Orlando Whitehair

Orlando Whitehair was born on September 19, 1973 in Phoenix, Arizona and passed away on April 24, 2010 in Mesa, Arizona with family at his side. He was 36 years old. Orlando's childhood was spent in St. Johns, Arizona where he attended elementary school, grade school and high school; graduating from St. Johns High School. He met and married his high school sweetheart, Kathlena (Altaha) Whitehair, whom he leaves behind. He is also survived by 2 beautiful daughters: Diamond Brook Whitehair, Twilla Camille Whitehair; mother, Mary Whitehair; brother, Gary Whitehair; and by his traditional god-daughter, Matraisa Ruelaine Johnson. Orlando is also survived by his father, George Whitehair; 1 sister, Patty James; 1 traditional god-sister, Shannon "Shine" (Pusher) Walker, numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. His life was spent taking care of his wife and daughters and by working in the construction industry as a drywalling specialist. However, Orlando loved the rodeo life. He was a champion bull rider and bronco rider. He taught his bull and bronco riding skills to his nephews and to Twilla. One of Orlando's other talents was that of speaking his mind. As a result of that talent he became an favorite announcer at numerous rodeos throughout cowboy country. The wake for Orlando will begin 10:00 A.M. Thursday, April 29, 2010 at the Whitehair family residence in McNary, Arizona. The funeral service will begin 10:00 A.M. Friday April 30, 2010 at the McNary Baptist Church in McNary. The concluding service and interment will follow at the McNary Cemetery.