Robert Wood Whitaker

Robert Whitaker of 1872 West Pine Street in Mount Airy, fell asleep in death Thursday February 4, 2022.  He passed away peacefully at the Hospice Home in Dobson after a breakfast of ice cream.  Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Marie Dean Whitaker and their two boys, Thomas and David, who died as children, as well as 10 of his 11 siblings.  He is survived by one sister, Gladys Creed, his two daughters, Brenda and her husband Larry Jones, and Beulah Blalock; two granddaughters, Crystal and her husband Jimmy Selba, and Hannah Ashburn; one great-granddaughter, Lennon Selba; as well as many nieces and nephews.  Robert was born to parents Robert Lee and Mollie Wood Whitaker on April 20, 1924.  His early life revolved around agriculture and inspired a love of growing things in the dirt.  He was an exceptionally hard worker and loved to provide for his family, whether in the tobacco fields of Canada or the Hudson Plant in Detroit, MI, or ultimately owning and operating his own business.  He thoroughly enjoyed gardening and he was very proud of his half acre garden that he grew for 44 years!  He was never happier though than when he was able to care for his family either handing his children and grandchildren money to have a “little something in their pocket” or making sure everyone was fed and well.  His generosity was a hallmark of his personality.  Even though he loved cracking jokes and being the center of attention at times he never wanted flowers to be sent to his funeral.  So in lieu of flowers, please show generosity to someone in need.