John Derham Whetsell, Jr. , 94 Entered eternal rest with his Heavenly Father on January 20, 2025.

He was born in Barnwell County on March 24, 1930, the son of the late Blanch Hart Irick Whetsell and John Derham Whetsell, Sr. He was a graduate of Holly Hill High School and the University of South Carolina in 1950 where he was a track star. As a freshman, he would share stories of his winnings against upperclassman, only losing one race to a Wofford athlete. He had a short tenure at the University and was brought home to replace his deceased father on the railroad. He stayed with CSX Railroad for 39 years until his retirement. He met the love of his life by giving train orders over the phone to his wife of 67 years, Belle who was working at Santee Cement Plant. They were married after a courtship and went on to build an endearing and enduring, beautiful life together. Derham loved his family and was their biggest fan. His cousins loved him, known for his striking features, he was often referred to as the man who should have been movie star. That always made him smile as he was very devoted to exercise and self-care. He stayed active into his 90’s, throwing around light weights to stay strong. His passions were quiet time in the woods listening to a fox chase. He loved to hear the dogs chasing anything and as a youngster always had a pack of dogs. His memories and infectious smile will forever be remembered

He is survived by his beautiful, loving amazing wife of 67 years, Belle Howell Whetsell of St. George. They had 3 beautiful children, John Derham Whetsell, III, (Johnny), Barry Howell Whetsell (Wendy), and Mary Ann Whetsell Childs ( Brad). He has 4 beautiful grandchildren: Pressley Ann Childs and Brooke Childs; Kelsey Alexandra Gervasi; Taylor Nicole Richards; Brandon Wayne Richards; his great grandchildren are: Madison Olivia Gervasi, Karson Lynn Gervasi, Cooper James Richard; Harper Lane Richards. He also loved his niece and nephews: Debbie (Martin) Eubanks; Joey (Regina) and Jamie Whetsell and Jeff (Sarah) and Tommy (Rhonda) Wiggins. He was the oldest sibling, brother to Frances Hart Wiggins and Joseph Fletcher Whetsell, both deceased. An incredible life well lived! Rest peacefully and easy Sweet Child. You will be missed by us all.

Funeral Services will be held 2:00 PM Thursday, January 23, 2025, at St. George Methodist Church with Reverend Joey McDonald officiating.  Burial will follow in the St. George Cemetery.  The family will receive friends an hour before the service in the church.

Memorials may be made to St. George Methodist Church, PO Box 506, St. George, South Carolina 29477.