James "Jim" C. Whiteley

James C. "Jim" Whiteley, age 77 of Akron, OH, was a man of steadfast character and deep devotion. He passed away peacefully on September 30, 2024 at the Cleveland Clinic Hospice Care Center on Ridgewood Road following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Born on August 6, 1947 as the beloved only child of Joe and Emily Whiteley, Jim grew up in the small town of Connellsville, Pennsylvania, where he fostered his lifelong loyalty to the Pittsburgh Steelers. His early years were filled with promise, and he later embarked on a journey that would lead him through both academic and professional achievement.

A proud graduate of West Virginia University, Jim earned dual degrees in mathematics and chemistry in 1968, and it was there in Morgantown that he met the love of his life, Kristine . Together, they formed a bond that would span 56 devoted years of marriage. Jim furthered his education with a master’s degree in business management from the University of Massachusetts, sharpening the skills that would drive his successful career.

Jim's professional life began at Kelly Springfield Tire, a subsidiary of The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. His unwavering dedication, eye for detail, and natural leadership quickly propelled him through the ranks. His journey took him to the heart of the tire industry, where he became a respected figure, first as Manager of Quality Control at Goodyear’s Lawton, Oklahoma plant, and later as Vice President of Quality Control in Akron, Ohio. A particularly cherished chapter of his career was a stint in Luxembourg, where Jim and his family developed a shared passion for travel and cuisine.

Despite his many professional accomplishments, Jim's greatest pride was his family. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Kristine ; his cherished daughter, Beth and her husband Michael DeLuca ; and his treasured granddaughter Sarah and her husband Matthew Grauel . Jim's legacy lives on in the laughter and joy of his great-grandson, Jackson James Grauel , who carries forward his name and spirit.

Known for his sharp wit, intellectual brilliance, and the deep love he held for those closest to him, Jim was a man who inspired admiration and affection in equal measure. His presence, though quiet, was a source of strength and comfort to his family and friends. He will be profoundly missed, but his memory will continue to be a beacon of love and guidance.

A private family remembrance will be held at a later date to honor Jim’s extraordinary life. In this time of loss, the Whiteley family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate caregivers—the “angels”—at the Cleveland Clinic Hospice Center. Their warmth, kindness, and tireless dedication provided Jim with peace and dignity in his final days, for which words alone cannot suffice.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research .

Arrangements have been entrusted to The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road, Akron, OH 44333.