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Norvella Goree Whitaker

02/13/1931 - 08/20/2025

Obituary For Norvella Goree Whitaker

A Service of Remembrance: Thursday, August 28, 2025 @ 6:00 P.M. @ Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel - 601 Franklin St. - Mansfield, LA

Funeral Service: Saturday, August 30, 2025 @ Rocky Valley Baptist Church - 133 Braswell Lane - Simsboro, La @ 11:00 A. M.

Burial in Church Cemetery


Condolences & Tributes

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My condolences to the family. I always thought she was so lovely. Her tall stature matched her elegant walk. I enjoyed playing basketball with her as my coach. Admired her, and loved her as a teacher. Rest on until that glorious day.

Kathlyn Jenkins Barnes

To the family of Coach Novella Goree Whitaker- my heart is filled sorrow because as I reflect on the special times we shared as a coach, relative, and friend. You will always be remembered as the person who helped shape my career. The many calls and the last visit we shared were very special. Thank you. Ammie and Family

Ammie Washington

Ohhh, Ms. Whitaker, our mother's dear roommate for the past year at MNC. You have been an adorable light in her life! Such intelligence. Your quick wit. Busting out singing at the drop of a hat! 🥰 I heard you calling for 'them' to bring you home. I saw your weariness. I'm grateful that you're in a better place. Mama is sad, still we will honor you always... 🌹🌹🌹 Eddie Jewel Murray & her girls

Clineece Kelly, Beverly Murray-Gilliam, Anderia Murray-Ezeofor

Rest In Paradise Cousin Until That Great Gettin Up Morning 🕊🕊🕊😇🌹🌹🌹🌹

~Ramona Rochelle ~

Ms Whitaker was a graceful and precious soul. She will be remembered by so many that have passed through DeSoto High. As a Coach and teacher she is remembered with love and respect. may you Rest In Peace among the 😇🙏🙏

Adrian LeBeouf

Early Wednesday morning I sat in her room (115) softly singing and praying, suddenly I heard her voice trying to sing with me. She did that most of the time. She was related to my Grandfather who came to Mansfield from around Simsboro, Louisiana. As quickly as she started singing she stopped. All those years as a Women Basketball coach she was lying there no sound just moving her mouth. She loved coaching girls Basketball. She walked with so much grace and dignity to be so tall in stature. She took no prisoners as a coach, you did as you were told or you came off the floor. Her girls won State Championships at DeSoto High School. So proud to have known you as a person and a dedicated Coach to Woman Basketball. R I P sweet angel you have won your crown. My prayers and condolences to the family. Gone but never be forgotten by your girls that played Basketball at DeSoto High School and the crowds of attendees at the games. Thanks for the memories. 🙏🏽🌈💞🏀💯🌹🎻

Patricia C. Carter

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Jenkins Funeral Home | LA

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