Cordell Witherspoon

Cordell Witherspoon was born August 22, 1949, to the late Theresa Reva Blakely and William Charles Witherspoon in Franklin, Tennessee. He departed this earthly realm on Monday, April 8. 2024 in Owensville, Missouri. Cordell accepted Christ as a youth as he grew up at First Missionary Baptist Church.

Cordell affectionately called "Chub" was a graduate of Franklin High School, Class of 1967. Ever the trailblazer, he voluntarily transferred (a year early) from Natchez High School at the inception of integration. Enduring many challenges of the times, he still persevered. Always an exceptional student, he briefly attended Tennessee State University before choosing a different path, enlisting in the United States Air Force. As with everything in his life, Cordell eagerly pursued excellence in his military career, servicing military aircraft in both war and peace times around the globe, then retiring at the rank of Master Sergeant on Feb. 28, 1989. During his Air Force career, Cordell received numerous commendations including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. In May 2017, Cordell was recognized for his wartime service by the Department of Defense with an "honor flight" to Washington, DC allowing him to reflect upon the memorials of the wars in which he served.

In high school, college and the professional football world, Cordell was the ultimate supporter/fan known to all as "Pops".Always ready to show his unbridled enthusiasm, Pops was often captured on the big screen cheering "Go Dawgs!" Whether it was Monday night with the Eagles, Chargers or Super Bowl with the Panthers, Pops was that 1000% supporter!

Above all, the greatest joy and honor of Cordell's life was his unparalleled love for his family. When he loved you, it was with his whole being! Nothing made Cordell happier than to be with his loved ones. His joy and excitement was palpable for weeks ahead of any family gathering. His devotion to his children and grandchildren was simply unparalleled. From football, to volleyball to academics, to whatever, Pops was there! Blessed to have loved and been loved, he was preceded in death by his wife Nora Cooper Witherspoon. To this union, Will and Kir were given. Later in life, he found love again, marrying the late Julie Malone Witherspoon, adding more love to our family with bonus children Jason (Paula) and Jennifer (Byron) and their children.

Cordell is lovingly remembered by his son, William (Jenny) Witherspoon and daughter, Kir Enoch; sister, Reva Witherspoon; brothers, Fred Hamilton, III, James (Emma) Witherspoon and Keith (Christy) Witherspoon; granddaughters, Layne, Shaye, Maya, Wren; grandsons, Asim, Greg, Liam and Dutch & 8   great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews, Lisa (Pokey) Hamilton Chatman, Darryl Hamilton, Jaye and Alexis Witherspoon, Tiffany McCullough and Brandon, Elizabeth, Jacob, and William Allen Witherspoon; and hosts of extended family and friends.