Whitt Dillard Nottingham

June 5, 1951 - June 16, 2020

Whitt Dillard Nottingham, Jr. affectionately known as “Unks,” “Uncle Whitty,” “Nott,” and most of all “Daddy” was born to the late Edna (Johnson) and Whitt Nottingham on June 5, 1951 in Baltimore Maryland. He departed this life on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 surrounded by his wife Laura and daughter Laurelle. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, friend and mentor. Whitt lost his mother at an early age and was lovingly reared by his Dad, Whitt Sr., Grandmothers’ Ethel Smith and Irene Johnson, Sisters, Ethel and Yvonne in two loving Christian homes. The foundation of Christ was instilled by Grandma Ethel in Sandtown. The love of people and music began in Baltimore with Sister Ethel. While his love of the water and swimming started in Dundalk’s Turner Station with Grandma Irene and Sister Yvonne. Whitt spent spring and summers there to receive continued nurturing from his family. The Sandtown community played an important role in building his character. Family and neighbors encouraged Whitt’s participation in the swim team, Woodyear Street baseball and football teams. He enjoyed the Boy Scouts and reached the level of Eagle Scout. Families often gathered for cookouts, house parties and harmonizing. Whitt always enjoyed a good song and fun with sisters Ethel and Yvonne and their children: Jackie, Kevin, Nickie and Joe. Everyone had a good old fashioned time. Whitt was educated in the Baltimore City Public School system and graduated from Frederick Douglass High School (DHS). It was here his leadership and musical abilities were developed. Whitt had a smooth tenor voice with excellent pitch. He was a member of the Student Council, Hall Monitors, the DHS Glee Club and the traveling musical ensemble, which included the DHS choir, band and the dance club. He also volunteered with the community church choir. On that choir he met a lovely young lady, Laura Johnson. Friends who remained close throughout his life were a part of this DHS family. They continue today as members of the Class of 1971 Alumni Association. Whitt attended Morgan State University (MSU) in 1971 studying physical therapy. There he formed more friendships which lasted his entire life. He became a life member of the National Society of Pershing Rifles Alumni Association at MSU. This group of men and women mentor collegiate military students and are “serving world wide in support of homeland defense and the global war on terrorism.” In 1972 Whitt married his soulmate, Laura Nottingham. They were happily married for just shy of 48 years. From this union they were blessed with their only child, a beautiful and caring daughter, Laurelle. Whitt worked for Greenspring Dairy until 1974 when he joined the Baltimore City Fire Department (BCFD). Upon graduation from the BCFD Training Academy, Whitt began his life’s work in November 1974. He graduated and was assigned to Engine Company 17 where he served his first five years. In 1979 he requested a transfer to Engine Company 36 “the Old School”. There he developed his skills as a highly esteemed and revered firefighter. During his career, he acquired numerous certifications, awards and recognitions. With a love of athletics and water sports, in 1985 he became a certified diver and traveled worldwide as a recreational diver. Whitt swam the waters of Micronesia, Fiji, Truk islands, The Caribbean and Mexico, to name a few. He was also member of the Black Divers Association. Whitt and Jimmy Hayes later joined the BCFD Dive Rescue team as the first Black Certified Dive Rescue Technicians. This opened doors for Whitt to become a volunteer diver at the National Aquarium in Baltimore (NAIB). It also gave him an opportunity for a part-time career as an Emergency Medical Technician. Whitt helped patients and staff with his lively and upbeat attitude. Whenever possible, he would assist the community with career opportunities. Whitt joined and maintained an active membership with the Vulcan Blazers, Inc. a professional Association of African American Firefighters. This is an affiliate of the International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters. While there, Whitt served in many capacities: Chairman Board of Directors, Chairman of the Southeast Regional Conference, Co-Chairman of the 25 Year Anniversary Committee and various community outreach projects. Whitt later renewed his faith in Christ and convinced Laura to join Christian Life Church. He lived his faith outside the church walls by mentoring children and helping families in the community. As recent as four years ago he joined the Sandtown community in supporting fundraisers for back to school and food drives. He had a huge heart and was always available to provide a helping hand to all in need. His travels during retirement as an avid jazz and sports fan took the family on great trips to North America, Europe and Northern Africa. He attended and loved the Montreal, Cancun, Mediterranean and Hampton VA jazz festivals. Whitt officially retired on August 9, 2006. He adjusted well to retirement living and would not let “Sweet Laura” give him any “honey do” projects. He became a member of the BCFD Retirees Fire Fighter and Officers Breakfast Club. While there, he enjoyed lively conversation and sumptuous meals. Whitt enjoyed life as a retiree and would fill the house with music from jazz to gospel to oldies. He also enjoyed cheering for the Ravens, the Orioles and the MSU Bears football teams. He lived by one of his favorite scriptures Nehemiah 8:20 “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Whitt fought a good fight and kept the faith. He loved meeting and talking to people. He believed in helping his family and others succeed. He will live on in our hearts forever. The family sincerely thanks Chief Roman Clark, The Baltimore City Fire Department, The Vulcan Blazers, Inc., The Retired Baltimore City Fire Fighters and Officers Breakfast Club, The National Society of Pershing Rifles Alumni, Morgan State University and March Funeral Home for assisting in the coordination of these services. Whitt’s legacy and love will continue to live in the hearts of his devoted wife, Laura; daughter Laurelle; sisters Yvonne Wesson (Joseph Sr.); Leta Smith (Harry); Loveeda Carter; Brother-in-law Louis Johnson (Linda); loving niece Jacqueline Washington (Eric); nephews Kevin Barber (Shelly); Joseph Wesson Jr.; Roy Letterlough and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and unforgettable colleges and friends. The Care Team Dr. Eric Fisher, Carmen RN, Billy Weakland, PT, Elaine Wanjohi and Pili Wood. Devoted close friends, Harry Smith, Deputy Chief Arlen Doles, Lt. Vernese Hilton, Charles Brown, Herb Chambers and Mabel Westley. The family has requested a donation in honor of Whitt D. Nottigham to be made to: Langston Hughes Business and Community Resource Ctr. Please make checks payable to: Youth Educational Services 5011 Arbutus Avenue Baltimore MD 21215 Thank you