Jan 19, 1965 — Jul 23, 2026
Sean Allen Whitby, cherished Father, Son, Brother, and Friend, passed away unexpectedly on July 23, 2026, in Ponca City, Oklahoma. He was born on January 19, 1965, in Galesburg, Illinois, to Percy L. Whitby and Joan L. McClain, who raised him with love and instilled in him the values of kindness, compassion, and hard work.
Sean was a gentle soul with a warm smile and a heart that knew no bounds. His life was marked by unwavering kindness, generosity, and a willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He possessed a strong work ethic and took pride in everything he did. His infectious sense of humor could light up any room, and his genuine spirit made everyone he met feel welcomed and valued. Sean truly never met a stranger.
Above all else, Sean loved his family. He found his greatest joy in being a father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His love, wisdom, and gentle encouragement will continue to guide those who were blessed to know him.
Sean leaves to cherish his memory his loving parents, Percy L. Whitby and Joan L. McClain (Ricky McClain) of Lansing, Michigan; his children, RoShaun Bennefield of Boston, Massachusetts, DaShara Crosby (DonTrell), Pearl Ann Hernandez Whitby, Diego Hernandez Whitby, and Marrah Whitby, all of Lansing, Michigan; and five grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Shela Whitby Jones (Floyd) of Fargo, Arkansas; Hope Whitby Ainsworth (Quincy) of Collins, Mississippi; Neil Whitby (Everlena) of Rockford, Illinois; Ivory Whitby-Jackson (Brian) of Houston, Texas; Daniel Whitby of Miami, Florida; Edward Whitby of Dallas, Texas; and Salina Whitby of Lansing, Michigan, along with a host of beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were forever touched by his kindness and friendship.
Sean was preceded in death by his grandparents, Manson Whitby, Ivory L. Whitby, Howard Allen, and Hope Allen; his aunts, JoAnn Aimery, Nancy Whitby Ferguson, and Darlene Whitby; his uncle, Tommy Whitby; his uncle, Alvin Whitby; and infant nephew, Baby Javon Whitby.
A devoted member of New Point Church in Ponca City, Oklahoma, Sean lived his faith through service, compassion, and love for others. His quiet strength and servant's heart left a lasting impact on his church family and community.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Brown-Cummings Funeral Home, 400 W. Maple Avenue, Enid, Oklahoma 73701. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Ponca City emergency responders and the caring staff of Brown-Cummings Funeral Home for their compassion and support during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Sean's final expenses through Brown-Cummings Funeral Home (580) 237-5432.
Though Sean's earthly journey ended far too soon, the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the memories he created will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
