Louise Brooking Whitaker

Louise Brooking Whitaker, 89, of Orange, Virginia, died on Monday, August 17, 2026, from complications of a perforated bowel. She spent her final days at home, surrounded and visited by friends and family, and passed peacefully and comfortably with her family by her side.

Louise was born in Orange County on June 17, 1937, and was the daughter of the late William Wood Brooking and Nora Pannill Brooking. She was preceded in death by a brother, Eugene Brooking and his wife, Charlotte; and two sisters, Edna B. Altman and her husband, Ted, and Willie Wood B. Biscoe and her husband, George.

Louise is survived by her husband of 63 years, Gene Allen Whitaker; a daughter, Betty Morton Whitaker of Alexandria; a son, Eric Campbell Whitaker of Los Angeles, California; a brother, Jim Brooking and his wife, Susan, of Orange; a sister, Jane Vanderburg of Richmond; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Louise was a graduate of Madison College, a devoted member of Orange Presbyterian Church, and a retired math teacher. She spent the majority of her teaching career in Loudoun County, Virginia, where she taught for two decades before retiring. Louise was also a devoted gardener who took great joy and pride in her beautiful flower garden.

During her final days, Louise shared a belief that guided the way she lived: “Our purpose in life is to take care of each other.” She exemplified those words throughout her life—in the care and encouragement she gave generations of students, in the love she shared with her children and family, and in her generous service to others. For nearly 25 years, she volunteered at the Love Outreach Food Pantry and faithfully supported her church, her community, and numerous charitable organizations.

A memorial service followed by a reception will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Orange Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Love Outreach Food Pantry, P.O. Box 788, Orange, VA 22960, or the Nora Brooking Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 131, Orange, VA 22960.

Preddy Funeral Home of Orange is assisting the family.