Mr. Donald Ray Whitten

Donald Ray Whitten passed away on June 23, 2015, at the age of 62, surrounded by his family. He was born on September 12, 1952 in Amarillo, Texas to JB and Joyce (Sons) Whitten. He graduated from Parkland High School in El Paso, Texas, went to El Paso Community College and graduated as a Licensed Vocational Nurse. He lived many years near Midland, Texas, before moving to Houston in December of 1988.

He was Director of Projects for Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation since November of 1999. He loved to laugh, travel with his wife, spend time with his family, read, and send political emails to share a smile. He was a mentor to many, always had a ‘can do’ attitude, and was full of useless facts. He will be remembered by many including his wife of 22 years, Wanda, his daughters and sons-in-law, Tania and John, Mindi and Ryan, and Sasha and Shaun. He was adored as ‘Papa’ by his nine grandchildren: Thomas, Kyle, Kayli, Graci, Sam, Peyton, Tysen, Kinley, and Jack. His siblings, James, Paula, Pat and Rhonda, survive him, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. His mother, father, and sister, Carolyn, precede him in death.

He cherished his strong Christian heritage begun by his grandparents, James T. and Lola B., and carried on by his father, and uncles, Bob, Ken, Daryl, and Doyce. His faith lives on in his children and grandchildren.

Visitation will be at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, Texas 77039, Thursday, from 6 to 8 pm. Services will be on Friday, June 26, at 11 am in The Grand Chapel.