Greenville, SC: Award-Winning Artist and Military Wife Passes Away
Jane Chandler Whitmire, renowned artist and dedicated military spouse, peacefully passed away at the age of 98 on September 27, 2024, at The Woodlands at Furman in Greenville, SC. A beloved figure in her community, she leaves behind a legacy of creativity and devotion to family.
A Life of Accomplishments
Born on January 17, 1926, Ms. Whitmire was the daughter of Laverne Chandler Whitmer and Feland Oscar Whitmer in Seymour, Indiana. She pursued her education at Stephens College in Columbia, MO, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Ms. Whitmire also earned a master’s degree from Columbia University in New York City while studying Russian at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, CA.
It was at Columbia University that she met her husband, Charles Goodwin Whitmire, an Army officer who was studying economics. Their love story began in a dormitory, where their mailbox slots conveniently sat next to each other. The couple married on July 4, 1948, in Seymour, Indiana.
A Journey Together
As an Army wife, Ms. Whitmire traveled extensively, moving with her husband as he served at various military posts both in the U.S. and overseas. She lived in notable places such as the Pentagon, Germany, London, and the US Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria. After her husband retired as a Colonel, they settled in Arlington, Virginia, where Ms. Whitmire remained until relocating to Greenville, SC, in 2016.
A Passion for Art
Jane Whitmire was not only a loving wife and mother but also a talented artist. She created works in diverse mediums, excelling particularly in oil painting and collage. Her needlework was masterful, and she showcased her talents in various galleries in the Washington, DC area, including the National Textile Museum.
Her works were sold through prestigious institutions such as the Smithsonian and the Folger Shakespeare Library. Over the years, Ms. Whitmire received numerous accolades at the Woodlawn Needlework Show held annually in Alexandria, Virginia, affirming her status as a master needlework artist.
Family and Legacy
Ms. Whitmire is survived by five children: James M. Whitmire (Shelly) and Jerry C. Whitmire, both from Alexandria, VA; Charles G. Whitmire, Jr. (Kathy) and Jane Pilzer (Don), both of Greenville, SC; and Anne Dembinski (Tom) from Newport, RI. She also cherished her roles as a grandmother to 11 grandchildren and a great-grandmother to 9 great-grandchildren.
The family expressed their gratitude towards the staff at The Woodlands at Furman for the exceptional care provided throughout Ms. Whitmire’s residency. They noted that she found joy there, continuing her artistic endeavors while appreciating the birds that visited her window.
A Final Resting Place
Ms. Whitmire’s beloved husband passed away in 2003, and she will be laid to rest beside him at Arlington National Cemetery on January 6, 2025. Family and friends can share their favorite memories and condolences by visiting the designated online memorial.
Jane Whitmire’s contributions to both her family and the arts reflect a life well-lived and a spirit that will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
