Etowah – Jimmy W. Whitmire, Sr., 75, passed away on Thursday, May 24, 2012 at the Elizabeth House, Flat Rock, NC. A native of Transylvania County, he was the son of the late Gilbert C. "Cad" Whitmire and Bessie Fisher Whitmire. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Gladys Whitmire and his brother, Charles Whitmire. Mr. Whitmire retired from Ecusta Corp. after 43 years of service. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and he enjoyed fishing and watching football. Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Clair Whitmire; son, Jimmy Whitmire and wife Renee of Fairview; granddaughter, Ashley Whitmire of Fairview; sister, Cindy Compton and husband Joe of Brevard; brother, Steve Whitmire of Hendersonville; several nieces and nephews. The graveside service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, May 26, 2012 at Blue Ridge Gardens of Memory (formerly Pisgah Gardens). Memorials may be made to the Promise Center of Etowah Baptist Church.