Beryl Elizabeth Whiting

Beryl Elizabeth Whiting, 80, was born December 30, 1932, in Eerste Rivier, Cape Province, South Africa, to Leslie Rundle and Madge Maude (DuPlessis) Halse. She passed away Sunday, February 3, 2013, in Whittier, California, following a massive stroke.



Mrs. Whiting grew up and went to school in South Africa, immigrating with her family to the United States as a young woman. They settled in Salt Lake City, Utah, where they sealed in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. On June 1, 1956 Beryl married the love of her life, James Gary Whiting, also in the Salt Lake City Temple. Later that year they moved to Whittier, California, where they raised their family and spent the rest of their lives.



Professionally, Beryl was, first and foremost, a homemaker. She loved her family and was always there for them. An entrepreneur at heart, she also managed to run businesses on the side such as those of florist and caterer.



Her membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was very important to Beryl. She was always very active and involved in the church. Her love of the Lord influenced her love towards others. She was always in the service of others, and she was extremely generous.



In her spare time, Beryl was most often found in her garden. Many say she was most happy there. She loved gardening and sharing the fruits of her labors with others. She also enjoyed cooking, reading, and sewing. She was an extremely intelligent person with a passion for the arts. She was a long-time member of the Whittier Cultural Arts Foundation and served as President at one time.



Beryl was very proud of her US citizenship, but she never gave up her love for South Africa--or her accent! She was very proud of that heritage as well.



Survivors include four children, James (Pamela), Richard (Beverly), Cheryl and John (Nannette) Whiting; 'adopted' daughter, Debbie Riche; sisters, LaVon Barker and Lesley Dawn Lawrence; 8 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren. Beryl was preceded in death by her husband, James; daughter, Heather Lynn; and sister Amy.



Viewing will take place from 10:00 - 10:45 am on Friday, February 15, 2013, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 15265 Mulberry Dr., Whittier, CA 90604. A Funeral Service will immediately follow at 11:00 am, after which she will be interred at Olive Lawn Memorial Park, 13926 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada, CA 90638.