Hershal Roscoe Whitaker

Hershal Roscoe Whitaker, age 94, of Somerset, Kentucky, passed away peacefully in his home on June 6th, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on March 2nd, 1930, Hershal was the beloved son of James Thomas Whitaker (1893-1942) and Bessie Whitaker (1899-1945). He grew up in Somerset, where he cultivated a deep love for his community and the people within it.

Hershal proudly served his country as a veteran of the Korean War. He bravely served in the 7th Infantry Division in the Signal Corps, where his commitment to duty and his fellow soldiers earned him the respect and admiration of all who served alongside him. Throughout his life, he touched the hearts of many with his generosity and compassion. He will be fondly remembered for his dedication to his family, his work, and his faith.

Hershal was married to Irene Slavey Whitaker of Somerset, KY, to whom he married on June 29th, 1951. She passed away on August 18th, 2010. Together, they raised two beautiful daughters and one handsome son, James Thomas (Tommy). Hershal is survived by his two daughters and a special son-in-law, Carol (Carolyn) Antonio and Dianna & Bobby Lyons. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jeremy Lyons, Joseph (Kristen) Lyons, Justin Whitaker, Jessica (John) Brainard, and Anthony Antonio. Additionally, he leaves behind great-grandchildren Ashtyn (Nathan) Carter, Orion Lyons, Abbie Lyons, Ethan Brainard, Levi Brainard, Dane Brainard, Olivia Lyons, and Beau Brainard; two great-great-grandchildren Weston Coffey and Nathalie Carter; as well as one sister-in-law, a brother-in-law, and numerous nieces & nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Irene; one son, James Thomas (Tommy) Whitaker; three brothers, Dorwin, Sheryll (Bill), and Murrell Whitaker; three sisters, Elsie Turner, Dorothy Perkins, and Melba Norfleet; one sister-in-law and a brother-in-law; as well as numerous nieces & nephews.

He also leaves behind a host of friends he spent nearly every morning for the last 40 years at McDonald's in Somerset. Hershal cherished these friendships and the camaraderie they shared over breakfast, known as "Hershal's Breakfast," consisting of sausage, round eggs, hash browns, biscuits with jam and butter, and milk. Additionally, he leaves behind his special friend, Marie Davis, whom he cared very much for. A special thank-you is extended to Kim Gross, Comfort Keepers, Hospice of Lake Cumberland, and Amber & Arlene from VA, who have kept up his spirits in the last few years. The family would also like to thank Kristen Lyons for her caring and help she has given the family.

Hershal Whitaker will be forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew him.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 1:00 PM with Bro. David Bullock officiating.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, June 11, 2024 from 4:00 PM until 9:00 PM, and Wednesday from 9:00 AM until time for services at Pulaski Funeral Home.

Burial will follow in McKinney Cemetery.

Military honors will be performed by American Legion Post #38.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests expressions of sympathy be made in the form of donations to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 97251, Washington, DC 20090-7251.

Pulaski Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with arrangements.