Shaketha Latrice Whyte was born on March 1, 1977, at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Melendell Hunter and the late James Matlock.

She attended Sparkman High School and proudly graduated with the Class of 1995. At an early age, Shaketha accepted Christ and became a member of First Baptist Church in Sparkman under the leadership of Reverend Porchia.

Shaketha dedicated 28 years of faithful service to Ray White Lumber Company, where she worked until her health decline.

On January 29, 1997, Shaketha married the love of her life, James Whyte. Together they built a loving family and shared many cherished memories.

Shaketha had a true passion for life. She loved traveling, especially taking trips with her mother. She treasured spending time with her children and grandchildren, who kept her active and brought her immense joy. She enjoyed fishing with her husband, talking with her friends and cousins, and preparing delicious meals for those she loved. If you knew Shaketha, you knew she also enjoyed her naps and could always appreciate a good night’s sleep. She will forever be remembered for her beautiful smile, radiant eyes, kind spirit, and the love she shared with everyone around her.

On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Shaketha peacefully departed this earthly life.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories: her devoted husband, James Whyte; her loving mother, Melendell Hunter; three daughters, Maria Whyte, Monica Whyte, and Katlina Whyte; one sister, Kristi Locke; two granddaughters, A’Riyah Whyte and Gracelyn Leaks, three grandsons, Ayden Whyte, Zayden Whyte, James Cross, two nieces, Ja’Kinslee Rucks and Kaylee Locke; three sister-in-law, Vanessa (Pastor Darryl) Maxwell, Renee and LeKeisha Ollison, along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, and many dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Shaketha was preceded in death by her father, James Matlock; her grandparents; her mother-in-law; and several beloved aunts, uncles, and friends.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in knowing that Shaketha’s love, warmth, and beautiful spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love, strength, and devotion to family will never be forgotten.

Pallbearers will be Jeremiah Wright, Jeremy Todd, Sr., George Wright, Jr., Christopher Wright, Jason Davis, Jr., and Gary Berry. Honorable to mention are Ayden Whyte, Zayden Whyte, James Cross, DeAndre Gray, A'Mellion Bullock, De'Nike Hopkins and Desmond Leaks.

Submitted by the Family