H. George Whitehead

Carbondale – H. George Whitehead, 70, passed away at 10:59 a.m. on Tuesday, March 8, 2016 in Herrin Hospital.



George was born on December 16, 1945 in Ava, Missouri to Herbert Cecile and Jennie Leona (Greer) Whitehead.



George was united in marriage with Jo Ann Branan on June 14, 1970 in Peoria. She survives and is of Carbondale.



Other survivors include his two sons, Christopher George Whitehead and Jonathon Michael Whitehead both of Carbondale; sister, Virginia Nussbaum of Eureka; granddaughter, Caylee Rae Whitehead of Carbondale; Sister-in-law Sandy and husband Greg Arnett of Canton; Nephews, Clark (Lora) Nussbaum of Alpine, TX; Phillip and Luke Nussbaum of Eureka; and Niece, Lou Anna (Robert) Cookson of Peoria.



George is preceded in death by his parents.



George served his country in the United States Army from 1965-1967. After his military service he attended and graduated from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. He started his career with the Park District for the City of Carbondale as an intern and went on to become the Park District Director where he served for 22 years. He was well known in the community as Santa George during the Christmas season. He also worked as a recreational instructor at Southern Illinois University for 10 years until his retirement in December 2015. George was a member of the Southern Illinois Parks and Recreation Association. He leaves behind many wonderful friends and colleagues and will be missed by all who knew him.



Per his wishes his body will be cremated and no services will be held. Memorial donations may be made to his granddaughter Caylee’s college fund. Caylee’s desire is to be a Saluki just like Papa. Donations may be sent to SIU Credit Union, c/o Jo Ann Whitehead; P.O. Box 2888, Carbondale, IL 62902.