James Edward Whisnant

James Edward Durham Whisnant, 80, of Morganton passed away on Friday, September 28, 2018. Born in Cleveland County, NC on April 20, 1938, he was the only child of Perry Moore Whisnant and Mary D Self Whisnant.

James graduated from NC State with a degree in mechanical engineering and was employed by Armstrong World industries,  American Cyanamid and RJR Nabisco. He enjoyed travel and his jobs allowed him to see many places worldwide including his favorite, Australia, where he spent several years working.  His employment also included working with longtime friend Glen Walker at Walker Construction.   James later combined his mechanical skills with his interest in cars to create Speedlube, Inc. in Newton, NC.  He successfully managed that business until his death. 

James spent the last few months of his life at Burke Hospice and Palliative Care in Valdese where he received excellent care from many compassionate people. Those who knew him there expressed that he would be greatly missed.

James is survived by a wife, Phillis Whisnant, a daughter, Jill Reidinger and her husband Brian of Elizabethtown, PA and cousins with whom he remained close.