Obituaries

April Whitt

January 28, 1957 - December 19, 2025

April Whitt, a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, teacher, and author, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2025, in Lakeland, Florida, at the age of 68. Born on January 28, 1957, in West Palm Beach, Florida. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Central Florida in 1982. She was a radiant spirit who touched the lives of many throughout her journey.

April was preceded in death by her loving parents Paul and Phyliss Mitchell who cherished her. April married her devoted husband, Gary Whitt, on October 23, 1983, in Winter Haven, Florida. Together, the Lord grew their relationship to Him and each other. 

She is survived by her two sons, Andrew (Jackie) and Daniel, as well as her three cherished grandchildren, Natalee, Mitchell, and Benjamin. April found great joy in her family and embraced her role as a mother and grandmother with a tender heart. She is also survived by her brother, Philip Mitchell, who holds dear the memories of their shared childhood.

April trusted the Lord early in life and continued to grow in her faith, love and walk with Him throughout her life. The Lord gave her a gentle loving spirit and she was a mentor to those around her; we will dearly miss her. She was a devoted member of Christ Memorial Baptist Church in Lakeland and her church community was an important source of support and fellowship, where she formed lasting friendships and shared her love for God. April was known to fervently pray for her family and many others in their time of need. 

She was a special needs teacher and passionate about the care and needs of her students and their parents. In addition to her passion for teaching, April was a gifted writer and self-published several children’s books. She was a member of various writer’s groups and spoke at conferences about her knowledge and passion for writing. 

April loved reading the Word and Christian testimonials, playing with her grandkids, writing, walking and swimming at the beach, painting, gardening and being outdoors. 

Her tender heart will be remembered by her family, friends, coworkers, students and her church body. April had a playful side to her that only a few knew and we will miss the way she could spar with the best practical joker or respond with a quick-witted comment to any challenger.  

April Whitt leaves behind a rich legacy of love, creativity and compassion. Those that watched her battle this cancer saw her walk with the Lord through it all. And so, my dear April, we will remember your example and know that all we that are secured in the salvation of Lord Jesus Christ shall see you again my love, until then, we will miss you!