Shirley J. Whitaker

Bartow- Shirley J. Whitaker, age 76, passed away Thursday, March 24, 2022, at her home in Bartow. Born March 5, 1946, in Tampa, she was the daughter of the late Ralph Eugene Sammons and Eva Florence (Prine) Sammons. Mrs. Whitaker was a Baptist. Shirley worked for many years as an Administrative Assistant in the billing department of the Polk County Democrat in Bartow. Along with her parents, she is also preceded in death by her brother, Ronald E. Sammon earlier this year. She is survived by a loving family that includes her husband of 52 years, Herbert "Buddy" Whitaker of Bartow, her children: Charlie Whitaker (Dreama) of Bartow, Nathan Whitaker of Bartow and Jennifer Whitaker of Bartow. She also leaves behind five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. The family will hold a private graveside service in Wildwood Cemetery in Bartow.