Charles Whedbee, a devoted husband, loving father, respected Southern Baptist pastor, and cherished grandfather, passed away peacefully in his home in Dayton, AR, on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, at the age of 94. He departed from this world leaving behind an abundance of memories and a profound legacy of faith.
On January 11, 1929, God blessed his parents Samuel Leroy Whedbee and Elouise Whedbee with his birth in Midland, AR. As a young man Charles felt called by the Lord to full time church ministry. While pastoring, he graduated from Southwestern Seminary and dedicated his life to nurturing the spiritual well-being of his congregation and inspiring them with his heartfelt sermons. He pastored and helped grow nine different churches including Fellowship Baptist in Witcherville. He also served many other churches as interim after his retirement.
Charles had a love for missions, preaching the word in Africa, the Philippines, and across the United States. Throughout his ministry, Charles touched countless lives. His words of wisdom provided solace and guidance to many during times of joy and hardship.
Charles was a devoted family man. For 77 years he shared a deep and abiding love for his wife Ivalee and together they created a warm and loving home. Charles is survived by two sons, Tom and wife Betty of Dayton, AR and Barry and wife Terry of Gilmer, TX; and one daughter Pamela Williams and husband Tom of Advance, North Carolina. Charles was not only a beloved father but also a proud grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with his 6 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Charles also has one great great grandchild due this month.
He was known for his storytelling and his captivating tales of bygone eras. Charles will forever be remembered for his warm smile, his unwavering faith, and his love for ice cream and Black Angus cows.
Arrangements and cremations are being entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas. You may leave words of comfort and remembrance for Charles’ family by visiting: www.heritagememorialfh.com.
All those who were touched by his kindness, inspired by his faith, and charmed by his stories are invited to join in remembering him at a memorial service to be held at Fellowship Baptist Church, in Witcherville, AR on Friday, July 21, 2023, at 6:00 pm with visitation after the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Fellowship Baptist Church Mission Trip Fund (111 College Road, Huntington, AR 72940) or Gideon Bibles to continue his legacy of sharing Jesus throughout the world.
