteer with the Arts Council of OKC, and the local Homeowner's Association. From 2004-2018, Jim was a Board of Directors member, and Treasurer, for the Oklahoma Military Heritage Foundation/ Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame. Jim is survived by his wife, Sally, of the home; daughter, Laura Rizzo and her husband, Eric Rizzo; grandchildren, Eric George Rizzo, Jr., Lanyon Gail Rizzo, and Casale James Rizzo. Laura and her family live in Alexandria, Virginia. Memorial Service to Celebrate Jim's life will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2020 at 3pm at Smith & Kernke North May Chapel.