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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Kennedy Whiteley, Jr., who peacefully departed this world on July 3, 2026, at the age of 75. James was born on August 25, 1950, in the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina and he lived a life filled with joy, courage, and an unwavering spirit.
James was the beloved son of the late James Kennedy Whiteley, Sr., and Ruth Marie Paul Whiteley. He was preceded in death by his cherished parents and his dear brother, Charles Whiteley. His memory will be tenderly carried forward by those who survive him: his brother, John Whiteley, and sister-in-law, Bonnie Whiteley of Fayetteville, Georgia; his sister, Betty Siroky of Fayetteville, Georgia; his sister, Lou Blessing and brother-in-law, Carl Blessing of Laurel, Mississippi; his brother, David Whiteley of Charleston, South Carolina; his sister, Vivian Povoski and brother-in-law, Joe Povoski of Bradford, New York. James also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and a multitude of cousins, all of whom will forever cherish his memory.
In his formative years, James grew up in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, where he discovered a passion for sports that would become a significant part of his life. Since 1969, he actively participated in the Special Olympics, where he excelled in basketball, softball, track and field, bowling, bocce ball, soccer, and fishing. His dedication and talent earned him numerous medals, but it was his sportsmanship and the friendships he forged that truly defined his legacy in the Special Olympics community.
James faced life’s challenges with remarkable resilience, particularly his battle with Alzheimer’s in recent years. Despite his struggles, he remained a beacon of love and positivity for all who knew him. His gentle nature, infectious smile, and kind heart left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
Though James has departed this earthly realm, his spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his legacy of love, courage, and joy live on in our hearts forever. James’ final resting place will be next to his mother, father, and brother at Carolina Memorial Gardens in Charleston, South Carolina. Final Internment Arrangements, Carolina Memorial Gardens, 7113 Rivers Avenue, North Charleston, SC 29406 On Friday, July 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests that donations be made in James’s memory to the local chapter of the Special Olympics, an organization that brought him immense joy and purpose throughout his life.
Betty Siroky says
You are so loved and will be missed everyday. Love you Big Brother
Lou says
Missing all your phone calls.
Love you beyond measure.
Evianne Blessing says
You will be missed so dearly. I love you
Gary and Michele Benek says
We were so blessed to have known you. You will be missed.
David Whiteley says
Hey big brother, I will miss you very much, but I’ll have the memories of growing up together. You will be missed by all.
Lee Pouncy says
Deepest Sympathy and Condolences to Betty, Lucille and Family for the loss of your Beloved Family Member. I will truly miss him and his witty demeanor. James was very well loved for his athleticism and his love for Special Olympics. I Coached James in Bowling, Bocce, Flag Football and Basketball. He was beginning to get into Volleyball. I Will Truly Truly Miss Him. Sending My Heartfelt Love To The Family
Vivian says
You were an awesome big brother and you will be truly missed by everyone that knew you. RIP Kenny I love you. ❤️Vivian ❤️
Justin Povoski says
Rest in peace, Uncle Red. You’re with all those legendary wrestlers now, watching over us from above. You will be missed and always remembered.
Gladys L Klarin(Marti) says
Praying for your peace with loving memories, Bless you all
Erma Mitchell says
My sincerest condolences to the family. I had the pleasure of working with James and arguing with him over cutting his hair. I miss the surprise of seeing what he had done with his hair. He was fun to work with and he is missed by myself and his friends from his community and Special Olympics.
Sue says
Your memory will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew you. Rest in peace. My heartfelt condolences to all. Keeping the family in my thoughts and prayers.
Denie Layne (Whiteley) McLaren says
From the time I was a youngster to my own children being born, your love of children will never be forgotten.
Micki says
RIP Kenny (Red), you’ll always be remembered. My condolences to your family.
Anna Roberts says
I did not know Kenny only thru his sisters and one brother David.
All of you will miss him and will have the memories deep in your heart forever.
My condolences and love to all of you during this time of sadness.
Anna Roberts.
John Lynes says
Never met you but you are family, sorry I didn’t get the chance Betty and Lou have talked about you. Know you are missed and loved.
Richard & Jean Blessing says
Our sincerest condolences to Lou and family. Your never ending patience, dedication and travel
to assist your brother will always be remembered.
May he rest in peace.