James Whittaker (1809-1880) was a convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and was later called to build a new settlement at Coal Creek (later known as Cedar City), Utah.

James Whittaker was born in the county of Lancashire, England on March 8, 1809 to Samuel and Sarah Whittaker. Whittaker married Rachel Taylor, daughter of James and Alice Turner on August 2, 1829. While living in Lancashire, Whittaker and his family converted to the Latter-day Saint faith. Like many Latter-day Saint members during the nineteenth century, Whittaker subsequently decided to transplant his family to Utah. Departing from Liverpool, the Whittaker family eventually reached the United States, arriving in New Orleans in the year 1852. Following their arrival, they made their journey to Salt Lake City, Utah. Almost immediately after reaching Salt Lake, Whittaker moved his family to Parowan. Shortly thereafter, Whittaker was called to build a new settlement at Coal Creek (later known as Cedar City). From all accounts, Whittaker loved southern Utah and died in Cedar City on March 3, 1880.