John Lee Whitehead

John Lee Whitehead transitioned from this life on March 10^th, 2024. Born on May 31^st, 1949, to the late John Robert and Florence Bartlett Whitehead in Davidson County, he was the eldest of six children. He attended Davidson County Schools and later became employed as the Head Custodian at Gower and Harpeth Valley Elementary Schools.

On October 23^rd, 1982, he married Claudia Ruth, and together they raised Shalonda, Jason, Jennifer and Jonathan Jerrell. John Lee cherished spending quality time with family. Family barbecues full of laughter, stories, and sharing experiences were truly the highlights of his days. He also enjoyed relaxing watching WWE wrestling, or TV Westerns. He cherished quality time with his late best friend Aaron and brother George Calvin. More than anything, John Lee loved time with his grandchildren.

In 1988, John Lee professed faith in Christ at the Old Hickory Blvd. Church of Christ under the leadership of Carl Carney Sr., who fondly called him “the professor”. John Lee was regular in attendance up until his health failed, even then, he would surprise everyone with visits, defying his declining health.

John Lee was known for his kind heart, warmth, humor, and protective nature. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Florence and John Robert, brothers: Samuel and George Calvin, and nephew John Glen. He is survived by his children; Shalonda (Christopher), Jason (Gwendolyn), Jennifer (Micah), and Jonathan. Siblings; Mary, James, and Bobby Whitehead. He leaves behind ten beloved grandchildren; Jaida, Dylan, Elijah, Eden, Mya, Madyson, Peyton, Jasmine, Zoë, and Kai-Lee. A host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Devoted niece; Selina Webster, devoted cousins; Rudy, Paul, Helen, and Tanya. Many friends, including Claudia Ruth, Walter Kindrat, Robert Lockridge, and Carolyn Thomas.