The Muse Whitaker Memorial Committee was formed in 2022 in Carthage, resulting from a group of people who wanted to honor the lives of two hometown heroes. It became the committee’s mission to construct a first responder’s memorial to honor Max Muse and Landis “Lanny” Whitaker.
Max Muse, a Moore County native, passed in 2021 and spent his life serving Moore County as a dedicated public servant across many fields. He was a registered nurse at FirstHealth for 35 years and also served on Carthage Fire and Rescue. Max earned many certifications, including BLS, EMT, ACLS, PALS, BTLS, TNCC, RN, MICN, and SAR.
“Everyone who knew Max loved him,” said Connie Burns, committee secretary. “He had the kind of humor that could light up a room. Losing Max has left an emptiness, but we find comfort in the memories we shared. Max sacrificed his life to help others, so it’s now our duty to carry on Max’s legacy.”
Captain James Landis “Lanny” Whitaker was born in Moore County and began his firefighting career at 16 with Cameron Fire and Rescue. In 2004, he joined Carthage Fire and Rescue as a volunteer, became a part-time firefighter, and earned a promotion to captain. Whitaker also worked full-time with Windstream Communications. He passed away in 2020 in a line-of-duty vehicle accident.
A few individuals joined forces in 2022 to create the memorial committee for Muse and Whitaker. The committee currently consists of members with experience in public safety around Moore County. The charity is a fully registered 501(c) (3) non-profit, and the committee is in the early stages of fundraising efforts and searching for property near Carthage for their project.
“Muse and Captain Whitaker spent decades touching the lives of others who were in need of help,” said Jason Love, committee vice president. “The way to never forget is to keep telling their stories. The Muse Whitaker Memorial Committee is just that, a committee formed to honor our community, just as they did. We are planning and funding a community non-profit project for public use in their honor. It will also serve as a tribute to all current public servants who carry on the unselfish service to our communities.”
You can make a tax-deductible donation on the committee’s website at www.musewhitakermemorial.com or by mail to The Muse Whitaker Memorial Committee, Inc. at PO Box 807, Carthage, NC 28327.
You can also find the committee on social media outlets to stay updated on upcoming fundraisers and current status.
The committee has a 50/50 raffle fundraiser in progress until Nov. 23. All donations are fully tax-deductible, and donations may also be sent through the website. If you are interested in purchasing tickets or have any questions, email [email protected] or call 910-315-0428.
~Article by Sandhills Sentinel staff. Photo contributed.
