William "Boottie" Whitwell

William E. Whitwell, affectionately known to everyone as “Boottie,” age 75, of Lynnville, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home. Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Boottie was born in Columbia, Tennessee, to the late William Eldred Whitwell and the late Tommie Ruth Baker Whitwell. He graduated from Haylong High School in 1969 and spent his working years as a truck driver and farmer. He also proudly served his country in the Army National Guard.

Boottie was a man with a big personality and a gift for making friends wherever he went. He never met a stranger and loved nothing more than striking up a conversation with anyone who crossed his path. He had a lifelong passion for cars, owning one even before he had a driver’s license, and was a talented mechanic who could always be counted on to work on an engine. He was also an excellent cook and enjoyed spending time fishing. A man of Baptist faith, Boottie lived a life filled with hard work, laughter, and love for those around him.

Above all, Boottie was a devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a loving grandfather and great-grandfather. He set a beautiful example of what a marriage should be, and his daughters will always cherish the way he and his wife shared a love that seemed like a fairytale. His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. More recently, he formed a particularly special bond with his only great-granddaughter, creating memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Boottie’s love for his family, his larger-than-life personality, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Boottie is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Debra Ann Vincent Whitwell; his son, Logan Fitzgerald; his daughters, Kimberly (Bryant) Workman, Erin (Dean) Tays, Kaylee Whitwell (Quinton), Chasity Harrington, and Mandy Harrington; his sisters, Jannie (Ed) Brooks and Lisa Whitwell; aunts, Joyce Duncan and Rissy Delk; eight grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. Along with his parents he was preceded in death by a special cousin, Wilma Odom.

He will be forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.