Wilton Gerald Whitehead (Tulia)

Wilton Gerald Whitehead, 96, of Tulia passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, January 2, 2026 at Rose Hill Cemetery with Rev. John Gillespie officiating.

A visitation will be held prior to the graveside service at 1:00 PM Friday, January 2, 2026 at the funeral home.

Wilton Whitehead was born on May 25, 1929, in Silverton, Texas, to C.L. and Planie (Stephens) Whitehead. Growing up on a farm southwest of Silverton, Wilton graduated from Silverton High School. On July 23, 1949, he married the love of his life, Shirley Ann Haynes, in Silverton. Together, they embarked on a journey of farming, and in 1954 relocated to Tulia. Wilton and Shirley enjoyed 67 years together and were devoted members of First Baptist Church.

Wilton enjoyed serving his community. His role with the Tulia EMS Rescue Team was particularly dear to his heart, as helping others gave him profound fulfillment. His commitment to service was further exemplified through his involvement in a variety of civic organizations, where he contributed to the betterment of his community.

In his professional life, Wilton was part owner of the John Deere House in Tulia. His entrepreneurial spirit flourished as he owned and operated Wilton's Furniture and later Diamond W Supplies, leaving a lasting impression on those he served.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Swisher Memorial Hospital, Calvert Home Health, Traditions Hospice, and My Lometa Place for their compassionate care for Wilton.

He is preceded in death by his parents, C.L. and Planie Whitehead; his wife, Shirley Whitehead; brother, George Ray Whitehead; sister-in-law, Lallie (Haynes) Patton; and son-in-law, Larry "Happy" Cole.

He is survived by his two daughters, Kathy Cole of Tulia and Sharon (Kenny) Hughes of Plainview; two grandchildren, Jason (Holly) Hughes of Canyon and Carrie Hughes (Jeffre Skipworth) of Dallas; and one great granddaughter, Kenley Hughes of Canyon; his sister-in-law, Faye Whitehead of Carthage; nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Tulia, TX or Swisher County Senior Citizens.