Melvin McWhirter's Obituary
Melvin McWhirter
Funeral services for Melvin McWhirter, 81, of Longview, will be held at 10 AM Thursday, January 9, 2003 in the Chapel of Rader Funeral Home of Longview, 1617 Judson Road, with the Reverend Milton Black officiating. Entombment will follow in Rosewood Park Chapel Mausoleum.
Mr. McWhirter was born on October 16, 1921 in Texarkana to Hugh Melvin and Annie Maud McWhirter. He passed away on Monday, January 6, 2003 at his residence.
A longtime resident of Longview, he was an independent oil operator, independent agent for the Aetna insurance company, and in his earlier days, owned and operated Kilgore Radiator Service. Mr. McWhirter was a graduate of Longview High School, where he was a member of the schools only Texas high school football state championship team. He served his country in World War II with the United States Air Force, and was a 32nd degree mason. Mr. McWhirter was a member of the Sons of Republic of Texas on the line of his great grandfather, James B. McWhirter, of Bowie County, and the family still owns the mineral rights to the Republic of Texas land grant to this very day. He was also a member of Trinity Episcopal Church.
Melvin met Miss Emily Brown while they were in Longview high school where they became sweethearts. They united in marriage on September 24, 1942 and enjoyed 57 wonderful, loving years together.
A loving father and grandfather, Mr. McWhirter was preceded in death by his parents, and dear wife. He is survived by his daughters, Mary Evelyn McWhirter Kirkwood of San Antonio, Lee Brown McWhirter Cox of New Port Richey, Fl., son, Art McWhirter, sister, Carolyn McWhirter Orlebeke of Dallas, five grandchildren and one great grandchild. Those unable to attend may sign an online guest book at www.raderfh.com under obituaries.
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