Edward Levy Whitner

The Orlando Sentinel, 11/6/2008

WHITNER, EDWARD LEVY 92, of Melbourne, FL, passed away Monday, October 27, 2008 at the Royal Oaks Nursing Home in Titusville, FL. Mr. Whitner was born October 28, 1916 in Birmingham, AL, and was the son of the late Austin and Marie Edwards Whitner.

He was one of the oldest living major league ballplayers having been a former first baseman for 19 years from 1937 to 1955. He played three years in college and three in the Major Leagues with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1940 and the New York Yankees in 1942 and 1944.

His major league play was interrupted while he served with the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. After his service to our country, he was a player/manager in the Minors from 1946 to 1955.

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Ned and Jane Whitner of Melbourne Beach, FL; two daughters and sons-in-law, Kit and Murray Newlin of Columbus and Nan and Jerry Clark of San Diego, CA; a sister, Jean Coleman of Cartersville; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and a nephew and his wife, John and Diana Coleman.

Memorial services will be from 4PM until 6PM Friday, November 7, 2008 at the Suntree Country Club with shared remembrances from friends and family.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in the name of Jenni Newlin, beloved granddaughter of Mr. Whitner.

Condolences may be expressed and memories shared in the guest book at: www.hunterallenmyhand.com.