Milton J. Whorley

Milton Joseph Whorley, son of William Winder and the late Mary Catherine Whorley, was born on February 16, 1944 in Baltimore, Maryland. He went home to be with the Lord on July 24, 2003 after a lengthy illness with colon cancer. His sister Wandalene C. Green precedes him in death.Milton was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System and received his diploma from Carver Vocational Technical High School. He spent four years in the United States Army and was stationed in Paris, France where he served as a company clerk. Upon his return to civilian life he began his collegiate education at Morgan State College. He later earned as Associate of Arts Degree in Urban Studies from the Community College of Baltimore (CCB).In August of 1972, Milton accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior after hearing the gospel for the first time at Manna Bible Baptist Church. One month later he married Shirley Ann Robinson on September 1, 1972. From that union, three children were born.Family was very important to Milton; he inspired his children to begin walking with Christ at an early age. He set a standard for them to make things of Christ a priority in their lives. He took great pride in his children and even had the privilege of officiating the baptism of his daughter Stacey.“Bobby”, as he was affectionately known by his siblings, nieces and nephews, always brought excitement and humor to a family gathering. For years he wore his infamous red plaid pants to the family Christmas party. A true extrovert, he was personable, outgoing, and a stranger to no one. As a sports buff, Bobby coached a church basketball league and played football in high school. However, everyone knew his favorite Saturday morning pastime was shopping at yard sales and flea markets. After his military tour in France, he became passionate about traveling, having toured Europe extensively. Through his enthusiasm, he inspired others, especially his brother Frank, to travel the world.Milton recently retired from Bell Atlantic after more than 30 years of loyal service. Even on the job he was known for sharing his faith with conviction and boldness.In every aspect of his life, Milton was known for making friends quickly and opening up his heart to the needs of others. Years after attending Morgan, he still maintained his ties to the college, regularly transporting students his discipled to Manna on Sundays. It was not unusual for the family to be shocked by “unannounced” smiling dinner guests and their hearty appetites.After five years of membership at Manna, Milton was ordained as a deacon. He was known to many as “Deacon Whorley” and even had business cards. In this capacity he ministered faithfully, providing strategic leadership in the discipling and teaching ministries in the church. Milton served as Department Head of the Adult Sunday School, Assistant Superintendent of Sunday School (Junior Church) and Vice Chairman of the Deacon Board for more than 25 years.If asked what his favorite area of ministry was he would undoubtedly say working with the young people in junior church. Under the leadership of Deacon Carl Davis, his devoted mentor and friend, Milton taught, developed programs, and disciplined many youngsters in their walk with Christ. He had a special love for young people which was evident through many fun activities he enjoyed with them. Not only did he plan much of the fun, he also joined in the excitement, just like one of the kids. He was an accomplished roller skater and known for his smooth backwards glide.Milton will deeply be missed by all who knew and loved him. He leaves to mourn: his devoted wife Shirley; four children, David, Stacey, Sean and Brian; his father William Winder; step-mother Mildred Winder; one sister Pauline; three brothers, Frank, Robert and Arnet; four half-brothers, William, Stephen, Anthony and Robert; three half-sisters, Rita, Catherine and Jacqueline; one son-in-law Edward; two sisters-in-law, Clarice and Mary; two brothers-in-law, Robert and Wayne; six grandchildren, Alexander, Davionne, Karis, Gabrielle, Asia and Nyla; thirty-two nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and special friends.

Tributes

Milton J. Whorley

February 16, 1944 - July 24, 2003