Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker was born January 2, 1964 in Norfolk, VA to Raymond Whitaker, Sr and Novella Whitaker. He passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2019. Pernell graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1982 and later received an honorary Bachelor’s degree from Norfolk State University. His humble beginnings started in Youngs Park Housing Community where he was inspired to start his boxing career. He became an American Professional Boxer in 1984 when he won the Olympic gold medal. He went on to become a four‐weight world champion and is considered, without a doubt, the best pound‐for‐pound boxer. Pernell was inducted into several Hall of Fames including the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.
Outside of the ring, Sweet Pea served his community and the youth in everything that he did. He sponsored many events at Norfolk State University and spent countless hours training youth at boxing camps and gyms. He also spoke at city council meetings on behalf of the residents in support of community improvements.
Pernell is preceded in death by his father, Raymond Whitaker, Sr. and son, Pernell Whitaker, Jr. He leaves to cherish his memory a daughter, Tiara Mizelle (Lenard); three sons, Domonique Whitaker, Dontavious Whitaker, and Devon Whitaker; grandchildren, Trinity Mizelle, Dontavious Whitaker, Jr, Tristyn Mizelle and ZoraReign Whitaker; two brothers, Raymond Whitaker, Jr, Raynell Whitaker; four sisters; Zelda Brown, Sylvonia Whitaker, Lucinda Manley and Monique Williams; along with six aunts, an uncle and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family and friends
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Personal Service, Peace of Mind, Pleasant Memories
© Metropolitan Funeral Service
Brett Jenkins Sr. says
July 17, 2019 at 11:13 amWhat a Life, He made a difference in so many Lives. May his Legacy live on in those he Loved, and those who Loved him.
We do not have all the answers, but God does. Call on him in your time of Need and He shall lead you through.
BTW Class Of “82”
Emma and Antoinette Johnson says
July 19, 2019 at 5:32 pmWith Heartfelt Sympathy and Prayer to the Whitaker Family: Our Hearts Go Out to You
At times like this, we realize just how much it means to have faith, family, and caring friends, Hope these blessings will be your strength during this time of sadness’
May God be your tender comfort in sorrow and bring peace strength in the days to come.
From, Emma Lou and Antoinette Johnson with loved
Gwen (bland) joyner says
July 17, 2019 at 11:50 amI would like to express my condolence to the family of Pernell “sweet pea” Whitaker may God bless his family n friends in this time of need…God bless my prayers are with you
Pamela Scott says
July 17, 2019 at 12:25 pmMy condolences to the family of Pernell Whitaker. I am so sorry for your loss. God makes no mistakes, and Pernell’s work on this old earth was done. Job well done Pernell, “You can come on in”
Apostle James Moody youngs park BTW class of 86 now residence dallas texas says
July 17, 2019 at 1:07 pmRest in peace my Brother
To the Family weeping in may endure for a night but Joy comes in the morning
Be not dismay what ever betie God will take care of you
Douglas Broadie says
July 17, 2019 at 11:12 pmRest Easy Black Man,may Allah give your family peace .
Rosemary says
July 17, 2019 at 1:47 pmRest in peace, your weary journey is over you are free of all the worldly cares.
Joseph & Barbara Johnson says
July 20, 2019 at 6:07 amRest Easy My Friend, God Bless ( Class of 1982 ) Job Well Done Joseph Joe Joe Johnson
AL C says
July 20, 2019 at 8:12 amWalk By Faith Not By Sight.. stay strong on this pilgrim journey of life.!!
Milton C. Reid says
July 17, 2019 at 1:57 pmRest in peace my beloved cousin. For years you have been the benchmark of this family. Making all of us proud. You may have left us too soon, but we are encouraged in the fact that God don’t make mistakes, and to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. May God bless you and the family!!!
Sheila (Jenkins )Linyear says
July 17, 2019 at 1:58 pmTo the Whitaker and Wiggins family, I am so sorry for your loss, May God be your strength, for comfort, HE WILL SEE YOU THROUGH!
Anthony Ralph says
July 17, 2019 at 3:28 pmYo man. I looked at the news did night at found out that a man got hit by a car and was killed. The next day I thought it was just a dream until I found out it was you. I’m going to miss everything about you Big Homie. I know you and Junior it’s up in the skies vibing right now he’s probably saying pop how you get here so fast. I just know one thing you the champ and you will always be the the champ. If it wasn’t for you Norfolk wouldn’t be on the map right now but the whole world recognize the name your name Pernell Sweet Pea Whitaker. I love you always big homie rest easy until we meet each other on the other side. Your Stickman DJ Birddog.???
