Gilbert Leroy Whitham

Gilbert Leroy Whitham, son of the late David Leroy Whitham and Mary Ann (Ward) Gan, was born on October 16, 1947, in Madison, Indiana. When Gilbert was 14 years old, he and his family made their home in the Buckhorn, Missouri area, where he attended Waynesville High School and began putting down roots in the community that would become such an important part of his life. In 1967, Gilbert was drafted into the United States Army and served his country in Vietnam before receiving his honorable discharge in 1968, carrying a deep pride in his service throughout his life. On April 17, 1969, Gilbert was united in marriage to Kathy Lee Decker. Together, they built a life filled with love, devotion, and more than 57 years of marriage. Their home was blessed with two children, Jill and David, who brought them great joy and many cherished memories. Gilbert was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family. He enjoyed working on and detailing cars, and because of that love, much of his working life was spent around vehicles. In his early years, he worked for Glen Becker at his local gas station in Richland before going to work with Pete Wilson at WW Auto Sales, where he remained until 1994. After his years in auto sales, Gilbert worked for James Baranowski at the tire shop and later drove an MFA propane truck for 10 years before retiring. He truly enjoyed visiting with the customers he served over the years, and many of those friendly conversations grew into lifelong friendships. In his spare time, Gilbert loved being outdoors, whether he was mowing and caring for his yard, enjoying picnics at the lake, or simply taking a drive. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and enjoyed watching their games, both on television and in person whenever possible. Nearly every day, he could be found enjoying a bowl of ice cream, one of life’s simple pleasures he especially loved. He also liked walking on his treadmill each day, but above all, Gilbert’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. In 1968, Gilbert made one of the most important decisions of his life when he accepted Jesus as his Savior and was baptized. He attended the Swedeborg Christian Church, where he loved attending Bible studies and worshipping alongside his fellow believers. His strong faith was a steady source of strength, comfort, and guidance through both the hardest times and the happiest moments of his life. Gilbert went home to be with his Lord on Friday, July 17, 2026, while a resident of Richland Care Center in Richland, Missouri. He had attained the age of 78 years. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and the many memories he leaves behind will be treasured by his family and friends. Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents and one great-grandson, Bentley King Alexander Spies. Gilbert leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Kathy Whitham of the home in Richland, MO; two children, Jill Whitham (Kevin Robinson) of Richland, MO and David Whitham (Tara) of Ozark, MO; his grandchildren, Sebastian Whitham of Ozark, MO and Kyten Robinson of Clinton, MO; as well as a host of other relatives and dear friends. Though Gilbert is no longer with us in sight, the love he shared, the faith he lived, and the memories he leaves behind will remain in the hearts of his family and friends forever. Services were held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in the Memorial Chapel of Richland with David Whitham and Pastor Bill Towns officiating. Favorite recorded songs included “Go Rest High on That Mountain,” “Daddy’s Hands,” and “When I Get Where I’m Going.” Escorts included Andrew Decker, Tony Myres, Tom Strutton, James Decker, Dylan Robinson, and Robert Neal Decker. Honorary Escorts included Mark Decker, Robert Decker, Kenny York, Morris Decker, Bobby Myres and Shane Hamms. Burial with Military Honors provided by the Missouri Honors Team followed in the Oaklawn Cemetery of Richland, Missouri. Services were under the care and direction of Memorial Chapel of Richland. Memorial Contributions in memory of Gilbert Whitham can be made and may be left at Memorial Chapel. Online condolences can be sent at www.memorialchapelsandcrematory.com

Gilbert Leroy Whitham

October 16, 1947 - July 17, 2026