Henry Edward Whitaker, lovingly known to family and friends as Ed, entered eternal rest on July 21, 2026, at the age of 92, surrounded by the love of his family.

Ed was born on May 21, 1934, in Lexington, Oklahoma, to H.A. and Pauline Whitaker. He graduated from Capitol Hill High School in Oklahoma City with the Class of 1952, beginning a life marked by hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved.

In 1979, Ed married the love of his life, Betty Allen, and for 39 years together they built a beautiful life filled with adventure, generosity, and compassion. One of their greatest joys was opening their home to foster children, exchange students, and others in need, while loving and caring for each of them as if they were their own. Their home was a place where kindness, stability, and unconditional love were always found.

Following Betty's passing in 2018, Ed was fortunate to find companionship with Carol Carter. Carol became a special and important part of his life, providing friendship, companionship, love and care during his later years. Ed's family is grateful for the happiness and support she brought into his life.

Ed began his career at Carl's Meat Company, formerly known as Quality Meat Packing, before joining American Airlines, where he worked as an HVAC technician for 24 years. Through dedication and an incredible work ethic, he faithfully served until his retirement in 1987. He believed in doing every job to the best of his ability and demonstrated that commitment every day.

Anyone who knew Ed knew he was never short on opinions or a well-timed joke. He had a quick wit, loved making people laugh, and wasn't afraid to speak his mind. Beneath his humor was a caring, devoted father and stepfather who worked tirelessly to provide for his family and was always willing to teach his children through both words and example. He embodied grit and determination, refusing to let life's hardships or physical ailments define him or slow him down.

Ed had a passion for life that was evident in everything he pursued. He was an avid bowler, participating in many leagues, and he and Betty spent many happy years traveling together to compete in bowling tournaments across the U.S. He also had a deep love for animals, especially horses. Raising and racing horses became another adventure they shared, taking them to competitions across the country and creating cherished memories along the way. In their later years Ed and Betty loved to take cruises.

Sports were another great love of Ed's life, especially Tulsa Golden Hurricane football and softball. But more than watching sports, his greatest joy was cheering on his grandchildren. Whether it was proudly watching his grandkids play competitive softball, baseball, and basketball, Ed was there. He rarely missed an opportunity to support them, and his presence in the crowd was a constant reminder of how deeply he loved his family.

One of Ed's most faithful companions was his beloved dog, Brownie. The bond they shared brought him immeasurable joy, and it brings comfort to know that Brownie was surely there to greet him. We also find peace in knowing Ed has been joyfully reunited with his beloved wife, Betty, and with the many family members who went before him.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, H.A. and Pauline Whitaker; his brother, Carl Whitaker, and sister-in-law, Maxine Whitaker; his beloved wife, Betty Whitaker, who passed away in 2018, and his stepson, Mark Allen who passed this past April.

He leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his memory: his daughter Debbie Savage and husband Mark; his son DeWayne and wife Kim; Step-son Jeff Allen and wife Joy; step-daughter Barbara Hoffman and husband Joe; step-daughter Kathy Phipps and husband Robbie; and step-daughter Pam Allen; foster son David Bagby and wife Michelle, and many extended family members, including 14 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren, friends, and all whose lives were touched by his kindness and generosity.

His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the memories that will continue to bring smiles for generations to come.

Services have been entrusted to Schaudt Funeral Service. Friends & family may leave condolences and kind words of comfort at www.schaudtfuneralservice.com