Love Letters from the Frontlines: A WWII Romance Unveiled

Thu Feb 12 2026 00:04:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An intimate collection of love letters between William Raymond Whittaker and Jane Dean during World War II is now available for public viewing at the Nashville Public Library. These letters illustrate their courtship amidst the challenges of war.

The Nashville Public Library has digitized and displayed over 200 love letters exchanged between William Raymond Whittaker and Jane Dean during World War II. The letters, which illuminate their relationship and the societal challenges of the era, were discovered in a Nashville home and tell a poignant story of love, longing, and the impact of war on personal lives.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A unique collection of love letters from William Raymond Whittaker to Jane Dean, chronicling their courtship during World War II, is now available for digital viewing at the Nashville Public Library. These letters provide a glimpse into their lives and emotions amidst the uncertainty of war.

Discovered in a home belonging to Jane and her siblings, the letters were donated to the Metro Nashville Archives in 2016. William, affectionately known as Ray, hailed from New Rochelle, New York, and relocated to Nashville to attend Meharry Medical College, where he met Jane.

After losing touch, Ray was drafted into the Army in 1942 and reached out to Jane, who was then working at Vanderbilt University. Her response reveals a blend of joy and concern over his enlistment, emphasizing the emotional toll of separation during wartime.

A Personal Connection

Archivist Kelley Sirko expresses the power of these letters, noting their intimate portrayal of two ordinary people navigating a complex historical period. Despite attempts, no living relatives of the couple have been located, leaving the letters as the primary source of their story.

The collection not only highlights their romance but also presents insights into racial and gender issues of the time. The letters reflect their struggles and aspirations, testament to resilience in love amid adversity.

Growing Affection

As their correspondence continues, Ray hints at the possibility of proposing marriage, prompting Jane to question his feelings and intentions. Their exchanges reveal doubts, fears, and eventual reassurances, illustrating the deepening of their bond.

After just a couple of months, the couple marries on November 7, 1942, yet still finds themselves apart due to Ray’s military service. Jane’s letters convey a mixture of elation and sadness, as she longs for a future together amidst the uncertainties of war.

In her words, “It’s wonderful to have such a sweet and lovely husband... but such a few happy hours.” The poignant narratives captured in these letters highlight their enduring love and hope for reunion.