Robert A. Whitright 52, of Willard passed away on Monday April 1st, 2024 at home surrounded by family after a courageous, private battle with cancer.
He was born in Willard on September 17th, 1971 to Robert J. and Charlene (Patton) Whitright. He grew up in North Fairfield and graduated from South Central High school in 1990. Obtained his bachelor of Social Studies degree from Ashland University in 1995. Worked as a substitute teacher for area schools before becoming employed by the Willard City Schools in 1996. He received his Masters in Early American and Modern European history from Bowling Green State University in 2000 and a Masters degree in Psychology from Capella University in 2019.
While at Willard High school, he taught American history, AP History and College credit plus History and Psychology for BGSU. He served as president of the teachers' union from 2008 to 2010. He was the academic challenge advisor for Willard High School for 20 years, winning first place in 2006 and in 2011. As his children attended Celeryville Christian school, he served as president of the school board from 2016 to 2020.
During the summer months he coached or assisted with the Willard youth softball teams. One of his greatest joys, was watching his daughters play sports. As time went on, he cherished the growth Emma had in golf and Ellie had in softball.
Hobbies included finished carpentry, he had made several pieces of furniture, his most accomplished being his barrister bookcase. Additional hobbies included golfing, guns, and fly fishing. In recent years, he enjoyed youth hunting for deer and golfing with his oldest daughter Emma. His knowledge and passion for history led to yearly family vacations, visiting historical sites and National Parks. He excelled in creating the itineraries for every trip. He and his family have visited 23 National parks and 43 states in their travels. His favorite National parks included: Glacier, Rocky Mountain and Bryce.
He attended the Church of Christ in Ashland.
He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Bettie (Worcester) Whitright, children, Emma and Ellie both at home. His mother Charlene Whitright, brother John (Michelle) Whitright and family both of North Fairfield. Brother-in-law Robert (Sharon) Worcester and family of Norwalk, Andrew Worcester of Willard and Philip (Marianna) Worcester and family of rural Willard as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father Robert "Jack" Whitright, Grandparents Robert & Gertrude Whitright and Zella Patton and in-laws Russell and Roberta Worcester.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory to the Academic Challenge team of Willard High School or The Piggyback Foundation (When Pigs Fly) of Norwalk.
He and family wish to thank Heartland Hospice for their in-home care.
Calling hours will be on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Secor Funeral Home in Willard, Ohio. Robert’s Funeral will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Secor Funeral Home in Willard, Ohio with Pastor Tim Nowlin officiating the services. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in New Haven, Ohio. Online condolences can be made to Robert’s family by visiting www.secorfuneralhomes.com
Condolences
Tina Crossen - Apr 5, 2024
My deepest condolences to your family. Mr. Whitright was my Academic Challenge coach 2005-2009, and he was such a positive influence. He was always kind and caring, and full of joy and humor. His daughter was born during that time, and he was such a proud dad! What a great loss to your family and to the community he served.
Janny Nauman - Apr 4, 2024
I met Bob, when he taught college course at ate H.S. For North Central State. Alway a professional and committed to his students. My condolences to the entire family.
Joan Ebert - Apr 4, 2024
Bettie, I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your loving husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls during this difficult time. Sending love and hugs.
Dr. Ricky & Victoria Branham & Family - Apr 3, 2024
So sorry to hear about everything. You all in our thoughts and prayers for God’s comfort. 2 Corinthians 1:3
Melissa Eichenlaub Smith - Apr 3, 2024
Bettie and family, I was so shocked to hear this news…praying for you during this time of loss, and that God lifts the weight from you.
Denice Ream - Apr 3, 2024
So very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to your family, Bobbie was a fantastic teacher.
Rebecca Plotner - Apr 3, 2024
Bob will be deeply missed. He had such an impact on so many students over the years, and he was a highly respected staff member at WCS. His memory will live on through all of us. To Bettie, Emma & Ellie - sending you all lots of love and prayers of comfort during such a difficult time. ❤️
Allison Beebe - Apr 3, 2024
So sad to hear of his passing, my heart goes out to the Whitright family and friends. I had the pleasure to have Mr. Whitright in high school, and he was a delightful person. He helped me through so many situations and always made my day! Through golf, essays, life decisions and college choices he was always there when I needed to talk to someone. I will always carry the advice and life lessons that he gave me. As a teacher he had an immense impact on the lives of his students, colleagues, and the entire school community. He was not only a dedicated educator but also a mentor, guide, and an inspiration for so many. During this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends.
