Miss Catherine R. Whitney, 99, of Suffolk, Va., died Thursday, Feb. 7, 2013, at Nansemond Pointe Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was a native of Suffolk and the daughter of the late Nazareth and Lizzie Eley Whitney. Catherine was predeceased by her sister, Bannie W. Spruill; two brothers, Tennis Whitney and Robert S. Whitney Sr.; and her great-niece, Catherine Whitney.

Miss Whitney was the oldest member of her beloved First Baptist Church, 112 Mahan St., where she served faithfully until her health declined. Catherine was a proud graduate of the 1931 class of Nansemond Institute. She continued her education at Virginia State College (University) where she received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in the field of education. Catherine began her teaching career in Virginia and retired from the public schools of Cambridge, Md., after 40 years of service.

Catherine leaves to cherish her memory her niece, Brenda Whitney Broadnax (Bonhuer), of Atlanta, Ga.; nephew, Robert S. Whitney Jr., of Portsmouth, Va.; sister-in-law, Betty C. Whitney, of Suffolk, Va.; and many friends.

A funeral service will be held at noon, Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013, in the chapel of Crocker Funeral Home with Dr. Steven G. Blunt, officiating pastor. Interment will follow at Carver Memorial Cemetery. The family will assemble at 115 Halifax St. at 11 a.m. for the procession to the funeral home. Crocker Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.crockerfuneralhome.com.