Perry Markel Whittington

Markel Whittington, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully on May 3, 2024. He was 74 years old. 

Born on August 17, 1949 at home in Braxton, Mississippi to Charles Hansford Whittington and Della Pierce Whittington, Markel and his twin brother Mark were the youngest of 10 children. 

After graduating from Harrisville High School in 1967, Markel earned his degree in business administration from Mississippi College in 1971.

Markel's journey started at McRae’s department store in 1969, where he would eventually become Store Manager. It was during his tenure at McRae’s that he met the love of his life, Elizabeth “Libby” Givens. They exchanged vows in the summer of 1974 in Pensacola, FL. Following their marriage, Markel and Libby relocated to Tupelo, MS. In 1979, Markel left McRae’s and purchased Middleton Office Products.

Markel and Libby fell in love with Tupelo and found it to be an ideal place to raise their family. They were active members of First United Methodist Church and formed cherished friendships there that would last over forty years. Markel also served as a board member of Alpha House and the Boy Scouts of America, where he would receive the Silver Beaver Award. He was a proud Rotarian since 1979 and was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary International. Markel served three terms as a City Councilman for Ward 1 from 2009 to 2021.  

While he was a successful businessman, well-respected elected official, and active community member, his primary devotion was always to his family. No title was more important than that of husband, father, and later grandfather. Markel's greatest joy came from simple moments spent with his grandchildren, whether it was sharing ice cream, playing in bouncy houses, or enjoying the beach together as a family.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Libby, his parents Mr. & Mrs. Charles H. Whittington, his sisters Joy and Carolyn, brother Bill and sisters-in-law, Betty Whittington, Sally Whittington, and Opal Whittington. 

He is survived by his children, Preston Markel (Anna) and Pierce Marion (Brittney); four grandchildren—Stanley Pierce (13), Catherine Elizabeth (9), Charlotte Elliott (5), and Francis “Frankie” Rhodes (2); brothers Charlie, Ken, Floyd, Bill, Keith, Mark; favorite cousin Elton; and his beloved dog, Magnolia Blue “Maggie.”

Visitation will be from 9 until 11 am on Saturday, May 11, 2024 with the funeral service to follow immediately after at 11:00.  Both will be held at First United Methodist Church in Tupelo.  Markel loved the community of Tupelo and the life it gave him and his family.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in Markel’s name to a charity or community organization of your choice that contributes to the success of Tupelo and North Mississippi.