Robert M. Whatley

Robert M. Whatley, 92, of Columbus, GA passed away on May 19, 2023, at Columbus Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, May 23, 2023 in the Chapel of McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory with Dr. Tim Jones officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31907. A private interment will be held at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery.

Robert was born March 19, 1931 in Henry County Alabama to the late Jefferson Colon Whatley and Elizabeth Gamble Whatley. He was a member of Britt David Baptist Church for 61 years, where he served as a Deacon.  In addition, he was a member of the Britt David Daycare Center Board and an active member of the properties committee.  Robert was a devoted husband and father.  He served his country proudly in the US Army. After serving his country, he was employed with the Ledger Enquirer for 34 years.  Other than spending time with family, he loved to hunt and fish as well as bowling on several area leagues.  Robert was an avid sports fan, his love for Alabama football and the Atlanta Braves was well known.  Other than his parents he is preceded in death by his brother, Rudolph Whatley and sister, Gwendolyn Kincaid.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Bobbie Smith Whatley of Columbus, GA, daughter, Tracy Kurtz (Jay) of Columbus, GA, granddaughters, Madeline Grace Kurtz (Reeves Brashear) of Savannah, GA, Sarah Jane Shirley (Clayton) of Columbus, GA, great grandchild, Iris Elizabeth Shirley of Columbus, GA, sister in-law, Janice King of Dothan, AL, beloved nieces, nephews and other family members.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Columbus Hospice House, 7020 Moon Rd. Columbus, GA 31909 or Britt David Baptist Church, 2801 W Britt David Rd. Columbus, GA 31909