Tucked away in the hills of rural West Virginia, the Whittakers are more than just a family — they are a testament to unconditional love, strength, and simplicity. Life in Odd isn’t defined by wealth or technology, but by deep family ties and the unshakable bond of community. Through every challenge, the Whittakers have stood by one another with loyalty and care that speaks volumes. Their story is not just about where they live, but how they live — with heart, humility, and the kind of warmth that reminds us all what truly matters.
Whittaker
Lorene Whittaker is the heart of the Whittaker family, known for her gentle spirit and unwavering care for her loved ones in their tight-knit Odd, West Virginia home.
Whittaker
Larry Whittaker is a quiet yet steady presence in the Whittaker family, known for his resilience, warm smile, and deep-rooted connection to his Appalachian home.
Some Things The Whittaker’s Want People To Know About Them
The Whittaker's are a real, loving family with emotions, memories, and bonds like any other—not a spectacle for entertainment.
Despite growing up in poverty and isolation, the family remains resilient, kind-hearted, and fiercely loyal to one another.
Lorraine - 78 
Betty - 73 (Sister of Lorraine)
Larry - 68 (Brother of Lorraine)
Ray - 72 (Brother of Lorraine)
Timmy - 46 (Son of Lorraine)
To ensure the Whittaker family is supported in the best and most transparent way, all donations will be placed into a dedicated trust. This allows us to manage funds responsibly and ensure they go directly toward the family’s long-term care, stability, and needs.
Can I send items to the Whittaker's right now?
At this time, we kindly ask that you do not send physical items to the family. Their current living conditions make it difficult to safely store or use donations. Instead, all contributions will be secured through the trust until the family’s new home is complete.
What happens to my donation?
Every donation received will be carefully managed through the trust and used only for the Whittaker family’s well-being—such as housing, care, and other essentials. Full transparency is a priority, and the funds will be handled with accountability and oversight.
Why wait until the house is finished?
By waiting until the new home is completed, we can ensure that any support provided will be long-lasting and truly beneficial to the family. This way, your generosity won’t be lost or destroyed by the challenges of their current living situation.
How can I stay updated?
We will provide regular updates as the trust is finalized and the home progresses. Once donations can be accepted securely, we will share clear instructions on how to contribute.
What’s the best way I can help right now?
The most meaningful way to help at this stage is to stay engaged, share the updates with others, and keep the Whittaker's in your thoughts and prayers. Your patience ensures that when the time is right, your kindness will make the greatest impact possible.
Are the Whittaker's currently receiving medical care?
The Whittaker's have had limited access to medical services in the past. Eric has been working closely with them to ensure they receive the care they need. Recently, he was able to take Ray to a knee specialist and is in the process of scheduling a follow-up visit.
Q: What steps are being taken to secure ongoing medical support?
Eric is working diligently to obtain the necessary identification and documentation for the family members. This is a crucial step in securing proper medical, dental, and other essential healthcare services for them.
Q: Will they be able to access specialists and regular checkups?
Yes. Once identification and enrollment processes are complete, the goal is to establish ongoing medical, dental, and vision care, as well as access to specialists when needed.
Q: How can the community help?
At this time, the best way to help is to support the structured efforts being put in place. This ensures that all assistance is transparent, accountable, and directed toward the Whittakers’ long-term well-being.
Q: Why is this process taking time?
Many members of the Whittaker family do not currently have the identification or documentation required to qualify for medical services. Establishing this paperwork is essential and takes careful coordination with the appropriate agencies.
Why doesn’t Ray Whittaker wear a belt?
Ray has received several belts over time from kind supporters. However, he simply does not like wearing them and chooses not to use them. While he has what he needs, Ray’s personal comfort and preferences are always respected.
Why isn’t the team buying the Whittakers a mobile home?
While a mobile home may seem like a quick solution, the team carefully considered the Whittakers’ lifestyle and long-term needs. Based on past experience, a mobile home would not be sustainable for them and would likely be damaged or deteriorate quickly.
Instead, the team is exploring the possibility of working with the Amish community to build a modest, durable house—if the Amish agree and sufficient funds are raised. A traditionally built home would provide a more stable, long-lasting environment better suited to the Whittakers’ way of life.
In addition, a trust is being established to ensure transparency.
How Patrick Roark and Eric Carroll Became Involved with the Whittakers
Patrick Roark was one of the first people to step in and offer support to the Whittaker family when he recognized their unique needs. Through his outreach and commitment, Patrick began assisting them with day-to-day needs and advocating for their well-being.
Understanding that the Whittakers needed broader support and long-term solutions, Patrick connected with Eric Carroll, who has experience in family advocacy and community organization. Eric has since taken an active role in helping the Whittaker's, including coordinating medical care, working on identification documents, and developing structured plans to ensure the family’s health and stability moving forward.
This video goes into more detail as to their relationship and how they got involved.
From what is publicly known, Timmy Whittaker is blind in one eye. The exact cause of his eye condition has never been clearly documented or confirmed. Some reports and interviews suggest it may be due to a congenital issue or an injury earlier in life, but there has never been an official medical explanation provided.
Dental care is one of the priorities being addressed for the Whittakers. Many family members are in need of dentures or other dental treatments. While the family has expressed that they do not want dentures, Eric is working to gently encourage them to consider the option, as dentures can significantly improve overall health, comfort, and quality of life.
To move this forward, Eric and the team are first securing the necessary identification and documentation so the Whittakers can qualify for dental services. Once that step is complete, the plan is to connect them with professionals who can provide the care they need.
Help Build a Safe Home for the Whittakers – Learn how you can support efforts to provide the Whittaker family with a secure, comfortable house designed for their unique needs.
Support In-Home Care Services – Discover how your contribution can help fund professional, compassionate in-home care to improve the Whittakers’ quality of life.
The Whittaker family currently needs ongoing support with daily living essentials, home maintenance, and medical care coordination. Volunteers play a vital role in meeting these needs by assisting with household repairs and cleaning, helping transport family members to appointments or for errands, and providing companionship and structured support during visits. These efforts ensure the Whittakers can live with dignity, safety, and connection to their community.
Volunteers are working to establish trusts and other safeguards to ensure all donations go directly to the Whittakers, with full transparency in every transaction.
Primary Caregiver
Patrick Roark is a close friend and trusted supporter of the Whittaker family, often helping them with day-to-day needs and serving as a bridge between their quiet life in Odd, West Virginia and the outside world. His steady presence and genuine care have made him an invaluable part of their extended family.
Caregiver
Eric Carroll has become a dedicated caregiver to the Whittaker family, offering consistent support, compassion, and advocacy. He helps ensure their daily needs are met, protects their privacy, and shares their story with dignity—building trust and friendship with one of America’s most unique families.
Webmaster
DeWayne Ward, as webmaster, helps share the Whittakers' story with respect and authenticity, bringing deeper understanding to their journey.
Blog Page
Tucked away in the Appalachian hills of Odd, West Virginia,…
It was GREAT speaking with you the other day, Timmy!!! YOU ROCK!!!
Brandy Ward Phone Call