John Hampton Whitesides, 53, of Newberry died at his home. Born on May 20, 1970 in Hickory, NC, he was the son of the late Dr. Glenn Edward and Jerry Hoke Whitesides.

John was a graduate of the Newberry High School class of 1988 and attended Clemson University. He then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

He loved sports and excelled in playing basketball and tennis as a young man. Above all his favorite sport was Clemson football. He enjoyed woodworking and developed his talent over many years. He had remarkable love for animals, especially his cats, and ice cream. John had his challenges throughout his life, but never lost his loving heart, the twinkle in his eye and his generous smile.

He was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer.

John is survived by his sisters, Jane Whitesides Doolittle (Chris Metts) of Newberry, and Anna Whitesides Harris (Chris Harris) of Knoxville, TN; nieces and nephews, John Cameron Doolittle (Emily), Connor Edward Doolittle, Claire Doolittle Lester (Adam), Emma Catherine Harris, Christopher Ethan Harris, Susannah Harris, and Laura Lee Cooper (Mark); great-nephews, Tucker William Doolittle and Hampton Charles Doolittle; uncle, Larry Hoke; numerous cousins; and his many beloved cats. He is also survived by a special friend, Martijn Van Zadelhoff.

The family invites you to drop by Whitaker Funeral Home between 11 am to 1 PM on Saturday, September 2, 2023 to remember and honor John's life.

Memorials are suggested to the Newberry County Humane Society, PO Box 485, Newberry SC 29108.

Memories and messages may be shared with John's family here on his tribute page.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Whitesides family.