Robert Eugene Whitehead

Creal Springs Robert Eugene Bob Whitehead, 80, of Creal Springs, died on January 26, 2010 at Heartland Regional Medical Center. Bob was born May 9, 1929 in Spillertown the son of Dolph and Sadie (Stroud) Whitehead. He married Maxine Elliott on May 8, 1953. They have resided in Creal Springs, had four children and shared 56 years of marriage. He enjoyed praising and worshipping God at Birdwell Church in New Burnside, where he was a member for over 55 years. Bob enlisted in the Army in January, 1949. While in the Ranger Company, as a judo instructor he gave a demonstration for then General Dwight D. Eisenhower. He proudly served our country during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany. He received an honorable discharge in August, 1952. Upon his return, Bob was employed by Allen Industries for the next 30 years. He enjoyed traveling and spending time together with his family, especially the traditional Sunday gathering at his house for lunch. He kept a meticulous daily journal accounting the weather, stories and tales of his familys daily life for 24 years. His journals have become a treasured family heirloom. Bob also served as a volunteer for the Williamson County Programs on Aging Meals on Wheels Programs for 15 years. He continued the gift of giving by being an organ donor. During his life Bob battled severe asthma, a major heart attack at age 53, as well as colon cancer, all with a kind smile and a quiet strength. He instilled values such as grace, strength of character, perseverance, and a strong faith in God to those closest to him. He is dearly loved and cherished by family and friends who will treasure his memories for a lifetime. Bob will be missed greatly and sweetly remembered by all who knew him. Survivors include his wife, Maxine of Creal Springs, his sons Bill Whitehead and wife Gail of New Burnside, Steve Whitehead and wife Cheryl of Creal Springs, daughters Anita Biver and husband John of Pittsburg and Kristin and her finance Randy Romines of Vienna. Grandchildren Jenny and Anthony Volkert, Daniel and Stephanie Whitehead, Bobby and Melissa Whitehead, Robin and Jimmy Lenon, Toni Whitehead, Janelle and Rick Baltzell, Kim and Dave Harris, Becky and Josh Orrill and Addie Trovillion. Great-grandchildren Haley and Shelley Volkert, Hallie Newcomb, Danika Whitehead, McKenzie and Bryer Lenon, Morgan Poole, Katie and Kellie Baltzell, Bo, Lily and Ethan Harris, and Lana Grace Orrill as well as one more Whitehead baby on the way. He is also survived by brothers Jim and Virginia Whitehead, Bill and Lucille Whitehead and sister Jeanette and Charlie Newell as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister and brother-in-law Lenora and Hob Tanner, brother John Puck Whitehead, sister in law Ruby Whitehead, sister and brother-in-law Dean and Floyd McGuire, great grandson Will Parker Biver Harris, mother and father-in-law Lillie and Will Elliott, sister-in-law Elaine Elliott, brother-in-law Johnnie Wilkins and several nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be Friday, January 29, 2010 at 10 A.M. at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home with Rev. Gordon Smith officiating. Military rites will be presented by Marions VFW Post #1301, American Legion Post #147 and National Guard Flag Detail Unit. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 5 8 P.M. at the funeral home.