Reneta Music (Deuschle) - Apr 2, 2024
I am so saddened to see this and cannot imagine the emptiness he has left in your heart. I have fun memories of pep band and watching Bob play trombone with Scot, Ed, and Mike. He was always so kind and fun to be around. Please accept my condolences.
Sandy Fleming - Apr 2, 2024
Bettie, thinking of you and your family. Sending prayers for peace and comfort at this difficult time. So very sorry.
Connie (K’Meyer) Sherrer - Apr 2, 2024
My heart grieves for you all. A life well lived taken too soon. Surely our savior said to Bob, well done good and faithful servant. 😥🙏
Bev Ganni - Apr 2, 2024
Charlene and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May God hold you gently in His arm during this time of sorrow. God bless.
Connie Montgomery - Apr 2, 2024
My thoughts and prayers go out to his mother, Charlene and brother, John. When the Lord calls our loved ones home, He leaves a gift of memories in exchange. Hold on to your memories and let them guide you during this time of sadness. ✝️
Mary Beth Chisholm Harmon - Apr 2, 2024
So sorry Charlene for the loss of your son. Praying your whole family will find peace.
Ben & Marilyn Phillips - Apr 2, 2024
So sorry to hear about the passing of Bob. Will keep your family in our prayers.
Jennifer KMeyer Ludwig - Apr 2, 2024
Bettie and family, I am so very sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. My heart breaks for you all. Bob was one of my favorite people in high school and youth group. I’ve been praying, and continue to pray for peace and comfort for you all.
Buddy Workman - Apr 2, 2024
Whitright Family my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Bob was a childhood friend and teammate on our little league team. Many great memories of growing up in NF .
Stephanie Hernandez ( Class of 2012) - Apr 2, 2024
I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Whitright. He was one of my favorite teachers , his knowledge about history was remarkable, and I enjoyed his lectures very much it solidified my desire to continue education after high school. You could tell he loved his job very much and was dedicated to his students success . My caring thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Dave and Nancy Hicks - Apr 2, 2024
Sympathy to your family for your loss.
John - Apr 2, 2024
rest easy
Gwenmarie (Adkins) Donthnier - Apr 2, 2024
My deepest condolences Bettie, to you and your family. I have very fond memories of Bob and all of us growing up. You are in my thoughts.
Moe and Mary Moore - Apr 2, 2024
Bettie and Daughters, Our thoughts and prayers are with you, we are so very sorry for your loss.
Cyndi Shoup - Apr 2, 2024
Sending prayers if comfort. Bob was such a great person who truly cared about the students. May he rest in peace.
Bob Boyd - Apr 2, 2024
Dear Bettie, Emma and Ellie, I am so sorry for your loss! Sending lots of love and prayers to you all during this difficult time. Love, Cousin Bob
Lori Logan - Apr 2, 2024
Bettie I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers and thoughts of comfort to you and your family.
Tessa Hamons - Apr 2, 2024
Mr. Whitright was one of my favorite teachers. I feel blessed to have experienced his wonderful classes. He truly cared deeply for all of his students. I send my condolences to his children and wife.
Gerri Vesterman - Apr 2, 2024
Charlene and family, so sorry to read this. Worked with Charlene for many years at RRD. May the Lord keep you close to him thru this difficult time.Youbare in my prayers 🙏🙏
Karen Dickinson - Apr 1, 2024
Bettie, so sorry to hear the passing of your husband. Praying for you and the girls during this difficult time.
Charlotte Cunningham - Apr 1, 2024
Prayers of comfort and peace for all of you. I am so sorry for your loss.
Sandy Bradstock - Apr 1, 2024
John, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother. He sounded like someone who appreciated life to the fullest, and managed to make the most of his all too few years. My prayers are with you and your family.
