As we pause at this point in history, we reflect on Bro. Obediah Luellen Whooper and those who love him as he takes his flight to his eternal home of rest.

Obediah Luellen Whooper was born to the late Shed and Matilda Whooper, March 5,1954 in Macon Mississippi. He was one of 15 siblings. Obediah’s parents, three of his brothers Shed, Paul James, Sammie Lee and three of his sisters Mary, Bonnie and Jeannette, all preceded him in death.

Obediah L. Whooper confessed hope in Jesus Christ at an early age. He was baptized and became a member of the Zion Hill M.B. Church of Macon Mississippi. He was educated through the Macon Mississippi School System where he found his love of cooking, fishing, and pursuing trades in construction and landscaping. This knowledge led to work experience with Sears in Elk Grove Village, IL; Cox Construction of Chicago, IL; Oakley Construction of Chicago, IL; Callahan Construction of Tampa FL and John Miere Landscaping of Tampa, FL.

While residing in Chicago his heart united in marriage with Anita Barnes. Together they established a lovely family, son Willie Chandler; son Darrin Barnes (Dawn) grandson Joseph and Joshua; daughter Devona Barnes granddaughters ShaVon & Dominique Sokan and Trineese Barnes; son LaVar Barnes granddaughter Tamya Barnes and grandson LaVar Barnes Jr.

In the spiritual celebration of his homegoing, he leaves to cherish his memories: his wife, Anita Barnes Whooper of Lafayette, GA; children, son, Willie Chandler of Hanover Park, IL; son, Darrin Barnes of Flossmoor, IL; daughter, Devona Barnes of Carol Stream, IL, son, LaVar Barnes of Glen Ellen, IL; sister, Ruther Mae Hill of Country Club Hill, IL; brother, Leonard Whooper of Carol Stream, IL; brother, Willie C. Whooper (Anita) of Bellwood, IL; sister, Annette Whooper-Prince of Columbus MS, sister, Theretha Whooper of Carol Stream, IL, sister, Minister Belinda Whooper Morris of Columbus MS, brother, Bobby Earl Whooper (Pearl) of Columbus MS. His memories will also be cherished by a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces and nephews and friends who will miss him dearly.