Thomas Buford Whitman

Thomas Buford "Spider" Whitman 93, of Kingsport went to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 1, 2018 at Holston Valley Medical Center. He was born in Damascus, VA to the late Luther and Carrie Whitman and resided in Kingsport for most of his life. Thomas served his country during WWII in the Philippines as an Amphibious Engineer with the Army. He was employed at Eastman Kodak for over 30 years before his retirement. Thomas was a member of Island Road Evangelical Methodist Church and also attended Cedar View Independent Methodist Church. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his sisters, Eloise Droke, Gertrude Broyles, and Stella Blakley; brother, James Whitman; one infant brother. Survivors include his loving wife of 74 years, Juanita Salley Whitman; son, Terry Whitman and wife, Terri; daughter, Sandra Jessee and husband, David; brother, George Whitman and wife Camoline; granddaughter, Tina Whitman and fiancé, Thomas Mason; great-grandson, Corbin; great-granddaughter, MacKenzie; step-granddaughter, April Griffin and husband Chad; step-grandsons, Justin Dougherty and wife Lindsey, Andrew Dean and fiancé Amber; step-great grandchildren, Alex Griffin and Nolan Dougherty; along with many foster grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and a host of friends. The family will receive friends from 2pm to 4pm on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at Carter-Trent Funeral Home downtown, Kingsport. A funeral service will follow in the chapel with Pastor Earl Miller officiating. A military graveside will be conducted at 3pm on Monday, March 5, 2018 at Oak Hill Memorial Park with American Legion Hammond Post #3/265 conducting the honors. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 2:50PM. Carter-Trent Funeral Home downtown, Kingsport is serving the Whitman family.