John Fish Speller, Old School Legend says
July 17, 2019 at 4:25 pmMy sincere condolences to the Whitaker family. Thinking of you and wishing you moments of peace and comfort as you heal during this difficult time. It was indeed a honor knowing Sweet Pea and will miss the conversations we shared. Our family is keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Karen says
July 17, 2019 at 4:28 pmMy first remember of you was when I was about 14 or 15 I met you at a center. I was much older then you. You should have been about 9 . . As living in California I was so proud of you. You put Norfolk Va on the map..I met you again one day and I stated how small your hand was. You stated to me how powerful your hand was in knocking a fighter out..We should be celebrating now because you have made it to the other side. You are with your heavenly father now. Your job is well done. My condolences goes out to the family. He left you with good memories.
S. Hinton says
July 17, 2019 at 5:49 pmI’m still in shock over the passing of Pernell “SweetPea” Whitaker he was a true champion . May he Rest Peacefully and my sincere condolences to his entire family.
One the of the best boxing events we attended was @ Norfolk Scope on 04.09.1994 – Norfolk State Marching Band played as SweetPea walked to the ring……he was the best pound for pound
He also shared the birthday of my Mother – Jan 2nd – that also made him special
Tony Fleming says
July 17, 2019 at 5:58 pmBig fan for years, Rest In Peace god have you now…you’re in boxing heaven with Ali and the rest of the greats.??
MISSY REGINA FAITH WILLIAMS says
July 17, 2019 at 6:15 pmI AM SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF A FRIEND. WE ARE PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY. MAY GOD GIVE YOU ALL STRENGTH TO GO THREW THIS TIME. YOU ALL ARE IN OUR PRAYERS.HE WILL TRULY BE MISSED. GOD BLESS
Trimeika Burden says
July 17, 2019 at 6:19 pmR.I.H Sweet Pea Our Hometown Hero!! Prayers to the Family. We Love you Champ!
Haymond NEWELL says
July 17, 2019 at 6:27 pmHe was a great man and will be missed so take you rest now we love you but God loves you more.
Avon Murphy says
July 17, 2019 at 6:57 pmOur thoughts and prayers are with the Whitaker Family, May God give each of you comfort and strength.
The Murphy’s
Rinnie Powell says
July 17, 2019 at 7:13 pmYou will be truly missed,my friend, my buddy,and classmate.Rest High in Heaven
Cynthia Beal says
July 17, 2019 at 7:27 pmCindy Manley my thoughts and prayers are with you and the entire Whitaker family. I pray God’s peace and comfort to you all. Remember during this time that Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal . God bless
D Brown says
July 17, 2019 at 8:19 pmMay your soul rest peacefully Champ
Aisha Thompson says
July 17, 2019 at 9:29 pmRest In Peace “SweetPea” God has given you wings and a new pair of box gloves , and a robe with your name on it. I know that you are boxing in heaven and you will always be 6 time world champion. You have made to heaven to be reunited with son pernell jr. The City of Norfolk and the Whitaker family will always keep your memories alive. Rest Easy Cuz Pernell “sweetpea” Whitaker Until we meet again.
Aisha Thompson & Houston LeeX
Danie Taylor says
July 18, 2019 at 12:39 amMay God be with his family at this sad time. A good friend that I grew up with and went to school with.
Adriel Maai Bilal Malik says
July 19, 2019 at 10:11 amMay God Be Pleased with Him and May His Comfort Be With All The Family
Bushead says
July 18, 2019 at 7:09 amThanks for all the memories that u shared with us ,my condolences goes out to the Whitaker family.god has a true champion in heaven,there is not another Pernell sweet pea whitaker,!!!!rest in peace
Angel (arrington) Baskerville says
July 18, 2019 at 9:35 amSending huge hugs and continued prayers to the family, love yall. As an union we shall get through this with great memories that make us smile or burst out laughing and know that Unc was extremely loved &respected! Tell lil Pern and Reddog I said Hi!
Angel, Terrell,&Fam
Tonya Alston-Carroll says
July 18, 2019 at 12:06 pmPlease accept my heartfelt condolences, words cannot begin to express the sadness you are feeling right now, but I am praying for you to get through this. God bless you and may the soul of Pernell Whitaker Sr. “Sweet Pea” “Norfolk’s Son” rest in the everlasting peace of Christ Almighty. We will truly miss his Legacy.
Pamela Gary - Blanco says
July 18, 2019 at 12:24 pmSending heartfelt condolences to the Whitaker family. “Sweet Pea” it was an honor to meet you in 1994 at the Norfolk Scope, as I was one of the “ring girls” at the event. God Bless, May you rest in peace Champ!
Larry and Pam Blanco
LaTasha Person-Monroe says
July 18, 2019 at 1:18 pmRIP to a Norfolk legend!!
Gail S. Peters says
July 18, 2019 at 2:42 pmI remember meeting “Sweet Pea” years ago at a local club in our area. He was such a gentleman, real down to earth. He has made us proud. Sorry he had to leave so soon. It’s said that our heavenly father does not make mistakes. Rest well Mr. Whitaker. You are in God’s hands now.
