**In Loving Memory of Coach Steve Allen Whitt**

Steve Allen Whitt, 79, of N. Augusta, SC, passed away on January 20, 2025. He was born in Augusta, GA., on August 23, 1945. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr. & Edna Oneta Slatten Whitt, and his brother, James Whitt Jr.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Gwendolyn Patrone Whitt; his dear son, Jonathan "Jay" James Whitt; Kathleen Whitt; his daughter-in-law, Sophia Grace Whitt; his cherished grandchild, Braxton Waldrop, his grandchild friend; and his adored boxer bulldog; Candy Cane. Steve is survived by numerous student athletes whom he coached into successful adulthood, as well as many dear friends who will profoundly miss him.

Steve, known to all as "Coach Whitt," was a true North Augustinian. Throughout his life, Steve was known for giving back to the community whether it was teaching, coaching, or instilling kindness in everyone that he touched. Coach Whitt would take the shirt off his back to give it to someone that needed it more than him. He was committed to doing his best to make everyone he met a better version of themselves.

A proud veteran of the Vietnam War, Steve served his country with honor as a proud member of the 319 Transportation unit. He was also an active member of the Sertoma Club, American Legion, N. Augusta Jaycees, and N. Augusta Country Club. Steve's generosity and commitment touched countless lives, and his presence in the community was felt far and wide. He was a business owner of Whitt's Greenhouses, N. Augusta Florist, coached at N. Augusta Jr. & Sr. High School, and he was a social man, often spending time dining out with friends around town. His zest for life and love of good company were evident to all who knew him.

Above all, Steve will be remembered for his deep love and devotion to his family. He was a doting husband, a proud father, and a grandfather whose heart swelled with joy for his grandchild. He adored golfing with his son, watching his granddaughter grow into the smart young woman she is today, and watching the Carolina Gamecocks & North Augusta Yellow Jackets with family and friends. His family was his pride and joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

Friends and family are welcome to join us in honoring Coach Whitt's memory. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Grace United Methodist Church at 2PM with the family receiving friends from 1PM-2PM before the service at the church. The burial will proceed at Pineview Memorial Gardens. Reverend Ashley Buchanan, Dr. Randy Cooper & Reverend Billy Slatten will be officiating the funeral. Pallbearers will include Tim Campbell, Bob Stevens, Clay Whitt, Doug Hixon, Joe Long and Leo Boehmer. Coach Whitt will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.

The family would like to ask that flowers are ordered through Bush's Flower Shop, 111 W. Pine Grove Ave, N. Augusta or call 803-279-7110. Flowers may be delivered to the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Edgefield Mercantile Funeral Home. Please share a memory or photo at www.edgefieldmercantilefh.com.