John Edward Whitaker

John Edward Whitaker passed away July 14, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 15, 1933 in Tyler, Texas the son of the late Monroe Sr. and Willie (Craze) Whitaker.

John was a loving husband to Dardis (Newsome) Whitaker for the past 72 years. They were the parents of four children: Suzanne Phillips (George) of Fredericktown, Missouri, the late Edith Whitaker, the late Keith Whitaker (Tammy) of Farmington, New Mexico, and Alan Whitaker (Shelly) of Steelville, Missouri. John is survived by nine grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and one great great grandson, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, and his canine companion, Bonnie.

John had six siblings, all who preceded him in death: Monroe, Montia, Patsy, Bo, Rose and Mickey.

John proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corp during the Korean conflict. He later worked as a compressor mechanic for EPNG and was a Field Service Representative for Dresser Rand Corporation, a specialized role that took him around the world. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, especially elk, and taking his dogs for rides in the SXS. John was a hard worker and a skilled mechanic and carpenter who could fix anything. Kind, considerate, and gentle, he deeply cared for his family, especially his children and grandchildren.

There are no formal services planned at this time. Online condolences may be left for his family on the website.