Rev. Dr. James Edwards , lll says
July 18, 2019 at 2:45 pmMy heartfelt condolences to the family of Pernell Whitaker , Sr. I did not know him personally but knew the roots from which he had come. Pernell’s father and I , Raymond Whitaker , who I affectionally called ” Big Whit ” because of the skills he had with his hands, grew up together in the Huntersville section of Norfolk, on Galt Street. ” Big Whit ‘s ” boy did well with the skills he had in his hands.
Linda D. Parker, (Formerly Williams) - Chicago, IL says
July 18, 2019 at 3:32 pmWhitaker Family,
It is with a heavy heart to express our loss of your beloved Sweet Pea. We all have wonderful stories of Sweet Pea, and that’s exactly what I (we) should all keep close to our hearts. Hold on to all the love, laughter and memories of Sweet Pea to sustain each of you for the days and nights ahead. All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. (2nd Corinthians: 1 v 3). What a wonderful soul and man he was, with such a bright smile that will truly be missed by all. God’s Peace and Love I leave unto each of you each day. (The Williams Family) Drake, Linda, Annette-(Lil Biscuit), Freddy- (Roberts Park)
Sylvester Starkes says
July 18, 2019 at 4:27 pmMany condolences to the family of Pernell Whitaker “Sweat Pea”! May God give you strength and peace in such a time. Remember that, “earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal!”
Love,
Dr. Sylvester Starkes and Family
Reginald C. Williams says
July 18, 2019 at 5:55 pmOur condolences to the family of Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whittaker. We pray that God will comfort you and give you peace as you remember such a great man who’s heart was as big as his name. May God give you the strength to live with the memory of the legacy “Pete” left with you.
Gatsie Farmer says
July 18, 2019 at 8:42 pmTo the Family
Sweet Pea helped a lot of us (Little Folks) and others. On behalf of us and many grateful local area folk we thank your Dad. He was TRULY our CHAMP-
ION in and out of the boxing ring.. Thank you Sweet Pea may God Bless your soul.
Bill and Becky Fentress says
July 18, 2019 at 10:41 pmMay the Peace of God be with The Whitaker family at this time of sadness…Thank you Sweet Pea for giving our Community hope, you represented Virginia well, your legacy will always be among us, Rest In Heaven…
Chakeeta Harvey Rivers says
July 18, 2019 at 11:24 pmGod bless your soul rest my brother, until we meet again
LaVerne' & Ernest Jones Jr. says
July 19, 2019 at 1:49 amTo The Whitaker and Wiggins Families. Our condolences to you all and continue your blessings.
Pernell “Sweet Pea” is gone and the Legacy he left Norfolk VA and the boxing rings he stood in will be in everyone’s history of sports forever.
May the Lord hold the Families together with the Love Pernell gave while on Earth. Bless you All. Praise God.
DiAnne C. Montgomery says
July 19, 2019 at 2:12 amGod bless each member of the Pernell “Seeetpea” Whitaker family..He was an amazing mentor to many and you have a legacy hero in your family..rest on “Sweetpea”. God needed your smile. God bless each family member for many days and years of strength and beautiful memories..my prayers are with each of you during this GREAT loss.
John Martin says
July 19, 2019 at 6:28 amSending my deepest condolences to the family of “P”!! Unbelievable loss!! Norfolk ‘s very own. Our champ for eternity. Rest Easy,
Sweet Pea!!
Mike Supan says
July 19, 2019 at 6:52 amGoodbye champ. Thank you
Dorothy Williams says
July 19, 2019 at 12:11 pmTo our Son of Norfolk, VA Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker Rest in Peace, you had such a humble spirit you served your community well. Thank you for being one of the persons who fought to keep B.T. Washington High in the location where it is now, you taught young middle age and the elderly that you can rise above your circumstances it is not how you start out in life it is where you end. Thank you for being my “Hero”
The Fennells says
July 19, 2019 at 12:37 pmRest in Paradise Champ. Praying for the Whitaker family.
Leon Muhammad says
July 19, 2019 at 1:54 pmChamp I miss you I am raying for your children and family
Leon Muhammad
Boxing Hall of Fame
Rosalind Jones says
July 19, 2019 at 2:24 pmRIP
Lamont Simmons says
July 19, 2019 at 2:30 pm“My deepest sympathy goes out to the family, friends, fans, colleagues and n eighbors on the passing of the beloved ‘Sweetpea’. He repped our comminity well. He is sorely missed.”
Jo Logan says
July 19, 2019 at 3:51 pmWe never know the second, minute nor hour when our God will call us home. We must be ready when He does. Our hearts are heavy today but know Sweet Pea is safe and his work on earth is done. He fought the good fight..we are so proud of and we love him. Our dearest Ms. Novella, Zelda (sister in law), nieces and nephews you are in our thoughts and prayers.
