The Obituary Samuel B. Whitfield Jr. (Big Ben) was born February 21, 1947, to the late Samuel B. Whitfield Sr. and Newtie Mae Reynolds-Whitfield. He was born and raised in Brooks County, Georgia. He spent the majority of his adult life in Newark, N.J. before moving to Valdosta, Georgia, where he lived for the past 10 years. His elementary and secondary education was received in the Brooks County School system and he graduated from Washington Street High School in 1966. After graduating, he enlisted into the United States Marine Corps. He served in the Vietnam War and was a Sergeant. He worked for many years at Eastern Airlines and then Community Coach Bus Company. He was on the football team in High School and a very active member in the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He loved sports and played softball on a couple teams during his time in Newark, N.J. He was preceded in death by his wife Mae Edna Edwards Whitfield and his only sibling Ernest J. Whitfield Sr. He leaves to cherish his memories: two children, Leslie R. Whitfield of Roselle, NJ and Benjamin B. Whitfield (Dora) of Newark, NJ; two grandchildren, Benjamin B. Whitfield Jr. (B.J.) and Dorian C. Whitfield (D.C.) of Newark, N.J.; one niece, Antoinette Whitfield of Pavo, GA; three nephews, Ernest J. Whitfield Jr. of Quitman, GA, Brad Whitfield of Monticello, FL, Marcus Whitfield, of Valdosta, GA; uncles and first cousins that he grew up with who were more like siblings as well as many other relatives and lifelong friends.
A private celebration of life will be Sunday, August 16, 2020 at 2PM. Visit this website or our Facebook page to view a live stream of the Celebration. Continue to keep the Whitfield family in your thoughts and prayers.
Sam was in my Marine company in Vietnam where he was loved by all who knew him. Semper Fidelis Sam! Jack Riley Boaz, AL
Ben you are gone but I will never forget you.Linda
Today I celebrate the life of my beloved cousin, Ben. I will miss his oversized spirit, his bellowing baritone voice, his great sense of humor, and his infectious laughter. Ben was a big supporter of the Washington HS alumni group and joined his Uncle Henry every year to visit cemeteries on Memorial Day to place American flags on the many graves relatives who served as far back as WW1. Most of all, I will always remember Ben for his commitment to family. He loved his children and played an active role in helping to raise his grandchildren. My deepest sympathy to Leslie and Benjamin and the entire family. As we mourn our loss, let us be forever mindful of the joy Ben brought to so many lives. May God bless you and keep you.
Danny Whitfield Houston, TX
Claudine Murray
Our condolences to the family may you find peace in this time of sorrow. Betty J Acree Riverview Fl
May you find comfort in these trying and sad times. God bless the family and friends.
Anthony Reynolds and family Atlanta Ga.
My you find comfort in these trying and sad times. God bless the family and friends
Anthony Reynolds and family Atlanta Ga.
Michael Reynolds
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