Obituary of Edward Francis Whiteside

Edward Francis Whiteside, age 74, died August 30, 2023, in Virginia Beach, VA. Ed moved to Syracuse, NY, as a young child and always identified Syracuse as his hometown, though he enjoyed the warmer weather and access to year-round golf while living in Virginia Beach, VA.  

Edward graduated from Bishop Ludden High School in Syracuse. He then attended Marist College and graduated from SUNY Oswego. Ed loved helping others and did this throughout his life with a variety of human service organizations, including Unity Acres, Unity Kitchen, Transitional Living Services of Syracuse, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Chenango County, NY, and Meals on Wheels in Virginia Beach, VA.  

Edward was the oldest of nine, and his siblings are grateful for his willingness to put his plans on hold following the death of his father. Ed’s generous spirit was evident throughout his life as he continued to provide encouragement and support for two subsequent generations of family. 

Ed’s most cherished role in life was that of uncle. He adored each of his nieces and nephews, and made a considerable effort to be a part of each one’s life. Whether he was sharing life lessons, attending sporting events, or simply enjoying a family dinner, Ed treasured any time spent with family.

Ed had a great love of sports and closely followed his favorite teams: the New York Giants, New York Knicks and Chicago White Sox. Ed was also a lifelong, avid golfer; having learned from his father, he took great pleasure in sharing his love of golf with others. 

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Eileen; his sister Regina; and his sister-in-law Cassie (Vincent).

Edward is survived by seven siblings: Mary (John) Niemi and Thomas Whiteside of Syracuse, NY; Eileen (Charles) Tommasulo of Flushing, MI; Patricia (Michael) Pepe of Norwich, NY; Nicholas (Susan) Whiteside of Richmond, VA; Vincent Whiteside of Norman, OK; and Joseph (Donna) Whiteside of Virginia Beach, VA; as well as 17 nieces and nephews and 18 great-nieces and nephews and many cousins. 

Ed loved life and was laughing and enjoying stories with family at his side right to the end. In lieu of flowers, Ed would love it if you reached out to check on family, friends, or really anybody who looks like they could use a good chat or a laugh. The family wishes to send a special thanks to Ed’s brother Joseph and the staff at Atlantic Shores Retirement Community in Virginia Beach for their care and compassion over the past nine years. We will forever be grateful to them.

Calling hours will be 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, October 6 at the Tindall Funeral Home, 1921 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. October 7, 2023, at All Saints Catholic Church, 1342 Lancaster Ave. Syracuse. Burial will follow at Assumption Cemetery, Syracuse.

Memorial donations may be made to Unity Acres, PO Box 153, Orwell, NY 13426.