Jeffery M. Whiting
Born on July 12, 1963 in White Plains, New YorkDeparted on July 13, 2021 in Melbourne, Florida
It is with joy of a wonderful life well-lived, and sadness at its earthly ending, that we announce the passing of Jeffery M. Whiting, known in the medieval world as Sir Geoffrey Maynard of York. Jeff passed from natural causes on July 13, 2021, at the age of 58. He was a loving husband, father, brother, and son. He deeply loved his friends and held a special place in his heart for his dog, Jack.
Jeff was born on July 12, 1963, to Peter and Catherine Whiting. He lived in many places growing up, but always called CederS Camp in Lebanon, Missouri his home. Jeff was passionate about his Christian Science beliefs. He attended services at the First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Melbourne, Florida.
Jeff lived most of his life in Melbourne, FL, after attending Florida Institute of Technology, where he graduated in 1989 with a Mechanical Engineering degree. Jeff met his wife, Jennifer, at FIT in 1984. They became best friends and married in 1996; Jeff and Jennifer just celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. In 2002, they were blessed with an amazing, loving, and beautiful daughter, Whitney Willow.
Jeff was part of the wonderfully supportive family at EnSoul Music Designs (formerly Mid-East Manufacturing), making that his career home for almost 30 years. At EnSoul, which makes cultural musical instruments, he focused on making the production and warehouse processes run smoothly through all his extraordinary talents in metalwork, troubleshooting, and logistics. He was trusted and loved by his co-workers.
Sir Geoffrey loved his medieval life and friends. Jeff joined the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) in the early ’80s. He helped many people get started and become passionate about medieval arts and sciences, including his medieval sword fighting and armor production specialties. Jeff was well known for his tent-making, creating everything from small one-person medieval tents to 50-foot tents, built for multitudes to enjoy. For almost 40 years, Jeff served others in the multiple medieval societies he joined, teaching them all he knew. In the SCA, Jeff earned the peerages of Knighthood for his combat skills and Laurel for his work in the arts and sciences. He was incredibly honored by receiving his Augmentation of Arms in 2016, which is a very high achievement given to those who give of themselves to the medieval dream for many years.
Jeff will lovingly be remembered by the following survivors: His wife, Jennifer Lynne; his daughter, Whitney Willow; his mother and stepfather, Catherine and Robin Vincent; his father and stepmother, Peter and Sue Whiting; his sister, Jennifer S. Whiting; his brother, Gregory W. Whiting; his stepbrother Ross Whiting; his loving dog, Jack; his two beloved turtles, Turtle 1 and Turtle 2; and his somewhat-aloof-but-loving cat, Hagrid.
Rest in Peace, our dear Jeffery. As you always reminded us, God is Love, and now you fully know that eternal love. You will forever be in our hearts, as your beautiful soul infinitely continues to shine on.
There will be a Celebration of Life and sharing of stories and love on Saturday July 24th from 2pm – 5pm at Brownlie – Maxwell Funeral Home.