Michelle - Apr 1, 2024
He was one of my very favorite teachers, truly. I was so bad at geometry lol, awful, and he was always so patient with me.
Renee Harris - Apr 1, 2024
Betty, so sorry to hear this, during this time of profound sorrow, I want you to know that you’re not alone. Your husband’s memory will forever live on in your heart, and in the cherished moments you shared. Sending thoughts, prayers and hugs.
Mary Jane Patterson - Apr 1, 2024
Bettie, so sorry to learn of your husband’s passing. May there be comfort in knowing that he is at peace.
Sarah Pennell - Apr 1, 2024
So sorry to hear this sad news. Bob was such a good high school friend and I have such fond memories. Prayers for comfort for the family through this very difficult time.
Shelley Holden - Apr 1, 2024
I'm so very sorry for your loss. Bob was a true gentleman. Many prayers for peace and comfort.
Lisa Phillips - Apr 1, 2024
So very sorry to hear of Bobs passing. An amazing teacher and colleague. Prayers of peace for all who loved him.
Jill Dials - Apr 1, 2024
So very sorry to hear of Bob's passing. I have lots of fond memories of our days growing on North Main Street. My condolences to the John, Charleen, Betty and the girls, and the rest of the family. May Bob rest in peace.
Peggy Opatken - Apr 1, 2024
So sorry to hear of Bob's passing away. Hope he got the card I sent. I taught with Bob and always enjoyed our talks. Glad he did so much with his life. Sorry he's gone too soon.
Mike Partin - Apr 1, 2024
My condolences to the family of Mr. Whitright. I remember him as a distinguished and professional teacher. I still speak of him today. God bless the family and loved one he left. My prayers are with you.
Scotith - Apr 1, 2024
Very sorry to hear of this sad news. Bob was a great high school friend. A lot of great memories. Thoughts and prayers. The Sutherlands.
Tricia Baker - Apr 1, 2024
Betty, my condolences and spiritual blessings to you and your families
JulieSteinmetz - Apr 1, 2024
So sorry for your loss .What a nice man he was.
Sister Diane Hay - Apr 1, 2024
Bettie and Family, know that my love and prayers come your way. May God bless you during this time.
Justin Beebe - Apr 1, 2024
My condolences to the Whitright family. It was an absolute pleasure to have him as an academic challenge advisor during my senior year. He was kind, encouraging, and always understanding. I've also taken to heart some words of advice he gave me concerning going into teaching as I've progressed along that career path myself. May he rest in peace and wishing comfort to the family at this time.
Francine and Larry Smith - Apr 1, 2024
Charlene, John, Bettie, Emma, Ellie and all family members as we were praying for Bob, we are praying all of you. May the Lord comfort you during this very difficult time and also be with you when it just hits you.🙏 May you feel God’s presence everyday forward with his love, peace, grace, hope, mercy, and reassurance. Know He is with you through this journey❤️ I worked with Charlene for years through her boys growing up and the love and dedication she had for her boys. Hold those dear memories close to your heart . Our sincere condolences and keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. The is with you all🙏
Ashley Steinmetz - Apr 1, 2024
Love and prayers to you and your family. He will be missed dearly.
David and Merry Holida - Apr 1, 2024
Bettie and family, So very sorry for your loss. Both our kids had your husband for a teacher and they loved him. He touched so many young lives and his legacy will go on. Hugs and prayers to you all.
Kristen Blackburn - Apr 1, 2024
My condolences to the family. He was a wonderful teacher. He made history fun and the reason I love history so much. He is one of the reasons I work in law enforcement as well. He was an incredible mentor and never gave up on his students. Rest easy.
Harley Stumbo - Apr 1, 2024
One of my favorite teachers. Praying comfort and peace for all of his loved ones
Don and Sharon Danhoff - Apr 1, 2024
Condolences to the Whitright family. Rest in peace, Bob. You were a loving servant/teacher/coach to many of the youth in Willard. You will be missed by many.
Ashley Steinmetz - Apr 1, 2024
Live and prayers to you and your family. He will be missed dearly.
Deb Barnett - Apr 1, 2024
Keeping your family in my prayers now and the days ahead. I’m so sorry for your loss.
