Skip McWhorter, Obit

James Graham “Skip” McWhorter, known affectionately as “Pops” or “Pop Pop” by his children and grandchildren, departed from this world on Friday, September 22nd. He was the cherished son of Wanda and Robert McWhorter and the eldest son among eight siblings. Skip was a beacon of love, work, charisma, and adventure. His journey through life was marked by unwavering dedication and a love for both family and community. Skip was Born on January 23, 1960, in Beaumont, Texas, where he spent his early childhood years before moving to Atlanta, Texas. As a teenager, it was Skip’s thoughtful nature and adventurous spirit that made him a beloved figure in his community. In high school he excelled in multiple sports and played college baseball at the University of North Texas his Freshman year. Skip moved to Utah in 1981 to attend BYU, where he expanded an ever growing network of friends and colleagues. He has carried with him a palpable sense of joy and enthusiasm that enriched the lives of all he encountered. Skip was an accomplished individual personally and professionally, and his work ethic was unmatched. His professional accolades were many but only a small part of his vibrant life. Skip was passionate about athletics and the outdoors, whether it was baseball, coaching, biking, skiing, boating, horses, hunting or simply spending quality time with his family. He has coached thousands of young people across several sports, was a dedicated leader of the Orem Youth Baseball Program, and coached his children in every sport imaginable. A defining part of Skip’s impact on others was his church service, including his service as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Western States Mission. His mission and countless other callings he’s held have allowed him to share his faith, compassion, and kindness with countless individuals, leaving a lasting impact on those he encountered. Skip’s influence was especially felt by the youth and young adults. His mentorship and love will be remembered by so many who benefited from his guidance and support. Skip adored his sweetheart, Carol. His family was at the center of his world, and he was a devoted father and grandfather to six wonderful children and five beautiful grandchildren. His love and guidance were evident in the values he instilled in his children, and the memories they created together will forever hold a special place in their hearts. “The best dad in the world”, as his children fondly remember him. If something was important to one of his kids, he made it the center of his world. His children’s friends and teammates all consider Skip a “second dad” by the way he also invested in them. Skip’s presence illuminated the lives of all who knew him. His warmth, humor, and unwavering faith were a source of inspiration to many. He leaves a legacy of love, strength, and resilience that will continue to guide and inspire future generations. Skip had an uncanny yet genuine ability to make everyone he met feel like the most important person in the world. Skip is lived on through his loving wife, Carol; his children, Chelsie (Brie), Cole (Brittani), Kellen (Jordyn), Mitchell (Sydney), Maxx, and Dylan; his grandchildren, Calvin, Mason, Emilia, Harvey, and Vivian; his brothers and sisters; and his mother, Wanda. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert. Viewings will be held at Nelson Family Mortuary, 4780 North University Avenue, Provo, Utah, 84604, on Thursday, September 28, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm MDT and at Windsor Stake Center, 60 East 1600 North, Orem, Utah, 84057, on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 10:00 am MDT. The funeral service will take place at Windsor Stake Center on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 11:00 am MDT, followed by a graveside service at Eastlawn Memorial, 4800 North 650 East Street, Provo, Utah, 84604, at 12:30 pm MDT. Those who knew and loved Skip are encouraged to visit his memorial page to share memories, stories, and photos that celebrate his remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a program near and dear to Skip’s heart, Orem Youth Baseball, where Skip served for the past decade. Venmo: @OremYouthBaseball-Skip (Code: 2514)