Abner Richard Whitfield (76) of Savannah, GA, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2023.  Richard was born on February 15th, 1947, to Leoris Brown Whitfield, and John Thomas Whitfield in Hawkinsville, GA.

Richard graduated from Willingham High School Class of 1965 in Macon, Georgia. At Willingham, Richard played HS football under Head Coach Billy Henderson and earned a full football scholarship to attend the University of Tennessee at Martin, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree. Richard was a three-year starter at tight end, a key member in UTM’s 1967 Tangerine Bowl win and also in the ACC College Championship. In 1991, Richard was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame at UT Martin for his exceptional achievements on and off the field.

Upon graduating from college in 1969, Richard accepted an assistant coaching job at Bainbridge High School in Bainbridge, GA, then moved on to Southwest High School in Macon, GA, where he was Defensive Coordinator.  After several years of coaching high school football, Richard began working with Time Insurance where he enjoyed a very successful 25-year career meeting many life-long friends. He retired from Time/Fortis Insurance in 2002.  Upon his retirement, Richard enjoyed spending time with his friends and family at his cabin in Marshallville, GA, hunting and fishing. 

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Leoris and John Whitfield, sisters Tommie Whitfield and Grace Melton Sandefur, brother-in-law Dr. Harry Broome Sr. and stepson Charles "Chaz" Robbins IV.  

Richard is survived by his daughter, Christy Whitfield Spurlin, and son-in-law, Pearce Spurlin, Jr. of Santa Rosa Beach, FL. Grandchildren: Riley, Pearce III, and Reese. Son, Brad Whitfield and daughter-in-law Dana Lyles Whitfield of Savannah, GA. Grandchildren: William and Catherine Anne. Sister Sandra Whitfield Broome and brother, John Whitfield and several nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved very much.

Services will be held on April 22, 2023, at Compassion Christian Church East Campus, 9150 Old Montgomery Road, Savannah, GA, 31406. Visitation from 2:00-3:00pm and a Celebration of Richard’s life at 3:00pm. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Bridges of Hope Drug and Alcohol Treatment Facility, 2845 Jackie Snider Trail, Stapleton Georgia 30823.