Robert Allen Whitley, Jr. (Bob) age 74, a loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 3rd, 2023 in Franklin, TN.
Born on January 9th, 1949 in Birmingham, AL, Bob consistently displayed kindness, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to Jesus Christ, who radiated through him to everyone he met. He truly loved the Lord and loved both studying and teaching the Bible. He served in many churches as a Sunday School teacher and was always amongst the most popular. His knowledge of history, and ability to tell stories, made him fascinating to listen to and learn from. The number one fruit of the spirit is love, and that he did, he loved. He also gave the best hugs and was famous for saying, “Everyone needs a hug”.
Throughout Bob’s life, his greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He cherished every moment spent with them and was always there to provide guidance, support, and unconditional love. He met his wife Suzanne in study hall at Phillips High School, and they were inseparable from the moment they met. In fact, he still kept their love letters in a box in his office. Bob and Susie had 53 amazing years of marriage together, and he absolutely loved her beyond measure. You rarely saw one without the other because she was his entire entire world.
Bob’s daughter, Julie Whitley-Romano held a special place in his heart. They shared a love of Alabama football, the New York Yankees, quick-witted jokes, Whitley sarcasm, trolling one another with funny, daily texts, and gifting one another hoodies and hats.
Bob also leaves behind his mother, Lois Whitley, two brothers, John Whitley (Windy) and David Whitley (Cindy). He also leaves behind 4 beloved grandchildren that he adored so much, he would be willing to buy Auburn gear for: Syd Hayes, Sara Sutton Taylor, Sophie Suzanne Taylor, and Jackson Treadwell.
Bob’s touched the lives of many with his kindness and generosity, leaving an indelible impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we say farewell to this remarkable man, let us not mourn his passing but celebrate that he is with his Lord and Savior in Glory, and that he has reunited with his daughter, Shelli Lynne, whom he so longed to be with in Paradise.
