James Richard Whitbey was born in Dardanelle, Arkansas on November 26, 1935 to parents, Ray and Wilma (Tillman) Whitbey. He married Josephine "Cookie" Whitbey on December 7, 1973 in Bakersfield, CA. JR loved watching the Dallas Cowboys and Western movies, or anything on RFD TV. He was a kindhearted man, and ever loving; he was a tough man, but also had forgiving spirit. James always taught his family to love The Lord first, and all else will follow. JR is survived by his wife of 43 years, Cookie; and his children, Terie and husband Thomas Woodard, Sandy Whitbey, Bobby Byrd and wife Alicia, Shauntine and husband Jimmy Matthews; his siblings, David Whitbey, Robert Whitbey and Joyce Fain; along with 45 grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; and his children, Debbie Overbeck, Carla Ireland and Margaret Harris; and siblings, Charlie Whitbey, Russell Whitbey and Ronnie Whitbey. A Viewing was held from 4-8pm on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at Peters Funeral Home in Shafter. Graveside services were conducted at Shafter Memorial Park at 2pm on Wednesday, June 15, 2016.