William Norman Whitfield Jr.

William Norman Whitfield, Jr, 91, beloved husband, father, and Big Popa, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026 at his home. Born in Cleveland, SC on June 2, 1934, he was the only son of the late William Norman Whitfield, Sr and Estelle Purmuney Poole. Norman worked in textiles at Union Bleachery and Renfrew and then retired as a superintendent in the dye department at JP Stevens. He was a member of Scenic Hills Baptist Church where he was the last surviving member of The Royal Blue Band. Norman was also a Shriner and a Mason. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 20 years, Julia Grace Rigdon Whitfield; 5 children, Billy Whitfield (Patricia), stepson Tim Batson, Beth Bollinger (Randy), Janice Rodgers (David), and Crystal Clark (Spencer); 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Norman was preceded in death by his first wife of 50 years, Dorothy Elizabeth Fox Whitfield; a granddaughter, Angela Kristina Whitfield; and a grandson, David Scott Rodgers. Norman was a well-known guitar player, singer, and member of The Sunshine Boys who played live on WESC in the 1950’s. The family treasures the influence Norman had entertaining with his pickin’ and grinnin’ and oftentimes teaching and guiding the younger generations. His voice was almost indistinguishable from Hank Williams, perfecting his powerful yodel-like sound and country twang. He had a natural talent for singing and was a self-taught musician. Norman worked hard all his life and even built a lake house from the ground up for his family on Lake Hartwell. He was very quick-witted and could always make a joke out of any situation. He enjoyed life to the fullest and despite physical challenges, his mindset and spirit to live was unmatched. Norman and Dot often entertained in their home and lake house for family and friends to gather, play music, and sing, always a good time for all. Those memories are endless. The family cherishes the recordings of Norman singing before he lost his voice to throat cancer in 2001. That didn’t keep him from continuing to play guitar until well into his 80’s. Music was a visceral part of Norman and always part of his day whether he was playing or watching it on TV. He will be forever missed. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 from 12:00 pm-1:45 pm at The Howze Mortuary, 6714 State Park Rd, Travelers Rest, SC 29690. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm in The Chapel, with Masonic Rites. Entombment will be at Mountain View Memorial Park Mausoleum, 7 Duncan Rd, Travelers Rest, SC 29690. Memorials may be made to Scenic Hills Baptist Church, 10 Old Hwy 25, Travelers Rest, SC 29690. The family warmly invites everyone to please share stories and fond memories of how you knew Norman at www.thehowzemortuary.com. The Howze Mortuary is handling all arrangements. 864-834-8051

William Norman Whitfield Jr.

June 2, 1934 - May 15, 2026