Jeffrey C Whitney

Jeffrey C. Whitney, affectionately known as "El Jefe" to his friends and family, passed away surrounded by family on March 30. Jeff leaves behind a legacy as vibrant and unique as the sunset over the beaches he loved.

Jeff entered the world on January 14, 1957, the coldest day on record in the history of Oxford, NY, born to Caroline and Stanley Whitney. After he graduated from Norwich High School in 1975, he co-owned the family business, Whit’s Ice Cream and Mini-Golf. For most of his professional life, he worked in food manufacturing, making everything from chocolate sauce to spaghetti sauce. 

What truly described Jeff, though, was his unwavering love for his family. Whether it was popping fly balls or catching frisbees with his sons Aaron and Matthew, spending time with his boys was his greatest priority. Undoubtedly, he would say they were his life’s best accomplishments. In the sand on Rehoboth Beach, he proposed to his wife of 20 years, Mary Ann. In a moment that could only be described as quintessentially Jeff, he pretended to fend off a flock of seagulls, tripping in the sand only to “find” a diamond ring. Upon their marriage, he gained a daughter, Jennifer, with whom he gave consistent car advice. Together, he and Mary Ann would take the waves and tides of life as a team until the very end.  

Jeff lived life on his own terms. Though he may have left this world, his spirit will forever dance in the waves and soar with the seagulls along the shoreline. His legacy will forever wash ashore in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Jeff was predeceased by his parents and sister, Loretta, and his beloved yellow lab, Libby. He is survived by his wife Mary Ann, his sons Aaron (Mikayla) and Matthew (Samantha), grandson Jaxon, Mary Ann’s daughter, Jennifer, and grandson Andrew, and his brothers Steve (Shannon) and Marc (Ronda).  

 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the local SPCA in Jeff's memory. 

The family will welcome friends and family for a celebration of Jeff’s life at the Northeast Classic Car Museum in Norwich, NY from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, April 6. Please park and enter using the door on North State Street.