Death of Veneta Whitmer, former missionary in Congo and Jamaica

by Global Ministries | published on Oct 10, 2014

The Division of Overseas Ministries/Global Ministries has learned of the passing of Veneta (Viers) Whitmer, 92, on Friday, February 27, 2009. Veneta, along with her husband, Joseph, were missionaries to the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 1943 to 1958, as well as to Jamaica from 1959 to 1961.

Veneta was born in Blackwell, Oklahoma, November 1, 1916, and received her B.A. and M.A. degrees from Phillips University, and a B.D. degree from Vanderbilt School of Religion. Their departure to Congo in 1943 was most unusual, given the war conditions. Veneta, Joseph, and their three small children, sailed from New York in September 1943, but it was April 1944 before they finally arrived in Lotumbe in the Congo. Their trip included unplanned stops at Puerto Rico and Buenos Aires, finally arriving in Capetown, South Africa, in March. Veneta and Joseph worked primarily in the field of evangelism, and Veneta was the author of a paper for women and girls giving help for programs and church leadership. This paper was used throughout their time in the Congo.

Veneta and Joseph also worked in the field of evangelism in Jamaica from October 1959 until the end of June 1961.

The Division of Overseas of Overseas/ Global Ministries thanks God for the life, ministry, and testimony of Veneta Whitmer, especially for her outstanding contribution to the education of women.

Joseph Whitmer preceded Veneta in death on October 30, 1969. Survivors include three children, Joseph Lemert, Russell Holmer, and Julia Ann. Messages of condolence may be sent to Russell Whitmer: P. O. Box 763, Louisburg, KS, 66053.

A memorial service is planned for Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at the First Christian Church, Wagoner, Oklahoma.