Garland “Tad” Redden Whitaker II

Garland “Tad” Redden Whitaker II, 62, of Newport, North Carolina, passed away at his home on Monday, February 9, 2026.

A funeral service to honor Tad’s life will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, February 13th at Munden Funeral Home, officiated by Rev. Norm Waligora. The family will receive friends from one hour prior to the service.

Garland, known to friends and family as Tad, was born on April 8, 1963, in Greenville, NC, to Garland and Betty Whitaker. Following high school, Tad continued his education at East Carolina University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History.

Tad’s faith was central to his life. He was deeply devoted to his Christian beliefs and found great meaning in worship and service through music. He was a gifted singer, a longtime member of his church choir, as well as community musical productions such as the Craven Messiah Chorus.

Tad had a true gift in the kitchen. Cooking was more than a skill, it was an expression of his love language. He followed that passion in his career as a chef and caterer, taking great pride in preparing meals that brought comfort and enjoyment to others.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his mother, Betty Gould Whitaker of Newport, NC; sisters, Holly Whitaker of Newport, NC and Diana Madlinger (Alex) of Mechanicsville, VA; brother, Everette Whitaker (Allison) of Newport, NC; and nieces and nephews, Mackenzie Whitaker, Peyton Whitaker, Jaxon Whitaker, Amanda Torres, Connor Livingston, Alex Madlinger, Ben Madlinger, and Joe DeSapio.

Tad was preceded in death by his father, Garland R. Whitaker I.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to Gramercy Christian School, 8187 US-70, Newport, NC 28570.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.