Obituary of Arthur W. Whitmarsh

Formerly of Edwards-Arthur W. Whitmarsh, beloved husband, dedicated community member, and esteemed veteran, peacefully passed away at his home in Belmont, North Carolina on April 1, 2024, at the age of 82. Born to Harold and Ruby (Trumble) Whitmarsh, Art embarked on a life marked by service, commitment, and unwavering loyalty. After graduating from Edward Central School in 1960, Art enlisted in the US Army, proudly serving his country from 1961 to 1964. Upon his return, he became deeply involved in his community, leaving a lasting mark through his various roles and contributions. Art married Carol L. LaPlant on June 26, 1965, their union brought them decades of happiness until Carol's passing on June 21, 1999. Art dedicated over 42 years of his life to St. Joe Mining Resources in Balmat NY, where his hard work, dedication, and integrity earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike. For over 50 years, Art served as a Mason in Edwards, and part of those years he held the position of Master and District Deputy embodying the principles of brotherhood and fellowship. His dedication extended beyond the Masonic order, as he was the town Mayor, served on the Edwards Village Council and held positions on the Town & Senior Court Boards. Art was a member of the Edwards Lyons Club, Methodist Church, and Fire Department, where his passion for serving others shone brightly for over half a century. He was an avid fan of stockcar racing and spent many Saturday nights in Evans Mills and Lafargeville cheering on his favorite drivers. In July 2001, Art found love again when he married Barbara Gail Halladay. Together, they shared many cherished years in Edwards NY; Port St. Lucie, Florida; and most recently in Belmont, North Carolina. Art was preceded in death by his wife Carol and his siblings Harold Whitmarsh Jr., Phyllis Zaluski, Shirley Gagnon, and Janice Whitmarsh. Art leaves behind a loving family who brought him immeasurable joy and pride. He is survived by his wife Barbara (Gail) Whitmarsh, his son Steven A. Whitmarsh (Michelle), his daughter Renee L. Rouillier (Dan), and his stepchildren Heather Typhair (Billy) and Shane Halladay (Cristen). Art's legacy of love extends to his grandchildren: Travis Whitmarsh, Trevor Whitmarsh (Kristina) & Ashton Lowenstein (Adeline), as well as his step-grandchildren: Jackson and Faith Halladay, Dylan Typhair, Cheyenne Penne, Tanya Pomerville, and Dylan Wood. He also leaves behind six cherished great-grandchildren. Art's life was a testament to the power of service, love, and commitment. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A celebration of Arthur's life will be held at the Edwards Methodist Church on Saturday, May 11th; Calling hours will be from 1-3 with a funeral service to follow. Please join Art's family for a celebration of life at the Edwards Fire Hall immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gaston Hospice, 258 East Garrison Blvd, Gastonia NC 28054. Love and thanks to some very special angels from Gaston Hospice who provided support to Art and his family during a very difficult time, Heather Benton, Sunshine, Katie Burger & Holly Shames. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.