Wilbert Eugenne "Gene" Whitson

Wilbert ‘Gene’ Whitson, 80, Emporia, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025 at the North Kansas City Health Hospital in North Kansas City, Missouri

Wilbert Eugene Whitson was born in Rolla, Missouri on April 8, 1945. From a young age he was raised by his grandparents, Walter and Rachel Whitson. Wilbert was joined in marriage by Marietta S.E. Sunderhuse on April 25, 1965 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Saint Charles, Missouri. She resides in Emporia. Wilbert is also survived by his daughter; Kim Gillis, (husband David Gillis) of Bradenton, FL, son; David Whitson, of Emporia, KS, grandchildren; Landrie Phillips (husband Luke Phillips) of Emporia, KS, Garrett Whitson of Emporia, KS and Blake Whitson of Bel Aire, KS as well as great-grandson; Colt Phillips and a brother to Colt coming soon. He is preceded in death by his grandparents.

He was a member of the Messiah Lutheran Church, Emporia, Kansas. Wilbert was a truck driver for 42 years and retired 2 years ago in 2023. He has driven for several companies - United Van Lines, Dolly Madison, Emporia Motor Freight and the latest being L-Cat of Emporia, KS.

Funeral services will be held at the Messiah Lutheran Church, Emporia, Kansas, on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at 10:30 AM, conducted by Pastor Norbert Tegtmeier. Burial will follow in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, west of Olpe, KS. The family will receive friends at the Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home Tuesday evening from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

A memorial has been established to Messiah Lutheran Church sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box #175, Emporia, Kansas 66801