Michael Gordon Whitaker

Michael Gordon Whitaker, age 59, of Cumberland Gap, TN, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. He was born February 27, 1966, the son of Edna and the late Fuller Whitaker.

Michael enjoyed days spent at the lake or the family farm pond, casting a line in the peaceful water, where a tug was met with great excitement of the catch to come. On the weekends he cheered on his beloved Tennessee Volunteers with loyalty and heart. He wore his orange with pride and celebrated every victory like it was personal.

Michael was a man on a mission — determined to convince his family that Bigfoot was not only real, but probably just beyond the tree line. Whether scanning the woods with a knowing grin or sharing his latest “evidence,” he never stopped trying to bring the rest of us along for the adventure.

Now, Michael has “Gone Squatching” — fishing pole in hand — perhaps finally tracking down that elusive legend along the peaceful banks of heaven’s own pond. We imagine him smiling, waiting for a bite, and keeping an eye out for large footprints nearby.

Michael is preceded in death by his father, Fuller Whitaker.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Kristen Whitaker; children, Mary (Dalton) Whitaker, John Michael Whitaker, Michelle (David) Gilbert, Stephanie (Malike) Whitaker, Brooklynn Whitaker and Hunter Whitaker; grandchildren, Bradley, Erin, Eleanor, Ayden, Cheyanne, Josiah and Bryson; mother, Edna Whitaker; siblings, “HF” (Diane) Whitaker, Mary Whitaker and John (Tami) Whitaker; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family and special friends.

The family of Michael Gordon Whitaker will receive friends on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, KY. Funeral services will follow at 5:00 p.m. with Reverend Keith Medley presiding. Music will be provided by Dakota and Kendra Heck.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the RoHo Charitable Trust.

Online condolences and register book are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Michael Gordon Whitaker are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.