This year’s Mound City Medical Forum scholarship banquet was a centennial birthday celebration for beloved local physician Dr. James M. Whittico Jr., who turns 100 on November 18.
“Though no one can ever fill the shoes of Dr. Whittico,” said Dr. Denise Hooks Anderson, the medical accuracy editor of The St. Louis American. “We at Mound City Medical Forum hope, by telling his story, it will propel the next generation forward.”
The longtime surgeon retired in May at age 99 after 65 years of active medical practice.
Dr. Whittico presented Mound City’s $2,500 James M. Whittico M.D. leadership scholarship award to Patrice Vallot of Saint Louis University. Two additional $1,500 scholarships were awarded to medical students Julian Clarke of Washington University and Alexis Webber of Saint Louis University.
His pastor, Rev. Robert C. Scott of Central Baptist Church, described Dr. Whittico as a great churchman who demonstrates his discipleship through his life and work.
“One as accomplished as Dr. Whittico really could, as some do, have an air of superficial superiority, but he has an aristocracy of the mind without losing the common touch of the people,” Scott said. “That sounds a lot like Jesus to me.”
The full-house event at the Airport Marriott Hotel included colleagues, nurses and community leaders.
Greetings, proclamations and supporting well-wishes were sent by the National Medical Association, Meharry College of Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine, various fraternal and community organizations, and elected politicians, including U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay, one of Dr. Whittico’s countless former patients.
“This gentle giant may have retired, but his life’s work will never stop,” Clay said. “We love you, we respect you and we deeply appreciate all you have done for us over the years.”
The most touching birthday tributes came from his children, Jarrhet and Joi Whittico.
“As your son, it’s been an honor and a privilege to share in at least half of this journey with you,” Jarrhet Whittico said.
“In your eyes there is blessed light, and in gratitude for you, for your many gifts, I say thank you for your great parenting, your warm camaraderie, your compassion and kindness, you excellent teaching, your strong example and, most of all, for your love,” Joi Whittico said.
When it was his turn to speak, Dr. Whittico said grace is the “nitty gritty of life” that’s kept him going and presented him with fortunate opportunities to benefit his fellow man.
“All of this has been made possible as a result of His amazing grace,” Dr. Whittico said. “And I don’t think He’s through with me yet. I think that there may be something left that I can do.”