RIP our beloved “Sweet Pea”,
Logan and Brown Family
Sherry Riddick says
July 19, 2019 at 3:54 pmMy deepest condolence to the Whitaker family. Know that God only picks the best and he pick one of his angels to come home to be with him . My prayers are with you and your family
Sharon Askew Whitten says
July 19, 2019 at 5:14 pmMy Prayers Go Out To The Whitaker Family.I Am Sorry For Your Loss.
Laurice Yarn says
July 19, 2019 at 6:27 pmTo Dominique and family: My sympathy and prayers are with you in the loss of your love one. May God give you all that you need today and everyday!! He was an awesome boxer, father, and friend!! Please let me know if I can help in any way.
Laurice Yarn
Mary Ames-Jenkins says
July 19, 2019 at 6:30 pmMay God’s blessing be with the family of Sweet Pea, I had the opportunity of meeting him in Houston, TX during the early 1990s while he was preparing for one of his big fights. When he finished working out he took the time to spar (verbally) about living on Cumberland Street. It was agreed by both of us that Norfolk had changed so much. He had that magical smile and a warm heart. That day was magical for me to see a home boy.
sandra overton says
July 19, 2019 at 7:04 pmMay God gie your famiiy
The stength and courage you need thru this difficult time
Sandra Bray Overton
BTW Class of ’71
Steward family says
July 19, 2019 at 7:37 pmMay God’s be with the family of sweet pee Whiltker..I send my love and condolences to the family..love you always and forever sweet pee…Young’s park for life… R.I.P..
Phyllis Stith says
July 19, 2019 at 10:00 pmTo the Whitaker Family
Pete made all of us believe we could fly because he was the first CHAMP that we knew in our generation.
His legacy will live on because the mark he left is untouchable.
Ralette Skippy Williams Robinson says
July 19, 2019 at 10:37 pmEarth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal I send my deepest condolences to the Whitaker family. May God continue to give you strength as you go through this trying time.
Dr. Mordecai L. Smith says
July 20, 2019 at 2:56 amTo the Whitaker Family;
On behalf of the Smith Family from Bellamy Woods (next door neighbors), please accept our heartfelt sympathies and condolences. We shared lots of great memories.
Dr. Mordecai L. Smith, Sr.
Mrs. Dorothy D. Smith
Ms. Mechelle L. Smith
Mr. Mordecai L. Smith, Jr.
Mr. Matthew L. Smith
Keicia White says
July 20, 2019 at 7:34 amMy deepest condolences and prayers to the Whitaker family and friends. May God give you all continued strength in the trying days, weeks and months ahead. Be there for one another to lean on. Keicia & Demart White
Michele D. Davis says
July 20, 2019 at 8:22 amRest easy in the arms of the Lord, champ. My thoughts and prayers with the family at this time.
E Valentine says
July 20, 2019 at 8:56 amPraying for your family,fans,and friends as you are laid to rest today.You left a mark that can never be erased…
WILLIAM G says
July 20, 2019 at 10:01 amI HAVE BEEN A FAN OF SWEET PEA AND HE WILL BE MISSED
Astrid Alexander says
July 20, 2019 at 9:39 amMay god strengthen and comfort the family
John Brinkley says
July 20, 2019 at 10:07 amThe greatest boxer ever pound-for-pound rest in peace champ sweety d
Rev. John M. Hassell says
July 20, 2019 at 11:47 amThe champ will forever be in our hearts… As the hymnologist wrote, “Earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal”… Farewell my brother may the angels carry you to your place of rest…
A. L. Boddie says
July 20, 2019 at 11:48 amTo the Whitaker family, we send our deepest prayers and condolences to you during this difficult time. We pray for your strength and guidance. God Bless you!!
Lady M says
July 20, 2019 at 1:04 pmGreat Man, big heart, small beginnings and a humble spirit. You are and always will be simply the best!! I salute you champ. Job well done…
Felicia Bragg says
July 21, 2019 at 3:32 pmPete did an awesome job he touched so many lives as well as making a difference in his community. Pete will be missed and always remembered. May God strengthen the Whitaker family.
Felicia Bragg
Jayda Davis says
July 21, 2019 at 11:39 pmI met Sweet Pete in 2012 at a tournament at the Marriott in Chesapeake,Virginia. Every since then we were close. He thought my dad how to fight South Paw and encouraged me to go for the Olympics for boxing. I wasn’t going to do it but he was very encouraging. He didn’t care that I was a woman like other coaches did.I’m going to do it for him. Going to win that Gold Medal for him ???
Joshua Whitaker iii says
August 1, 2019 at 10:10 pmTo my Whitaker family sorry for your loss your in my heart love you cousin going to miss you champ sweet pea Whitaker love you cuz !!!!
P 757.628.1000 • F 757.545.9148