Alcorn remembers Legendary Coach, Davey “The Wiz” Whitney Sr.
Alcorn State University sends its deepest sympathy to the family of former Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Davey “The Wiz” Whitney Sr., who died May 10 at age 85.
During his tenure at Alcorn (1969-1989 and 1996-2003), he captured 12 Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championships with a record of 566-356.
“The Alcorn family will always remember Coach Whitney as an innovative coach who cared deeply for his players,” said President Alfred Rankins Jr. “He was a mentor and father figure to his players. He really expressed the importance of winning at life and being of good character, not just games won or lost.”
The Alcorn family is grateful to his wife of 62 years, Bernice and his family for sharing him with us. In addition to his wife, he leaves five children, Gail, Libby, Lisa, Doreen and Davey Jr. and four grandchildren, Ashantee, Aubrei, Corey and Duonne to cherish his memories.
“His legacy will always be a part of Alcorn State University and will continue to inspire generations of Alcornites,” said President Rankins.
Memorial services for Coach Whitney will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, May 16, 2015 at the Morning Star Baptist Church, 2050 Thornton Street in Gulfport, Mississippi. Arrangements for Coach Whitney have been entrusted to Lockett Williams Mortuary, Inc., 2018 31st Avenue, Gulfport, Mississippi. Telephone number: (228) 863-7712. Website address:www.lockettwilliams.com.
A memorial service will also be held at Alcorn State University Saturday, June 6. For more information, contact Vice President for Institutional Advancement Marcus Ward at 601.877.6296 or Director of Athletics Derek Horne at 601.877.6500.