Celebrating the Life, Strength, and Legacy of Carolyn Sue Whitaker

Sunrise: September 8, 1956 – Sunset: August 25, 2026

Carolyn Whitaker (née Gray), affectionately known to all who loved her as “Sue,” was a beacon of extraordinary strength, unwavering faith, and vibrant joy. Born on September 8, 1956, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to Daisy Bishop and Willie Gray, Sue spent her life creating a lasting legacy grounded in resilience, unconditional love, and fierce loyalty.

A proud graduate of the Muskogee High School Class of 1974, Sue went on to further her education in the mid-to-late 1970s by attending Connors State College. Following her time in college, she entered the workforce at Corning Glass in Muskogee, Oklahoma. She later met and married Marcus Whitaker, embracing her calling as a devoted homemaker. In later years, Sue found deep companionship and love with her lifelong partner of over 25 years, Maurice Trimble, standing faithfully by his side until his transition.

Yet, of all the titles, roles, and achievements in her life, none brought her greater pride than motherhood. On August 11, 1973, she, along with Nathaniel Stancle, Jr., welcomed a 9-pound, 2-ounce baby boy, Donyale. Sue affectionately referred to him as “Baby Huey” because of how big he was. Donyale was her absolute pride and joy—the heartbeat of her world and the light of her life.

To know Sue was to witness the essence of a true warrior. Throughout an 18-year journey on dialysis alongside a host of other medical challenges, her life stood as a masterclass in perseverance and sheer willpower. Whenever the doctors counted her out, Ms. Sue consistently proved them wrong, showing the world that you are never counted out until God says so. Her resilience was nothing short of miraculous, facing every obstacle with grace, grit, and a steadfast spirit that inspired everyone blessed to be in her presence.

Even amidst her toughest battles, Sue never lost her spark. Blessed with a sharp wit, a slick tongue, and an unforgettable sense of humor, she could brighten any room with laughter while always delivering the truth with love. She stood as a pillar and a mother figure to generations of family and friends, welcoming all with open arms, steady wisdom, and genuine kindness. Her vibrant presence was as bright, deep, and unforgettable as her favorite color—sapphire blue, the reflection of her September birthstone.

Sue’s strength was anchored in her profound relationship with God. A faithful member of New Zion Baptist Church, she dearly loved her church family and lived a life of dedicated Christian stewardship. She believed wholeheartedly in the power of giving, remaining a faithful and regular tither throughout every season of her life, right up until her journey was complete.

On the morning of August 25, 2026, at 7:39 a.m., Sue claimed her ultimate victory and peacefully transitioned from labor to reward, surrounded by the warmth, comfort, and boundless love of those who cherished her most.

Preceded in Death

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, Daisy Gray (née Bishop) and Willie Gray; her husband, Marcus Whitaker; her beloved sibling, Patricia Walker; and her lifelong partner of 25+ years, Maurice Trimble.

Her Cherished Legacy

Her memory and fighting spirit will forever be cherished by her devoted son, Donyale Stancle; her adored grandchildren, E’mari Stancle, Dacario Stancle, Jory Stancle, and Charlee Stancle; and her precious great-grandchildren, E’mani Stancle, Messiah Stancle, Halo Stancle, Ny’Riah Stancle, and Jory Stancle, Jr.

She leaves a legacy of love with her siblings: Joyce “Dinky” Lowe (Chauncey), Willette Roberson (Billy), Jackie Mack (Calvin), and Pamela Dyer-Rucker, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Deeply treasured family and friends: Kenneth (Olivia) Bishop, Leonardo Bishop, Monica Bishop, Henry “Hank” (Lula) McVay, Greg McVay, Gary McVay, Tosha McIntosh, Alfred Reed, Brian McVay, Brianna McVay, Michelle Cotton, Hiram Stancle, Jesse Daloney, Kamara Stancle, Pastor Joshua Mitchell (Jethena), Franchella Walker, Vickia Fletcher, Inger Johns, Tameka Patton, Micole Owens, Melanie Hill, Gallie Teague, Brenda Stancle, Glenda “FeeFee” Anderson, Terry Townsell, Ronnie SIngleton, Howard McBride, Jr., and Marsha Porter.

Sue fought the good fight, finished her course, and kept the faith. Her courage, wit, and indomitable spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The Hour of Remembrance for Sister Whitaker will commence on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at High Noon, in the most holy sanctuary of New Zion Missionary Baptist Church.  The Pastor, Reverend Joshua Mitchell, will Preside.  Burial will follow the service in the sacred grounds of the Booker T. Washington Cemetery of Muskogee.

You may visit Ms. Carolyn, as she slumbers in sweet repose on Friday, between the hours of 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM at the Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc., of Muskogee.

You may order flowers:  (918)687-7574 lakelandflorist.com