Louise Whipple, a longtime resident of the Duncan area, entered into eternal rest Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at her home in York Valley, with her daughters at her side. She was 97.
Born to Warner and Mattie (Crabtree) Foote in Clifton, AZ on May 20, 1927, Martha Louise was their third daughter joining two older sisters, Jessie Opal and Barbara June. Five more children, Warner Jr, Harold, Sally, Charles, and Sandra eventually completed the family. Except for one year in Clifton, the Foote children attended Duncan Schools doing homework by kerosene lamp. Louise graduated as class Valedictorian with many honors in 1945.
During WWII, Louise worked at the County Extension office, then at Phelps Dodge in Morenci. When the War ended, she married her sailor Eddie Whipple in Tempe, AZ in 1946. Their first home had electricity!
Louise only ever wanted to be a wife and mother. This dream came true as five children joined their family. Living mostly in AZ, yet also in CA, MI, NM, and PA, she and Eddie returned to her original homestead in 1974 to enjoy their final years.
A love of learning and serving others filled Louise’s life. With church work, and family, her life was full. She enjoyed a beautiful yard with colorful flowers and birds all around. Her home was the center of congregating for generational family gatherings. Always a lady, Louise appreciated a nice home and pleasant surroundings.
A widow since 2000, Louise is predeceased by her parents, husband, four siblings, a son, daughter-in-law, two sons-in-law, granddaughter, and three great-grandchildren. Her love of family is carried forward by her daughters Elizabeth (John) Laney of Safford, AZ, Naomi Kohrman of Sandy, UT, Mary (Rob) Robbins of Virden, NM, and Ruthie (Ray) Huggins of York. She is also loved and missed by 29 grandchildren, 73 great-grandchildren, and 13 great-great-grandchildren.
Louise’s life was a testament to the beauty of a life well-lived, the lives she touched, and the love she shared. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy will bloom eternally in the hearts of those she has left behind.
Funeral services for Louise will be conducted Friday, July 12, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. in the Duncan Stake Center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with burial preceding at 9 a.m. in Virden Cemetery.
Grandsons David Whipple, Chip & Brian Kohrman, Robbie, Jacob, & Teddy Robbins, Sammy & Benjamin Huggins will serve as casket bearers, accompanying Gramma to her final resting place.
Online condolences may be offered at www.viningfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are entrusted to Vining Funeral Home.
