James Solano Whitman, 21, of Riverview, met his Lord and Savior, on February 20, 2021. James was a beloved son, brother, grandson, and friend.  With a wink, a smile or a nod, James would let you know he cared; he had a passion for helping others. He lived selflessly, befriending everyone he met and checked on his friends and family on a regular basis.  James loved life, his family, and embraced a good debate. He researched everything to understand more, from stocks to politics to religion and everything in between.  He was unafraid to share his faith to the point of challenging his college roommates to promise if something ever happened to him, they would continue their pursuit of God and their relationship with Jesus.  James cared for everyone and wanted to see others lifted up. James accomplished what he was meant to do, and our family is proud of him. James was a senior at Clarion University in PA and will be awarded a posthumous bachelor's degree in Business.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Betty Whitman. James is survived by his loving family, parents, Bob and Michelle Whitman; brother, Tyler Whitman; grandparents, Edward and Sharon Solano; aunts and uncles, Michael (Vanessa) Whitman, Monique (Tom) Witz, David (Beth) Solano, Scott (Christy) Solano, Christopher (Stephanie) Solano, and Laura Solano; and many wonderful cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Ivymount Foundation.  James had a special place in his heart for his cousin, Sean, and this institution is monumental in helping him.  Ivymount Foundation
c/o Development, 11614 Seven Locks Road, Rockville, MD 20854. https://ivymount.ejoinme.org/MyPages/DonationPage/tabid/89235/Default.aspx

There will be a funeral service on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at 12:30 pm at Bay Life Church, 1017 Kingsway Rd, Brandon, FL 33510. The family will greet guests one hour prior.