A long-awaited return to Excelsior Springs this September will bring one former resident home as a published author, reconnecting him with familiar streets, lifelong friends and memories left untouched for nearly eight years.

A 1989 graduate of Excelsior Springs High School, Charles Whitham now teaches English and writes in Japan. He will soon return to the community for his first visit since 2018.

The trip will carry special meaning beyond returning as a published author.

Whitham last visited Excelsior Springs in 2018, a trip that became the final time he saw his mother before she died in 2020. Living in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic, he was unable to travel home for her funeral.

“It’s going to be emotional,” said Whitham. “This trip will be my first opportunity to visit her grave.” Another highlight of the trip will be Whitham’s return to the high school on Sept. 24, where he will speak with students and donate signed copies of his books to the library. The visit was arranged by Pri…