Deverl E Whitehead, formerly of Grabill, Indiana, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, at the age of 89. He was born on May 13, 1936, in Pierceton, Indiana, to Dale and Margaret (Garner) Whitehead. For the past four years, he resided at Heritage Pointe in Fort Wayne, where he received compassionate and dedicated care.

On August 14, 1966, Deverl married Mary Baker in Lagro, Indiana. Mary survives, along with their two sons - Drew (Rachel Slucki) Whitehead of Elburn, Illinois, and Derek (Sherry) Whitehead of Columbus, Indiana. Deverl was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren - Karina, Erika, Carson and Reece Whitehead - and two step-grandchildren - Liza Blandford and Katelyn Barton.

He is also survived by his sister, Jo Ann (Bette Jo Green) Whitehead of Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, and his brother, Murvel (Mary Lou) Whitehead of Warsaw, Indiana. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Donald Whitehead and Norman Whitehead.

A 1954 graduate of Pierceton High School, Deverl earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Manchester College in 1958 and a master's degree in education from Indiana University in 1966. He began his teaching career in North Manchester and Bremen, Indiana, and spent the majority of his professional life with East Allen County Schools at Harlan Elementary, where he taught until retiring in 1998. Teaching brought him great joy, and he cherished his time with students and colleagues.

Deverl was an active member of Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren. He enjoyed gardening, especially planting perennial flowers, ornamental trees and shrubs. His adventurous spirit took him to all 50 states and 80 countries. He followed high school and college sports with passion and was an enthusiastic fan of Indiana University basketball. He never missed an opportunity to share stories and laughter with family, friends and new acquaintances.

He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, love of learning and teaching, and the quiet strength with which he supported those around him. His joy in gardening brought smiles to all who saw the beauty he nurtured. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, former students, friends, and community.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 27, at Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren, 2810 Beacon Street in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The family will receive visitors from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, with a service to follow at 3:00 pm.

Deverl's final resting place will be Scipio Cemetery in Allen County, Indiana. Memorial gifts may be directed to Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren or to the New Community Project at 117 Nature Road, Blue Ridge, VA 24064.