W. B. (Mooney) Chitwood

W. B. Chitwood, 97, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Known as Mooney by his friends, he was long associated with our local textile industry. He was a partner and founder of Commercial Mills, Inc. years ago, and later was the owner/operator of Economy Rug Company. Always interested in government functions, he served as a Councilman for the City of Dalton in the 1960s and was always participating in local politics as his hobby, especially behind the scenes. He served as member of the Board of the Solid Waste Authority for many years as an at-large appointee of both Dalton and Whitfield County governments. He was born in Gordon County as the son of Peter Washington Chitwood and Celia Sloan Chitwood, who preceded him in death by many years. Mooney is also preceded in death by his ten brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his spouse, Mary Jane, and this past September 3, they celebrated 71 years of marriage. Additionally, he is survived by his children, William B., Jr. (Beverly), Kim Bramlett (Randy), and Scott, the longest serving Sheriff in Whitfield County history. He is also survived by grandchildren, Colter Chitwood (Anna), Connor Chitwood (Molly), Lance Bramlett (Addie), and Lindsey Sims (Andy), and six great-grandchildren, Bridger and Rollins Chitwood, Deklan and McKenna Bramlett, Caroline and Olivia Sims, and another great-granddaughter is expected in May. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

Mooney was a Naval veteran, serving at the end of World War II. He was well-known for his boisterous laugh that was very distinctive, especially in a crowded room. When he was more active, he served the Dalton Lions Club in many capacities, and was a member of the VFW. He enjoyed trout fishing, and for more than 40 years enjoyed the annual opening day in Cherokee, North Carolina, and the special social time with good friends on those trips. He also enjoyed fishing in the family's private lake in Gilmer County.

A private graveside/committal service will be held. Pastor Mark Amspaugh will officiate. In lieu of flowers, a contribution in his memory can be made to the Dalton Education Foundation, 300 West Waugh Street, Dalton, GA 30720, or the charitable causes of the Dalton Lions Club, P. O. Box 934, Dalton, GA 30722, or the Georgia Sheriff's Association, 1000 Sheriffs Way, Madison, GA 30650.