Obituary of Aubery L. Whitaker

Aubery Lionel “Woody” Whitaker was born to James Whitaker and Mary Burnett Whitaker in Elizabeth, NJ. Raised in New York City and attended public schools. At the age of 17 he joined the United States Army receiving a bronze star and Combat Infantry Badge which he was highly proud of. He was honorably discharged in July of 1954. He joined the Hunter Squires Jackson American Legion post 1218 at that time. On December 5, 1953, Aubery married Corinne Marcelle Bunn and they lived for nearly 58 years until her transition in 2010 leading and serving together in and around the community. First living in Amityville and then moving to Copiague with his family. He and his family attended Bethel AME Church in Copiague before joining Grace Community Church in Amityville in 1984, serving as a trustee for a time. After working several jobs, he found a career with the United States Postal Service where he served for 25 years. He retired as the Long Island District Senior Driver Examiner/Instructor. He became a member of the Hollywood Lodge No. 92 Free and Accepted Masons, Prince Hall Affiliated in 1973 and served as worshipful master in 1990. He also served as secretary for several years, headed many committees and represented proudly. He was honored as a life member in 1999. He was also a member of the Excelsior Chapter No. 63 Order of the Eastern Stars and Served as Worthy Patron in 1981, 1982, 1993, 1994, and 1997 and also holding the elected position of secretary in 1994-1997. Woody was honored as a life member of the chapter as well. He was also a member of the Long Island Consistory No. 61, Brooklyn NY Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Masons earning the 32◦ as a Sublime Prince. In 1979, he became a member of the Ancient Excepted Arabic Order of the Mystic Shrine. In 1987 became and honorary past potentate. Also was a member of the Abu Bekr Temple, Brooklyn NY allowing him to became a member of the Long Island Shrine Club holding several offices and becoming a life member. He was also appointed to the position of Grand Junior Deacon of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge in 2001. He credited all of his achievements to his wife, Past Illustrious Commandress Corinne for standing by him through all of his endeavors. Aubery was called to his eternal reward on Saturday, November 13, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mary; his wife, Corinne; siblings, James Jr, Althea, Elaine, Richard (Dickie), Gwendolyn, Beverly and Winifred and his oldest son, Gerald Sr (Debbie). Left to mourn his memory and celebrate his life are his brother Van Sr, sister-in-law Jeanette. Daughters, Michelle and Patricia (Glenn). Sons, Reginald (Veleana), Jeffrey (Angelina) and Joseph. Grandchildren, Celeste, Gerald Jr, Crystal, Patrice, LaShawn, Kentral, Rahiem (Mendy), Rashawn, Richard, Reginald II, Jeffrey Jr, Jasmine, Meagan, Joseph Jr, Jessica, Erin (Vinny) and Kerri. Great-grandchildren, Elasia, Zayah, Jayla, Zaliyah, Zareemah, Zaria, Kingston, Ziva, Mia Aubree, Starmiya, Rahiem Jr, Jevon, Keyon, Mason, Eli, Zion, Brian, Alize, Priscilla and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, church family and friends.