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Oct. 13, 1947 – Dec. 6, 2023

NATCHEZ — Evelyn Gaynell Josey Whitney, of Natchez, passed away Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at home with her family at the age of 76.

Gaynell was born October 13, 1947, in Oxford and was raised in Natchez. She attended Natchez Adams County High School and graduated in 1966. Gaynell attended Copiah Lincoln Community College where she was a Collette. She went on to graduate from the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in Education.

She married Richard Malcolm Whitney of Natchez. They were married for 53 loving years, with Natchez being their home. They had two children, their son, Ashly Malcolm, and daughter, Jennifer Whitney.

Gaynell is survived by her husband, Richard; her son Ashly Malcolm Whitney (Staci); her daughter Jennifer Whitney Nienaber (Derek); her granddaughter, Cloie Ashton Whitney; her brother-in-law, Mark Whitney (Betty); and her sister-in-law, Whitney Shuman (Eric).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Opal and Lloyd Josey; and her sister, Rose Marie Josey Dykes.

Gaynell taught English and Science in the public school system for 28 years and spent an additional twelve years teaching at Adams County Christian School and retired in 2013.  She was a devoted and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was involved in the Natchez Garden Club, ADK, and a very active member of Grace Methodist Church. She enjoyed getting together with friends and entertaining.

A celebration of life service will be held at 10 a.m. on January 3, 2024, at Grace Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at lairdfh.com.