Published in The Commercial Appeal on June 4, 2015
Frank Gaines Whitington, Jr. 18, who was full of love, laughter, and life was born on 19 July 1996 in Memphis, TN. to Frank G. and Mary T. Hood Whitington. Gaines passed away on 29 May 2015 less than two weeks after graduating from Memphis University School. Gaines attended St. Dominic School for boys until sixth grade. He had an extremely promising future with plans to attend University of Colorado Boulder in the fall. Gaines’ life was beautiful, affecting many as a leader, mentor, and friend. A meticulous writer with many interests and a man for all seasons, he was the poetry editor for MUSE and a varsity starter on the Owl’s football team. Gaines had a strong athletic experience running track, baseball, and wrestling over his six years at MUS. This devastating loss to his family, friends, and society leaves a hole in many hearts including teachers, coaches, and the many that helped to mold this fine young man. The outpouring of beautiful memories and recounting of upstanding acts from this true gentleman and good citizen are serving his spirit well and providing healing comfort. F. Gaines Whitington leaves behind his parents and two sisters, Montana McLean Whitington and Savannah Brynne Ryan Whitington both of San Francisco, CA. his Loving grandparents, Carl Odom Hood and Emma Rena McLean Hood of Pleasant Hill, MS. his loving grandmother, Martha Gene Gaines Whitington and grandfather, Dr. Gene Luther Whitington both of Memphis, his Uncles Fr. Carl Jude Hood, Anthony ‘Tony’ Joseph (Beverly) Hood, Vincent Thomas (Kristen) Hood, Patrick Christopher Hood, his Aunts Jean Mercer (Breen) Bland, Peggy (Wayne) Reynolds of Charlotte, Deborah W. Demott many cousins and a very large extended family. We must include Michael Joseph Prince a brother friend and his confirmation sponsor and his precious girlfriend Anna Elise Fox Apollonio. There will be a visitation at 11am Friday morning 5 June 2015 followed by a 1:30 pm Funeral at St. Louis Catholic Church, 203 S. White Station Road. He will be interred at Elmwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please send memorials in his name to Memphis University School, 6191 Park Avenue, Memphis TN 38119 or online at musowls.org.
Guest Book
June 18, 2015 The Walker family remembers Gaines from when we babysat him, Montana and Savannah when they were young. Such a cute little boy who was loved by his mom, dad, and sisters. We are so sorry to hear of this tragedy and know your hearts, souls and life is just broken. May God give you peace in this darkest of times.
June 05, 2015 So sorry for your loss! May God give you comfort. Shirley Johnson & family.
June 05, 2015 Rest in peace, sweet boy. Anonymous.
June 05, 2015 Frank and Mary, Montana, Savannah, We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that our prayers are with you in this difficult time. - Art and Dana Miller, Germantown, Tennessee
June 04, 2015 May God wrap you in his arms and hold you tight! Andre Samson, Collierville, Tennessee.
June 04, 2015 Frank, Mary and all of your family...I am heartbroken for you and realize no words could bring you any comfort now. I pray that you will all hold on to each other to make it through... Terri Mauldin-O'Connor, Collierville, Tennessee
June 04, 2015 I am so sorry for your loss! Prayers to your family! Ross was a classmate of Gaines and will miss him very much!!