Obituary of Donald Maurice Whilden

Donald Maurice Whilden, 87, of Charlotte, N.C., went to heaven on Monday, August 21, 2019 at the age of 87.  He passed away after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. 

Don was born on February 29, 1932 in Greenville, S.C.  He later moved to Charlotte in 1948.  On July 1, 1951, he married Mary, the love of his life and was married for 68 years.  He served in the Korean War from 1953-1955. While being based in Chicago, Illinois, they welcomed their first child, Ronald Glenn, into the world.  In 1955, after the war ended, they returned to Charlotte and Don worked for Northstate Laundry and welcomed their second child, Sharon, into the world.  He later joined Dorsey’s Interiors and began his training in the drapery field.  In 1960 with his newly acquired drapery training, he purchased Newton & Newton Window Decorating from Mr. Newton.  The business is still in operation today run by Ron and his son Jeremy. 

From 1949 to 1980, Don attended Garr Memorial Church.  He later attended Harvest Church and served as a deacon for many years over his 30 year plus years attending there. Don taught going to church and tithing as a priority in life.  He deeply loved his family and taught us how to love.

Don is survived by his wife Mary; son Ron Whilden; daughter Sharon Lawing and her husband Dr. Kevin Lawing; grandson Chad Whilden; grandson Jeremy Whilden and his wife Debbra; grandson Justin Lawing; grandson Jason Lawing and his wife Desiree; grandson Bryan Lawing; and great grandson, Jacob Lawing.

A funeral service in honor of Don’s life will be held 2:00 pm, Saturday, August 24, 2019 at Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service, 1111 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC  28203. Visitation with family will be available from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.  There will be a brief graveside service at Forest Lawn West Cemetery, 4601 Freedom Dr., Charlotte, N.C. following the service.