1937-2023

A Celebration of Life funeral service for Harmel Gene Whitaker, 85, of Plano was held on Monday, Oct. 2, 2023, at Eubank Funeral Home with Dr. Mike Hackney officiating. Pallbearers were Tim Pennington, Dan Whitmire, Andrew Fastle, Reagan Sumner, Eric Whitaker, Ernie Whitaker, and Evan Whitaker. Harmel went home to the Lord on Sept. 27, 2023, in Plano. He was born on Dec. 11, 1937, in Canton to Earnest Whitaker and Rosa Edwards Whitaker.

Harmel grew up in Canton and graduated from Canton High School. He was a great football player, track star and a huge help on the basketball court in his years at Canton. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Canton growing up. Harmel married his one true love, Lucy Maciel, on Nov. 27, 1957. The couple would have celebrated 66 years this November. Harmel and Lucy built a beautiful life together in the Dallas area. The couple were long time members of Sunnyglen Baptist Church in Oak Cliff (which is now Eastridge Baptist in Red Oak). Harmel drove a truck for four years as he attended Arlington State College and later, he became the owner of H. G. Whitaker Insurance (Farmers Insurance). Harmel enjoyed spending his leisure time at Lake Whitney and Lake Palestine crappie fishing. He enjoyed golf and tennis, but his achievements in bowling and bowling leagues was where he shined. Harmel bowled for over 50 years and held awards for three perfect games. Harmel’s pride and joy was his family. He dearly loved time with family and friends. Harmel will live on in the hearts and memories of all that knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Earnest and Rosa Whitaker; siblings: Gordon Whitaker, Ruby Wann, Ruth Thomas, Glen Whitaker, Wade Whitaker, and Janet Whatley.

Harmel is survived by his beloved wife, Lucy Whitaker; son, Greg Whitaker and wife, Phyllis; daughter, Tamara Whitmire and husband, Dan; grandchildren, Amanda Fastle, and husband, Andrew; Victoria Whitmire, Lauren Whitmire and Katie Whitaker; great grandchild, Aiden Fastle and baby boy due in October; sister, Hazel Pennington and husband, Bob; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Interment was at Haven of Memories Memorial Park in Canton.