Carolyn Jean Whittaker

Carolyn J. Whittaker, 86, known as “Jean” to her friends, passed away on April 30, 2023, after a long illness. She was born on April 3, 1937 to the late Robert and Carmella Ridgewell in Rhode Island.

Jean was a substitute teacher for Virginia Beach City Public Schools for many years. She grew up in Warwick, Rhode Island and attended Gorton High School where she was the Drum Majorette for the high school band. Jean worked for Eastern Airlines when she was younger where she developed her love for traveling, especially to Italy. She also loved art history, music, singing, cooking, gardening, dancing, her grandkids and many other activities.

She is survived by her daughters, Lori Watts of Machipongo, VA and Sandra Finch of Virginia Beach, VA. She is also survived by her sister Eleanor Nardolillo of Warwick, Rhode Island and by her younger brother James Ridgewell of Daytona Beach, Florida, and by grandchildren Carolyn and James Hanan and Gabby and Garrett Finch.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.smithandwilliamskempsville.com for the Whittaker family.