Elmer Lee Wilhite, Jr.

     In Loving Memory of Elmer Lee Wilhite, Jr., born July 29, 1944, and went to be with the Lord on October 23, 2023.

     It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Elmer Lee Wilhite, Jr., a follower of Jesus, loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, and dear friend to many. He departed this world peacefully in his sleep on October 23, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, really long stories told slowly, and enduring memories that will forever warm our hearts.

     Born just a few weeks after D-Day, Elmer had remarkable character and unwavering integrity. He touched the lives of those around him with his kindness, intelligence, and contagious smiles that could lighten any room. He was an exceptional husband and father, was committed to his church family, and was blessed with a very successful career, and now leaves a lasting legacy of love and laughter.

     Elmer was a loving husband to Clara Bonita Wilhite ("Bonnie") for over 57 years, and their bond inspired all who were fortunate enough to witness it. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and the shared values that would guide their family for generations. In addition to Bonnie, Elmer is survived by his identical twin brother Douglas Lee Wilhite, Elmer & Bonnie's children, Rachel Anne Wilhite Larkin (Thomas), Sarah Elizabeth Rambo (Jonathan) and Joel Elmer Wilhite who carry forward his legacy with gratitude and pride. Elmer is also survived by his grandchildren, Abigail Grace Wilhite, Jackson Lee Wilhite, Caleb Zsolt Wilhite, Benjamin Cade Larkin, Daniel Knox Larkin, Joshua Beau Larkin, Eliza Gail Johnson, Thomas Hayes Rambo, Levi Lebleu Rambo and Jesse Daniel Rambo who will forever cherish the moments they shared with their beloved Papa. In addition, he leaves behind a wide circle of relatives, friends, and all those whose lives were enriched by his presence.

     As a father, Elmer was a constant source of wisdom, guidance, and unconditional love. He instilled in his children the values of honesty, hard work, a good sense of humor and the importance of family. He taught them to be compassionate and curious, always to lend a helping hand, and to appreciate the beauty of life's simple pleasures.

     In addition to his role as a family man, Elmer served as an Elder for over 30 years at New Covenant Presbyterian Church in Aiken, acting as clerk of session for many of those years and mentoring many emerging church leaders during his service. Elmer also taught adult Sunday School and treasured leading the "Prime Timers" a small group Bible study for the young-at-heart, for over 20 years. His years of faithful service were characterized by kindness, wisdom, mentorship, and humor. And long stories. Told slowly.

     Elmer knew he wanted to be a chemist when he was given a chemistry set at age 7. He graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a BS in Chemistry, along with his twin brother Doug, then from Washington University in St. Louis, MO with an MS in Chemistry. A lifetime member of the American Nuclear Society and American Chemical Society, he retired in 2010 after 41 years of service at the Savannah River Site as a Senior Advisory Research Scientist. He proudly and periodically wore various apparel with the periodic table of elements printed prominently. Among countless recognitions throughout his career, he was awarded the Don Orth Award in 2003. This award is the Savannah River Site's highest distinction, recognizing technical excellence and leadership. His award citation noted:

"In his 35 years of service to SRS and the DOE Complex, Elmer has served as a   pioneer, enabler, organizer, developer, advisor, mentor, and leader."

     In addition to his lifelong dedication to his family, his consistent service to his church, and his distinguished professional career, Elmer loved to travel and was an inquisitive life-long learner and a voracious reader. He was also the captain of his college rifle team, where he met Bonnie, and was a pretty good shot.

     A memorial service will be held Saturday afternoon, October 28^th at 2 o’clock at New Covenant Presbyterian Church.  The family will receive friends in the narthex following the service.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 526 Hitchcock Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801, Jungle Aviation And Radio Service, (jaars.org) or Golden Harvest Food Bank (goldenharvest.org).

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC