Mary Lou Whitaker

Mary Lou Whitaker, 85, of Atkins, Arkansas, passed away on May 5, 2024.  She was born on July 20, 1938, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Roy and Hazel Traver.  Mary Lou was a devoted mother and grandmother, always kind and available to help others.  

Mary Lou is survived by her sons; Douglas Goldetsky, Brian Whitaker, Jeffrey (Christine) Whitaker, and Andrew (Thanayia) Whitaker; 7 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchild.  She was preceded in death by her father, Roy Traver, mother, Hazel Traver, sister, Carol Thompson Szalay, brother, Ronald Traver, husband, Tony Whitaker, and son, Mark Whitaker.  

Mary Lou enjoyed traveling with her children and grandchildren, especially to National Parks.   She was the former President of the Dolton/South Holland, Illinois Junior Women’s Club and the Cub Scouts den leader for sons Brian and Jeffrey.  

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Boyd Funeral Home Chapel.