Robert Whitaker

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Robert Adair Whitaker, age 91 of Neosho, MO passed away peacefully early Friday, June 12th, 2026, at Webwood Assisted Living Center leaving behind his loving wife and family and many others he had touched throughout his life.

Born on June 18, 1934, in Nara Visa, NM., Robert was the son of the Henry and Veda (Wallis) Whitaker. Robert was the second oldest of 4 children, raised on a ranch in Amistad, NM. He developed a deep love for wide open spaces and the raw beauty Eastern New Mexico possessed. He worked beside his parents and siblings farming, branding cattle, milking cows, breaking horses, selling eggs, shooting rabbits and predators such as coyotes. He enjoyed playing baseball and was offered a contract to pitch in the minor leagues during college. He was surrounded by many musicians in his family and with their support became an accomplished pianist. Since his high school did not have 12th grade, he graduated upon completing the 11th grade. After taking an examination that would qualify him to enter college, he began college at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, NM graduating as Magna Cum Lade with a degree in Business. 

During college he met Koleta Smith at the Baptist Student Union on campus. They were married on June 15, 1956. Following their wedding, Robert was drafted and served his country for 2 years while stationed in Honolulu, HI. They found time to explore the islands making many fond memories during their stay. 

Following his service, they established their home and began their family in Midland, TX where Robert worked for Shell Oil Company. Not wanting to raise his children in the city, Robert turned down a management level accounting position that would result in a transfer with Shell Oil to New York City. This decision resulted in moving his family to Loveland, CO and earning his master’s degree in accounting, teaching business courses at the High School, while raising Holstein calves and farming 80 acres. Robert’s love for farming continued in Wyoming and Nebraska, again giving his children the experience of raising animals and crops, and developing a strong work ethic. 

Returning to Texas to care for aging parents, Robert worked over 10 years as an Accountant for Santa Fe Energy before taking early retirement, once again declining a transfer to another big city. Following his retirement, he returned to farming in Eastern New Mexico for several years. Wherever he lived, Robert served throughout his life in Baptist churches, teaching Sunday School, Training Union, Bible Studies. He led others to know Christ by his godly example and continued to study the Bible and pray up to the time his passing. He leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, hard work, loyalty and love.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Veda Whitaker; sisters Ruth Peabody and Carol Summers; brother-in-law, Ted Peabody, sister-in-law, Margaret Prell. Father and mother-in-law Gordon and Fay Smith; sisters- in-laws Mildred Bostick and Joan Watson, and brother-in-law Darrell Smith.

He is survived by his beloved wife Koleta of 69 years, his children, Brenda Barrett (Tim) of Columbus, KS, Curtis Whitaker (Gwen) of Conroe, TX., his brother, Arthur Prell, Pearl River LA, a brother-in-law, MV Summers, Springdale, AR and a sister-in-law, Texalee Smith, Paola, KS., beloved grandchildren (5) and great-grandchildren (6), loving nieces and nephews who he enjoyed spending time with over the years.

A Memorial service is scheduled for 2:00 pm, Saturday, July 25, 2026 at the Mason-Woodard Chapel in Joplin, MO. The family will receive friends during a time of visitation prior to the service beginning at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to the Gideons International and the Radio Bible Class, in care of the mortuary.