Wendell L. Whitaker

Wendell L. Whitaker, 85, of Lafayette, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026, at his home. He was born January 28, 1941, in Gordon, KY, to the late James and Lola Whitaker.

Wendell graduated from Kingdom Come High School in Cumberland, KY.  His marriage was to his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Thursa Cornett. She preceded him in death in 2019.

Wendell founded W. Whitaker & Associates and ran the successful business for 40 years. He worked hard to build a life he loved and was blessed to be able to share it with his beloved wife of almost 60 years.

He was an avid gardener and could grow just about anything, but tomatoes and green beans were his specialty. Wendell was a John Deere fan and spent many hours riding around on his gator, checking his crops, and trying to figure out ways to keep the critters from eating all of the vegetables, especially his sweet corn.

Wendell was an excellent cook and loved sharing meals with his family. An evening was never complete without some dessert. He was a member of the NRA and enjoyed watching NASCAR, football, and college basketball.

Wendell looked forward to spending winters in Florida where he could relax with a cup of coffee in the morning or a cold beer in the evening. He loved being around his family, especially his great grandchildren who brought him so much joy. Wendell had a big heart and looked for the best in others. He was loved so much and will be missed by those who were blessed, and lucky enough to know him.

Surviving are his children Pamela A. (Mark) Burton, Wendell Bryan (Gail) Whitaker all of Lafayette, grandchildren Jessica King, Emily (Zach) McFadden, Amy Ford, Kyle (Addison) Whitaker, Bradley (Maddison) Whitaker, and 7 great grandchildren.  Wendell was 1 of 9 children and is survived by 3 sisters.

Along with his wife, Wendell was preceded in death by his parents, son Brad E. Whitaker and 2 great grandchildren, Colten McFadden and Easton King, and 5 siblings.

Visitation will be from 1:00 pm until the time of the service at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd., Rev. Joseph Park Jr. officiating.  Private entombment will be at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens Mausoleum.