Webster, NY, April 15, 2022 at age of 87. John is survived by his wife, Nancy Whatley, daughter Tanya Boyd, son Mark Whatley, stepdaughters Kary Gross and Kelly Knefel, grandsons Derrick Boyd, Dillon Boyd and AJ Gross and granddaughter Alex McCarter. He was an active volunteer at Mimbres United Methodist Church, member and officer of The Texas Antique Airplane Association and member of EAA.
He graduated from Hardin-Simmons University on a basketball/track scholarship in 1956. As an ROTC candidate, John entered the Navy in 1956, trained as a naval aviator, served in the reserves, retiring Lt. Colonel. He was a Territory Manager for Sears Contract Sales for 38 years. He was also a flight instructor and participated in the EAA Young Eagles program, introducing children to flying through an actual flight in his plane. John loved flying. John was an enthusiastic Dallas Cowboys sport fan.
Thanks to the Hospice staff for their compassionate care. John was blessed with many special friends.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to EAA (Experimantal Aircraft Association) www.eaa.org/youngeagles/donation or Grace Avenue United Methodist Church, Frisco Texas.
