Roger D. Wilhite, Sr.

Roger D. Wilhite, Sr., 79, of Martinsville, Indiana passed away on September 9, 2025. He suffered from Alzheimer’s disease the last few years of his life. Roger began working at GM Allison Transmission Plant 14 in his 20’s, officially retiring in 2004. He proudly joined the Marion County Sheriff’s Department, Reserve Division, in April of 1994. He was promoted to sergeant in October of 1996 through September of 1999 when he left to pursue other interests.

One of his favorite enjoyments in life were motorcycles and he owned several different bikes until he was able to move from a Harley Davidson Sportster to his treasured red Harley Davidson Softail Custom, which was custom painted, including changes of pipes, seats, chrome and other additions over the years. Roger owned many cars over the years, including a time when he had two car bodies and only one motor. He would change it back and forth based upon the season of the year. His three most favorites were the 1970 Silver Nova with ghost flames, which was displayed at World of Wheels in 2005, the 1955 Chevy with subtle ghost flames and a massive, big-block motor, and his most recent 1965 candy apple red Chevy Chevelle with a ground pounding 540, 725 hp engine. He loved going to car shows where he developed many friendships. Roger never assumed he would win an award but there are many in the garage. He also enjoyed listening to a wide variety of music, the louder the better.

Projects around the home including carpentry and landscaping, were among Roger’s many skills, but he only did electrical or plumbing work when absolutely necessary. He was always willing to help others with their projects, but it was a rare occasion when he would ask for help from others.

Roger was preceded in death by his mother Inezjean Swatts, infant daughter Deborah Wilhite, and adult son Robert Wilhite and siblings Luanne Krueger, James Mobley, Wendell Mobley, Raymajean Lewis and infant Russelle Richey. He is survived by his loving wife Vicki Haviland and the mother of his children LoDoris Patton. Surviving children include Roger D. Wilhite, Jr. (Jeannie), Sarah Marker, and Elizabeth Sira (Richard), siblings William “Bill” Mobley, Bobbie Buckner (Harry) and Ednette Slocum, several grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Beloved pet kitties included Tommy John and Toby Joe, Misty Lynn, Katie Beth, Heidi Marie and Annie Belle.

Roger will be greatly missed by family and friends. Please feel free to donate in Roger’s name to the Morgan County Humane Society located at 690 West Mitchell Avenue in Martinsville, IN 46151.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 17, 2025, from 11 am to 1 pm at Flanner Buchanan-Floral Park. Funeral service will be Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 1 pm at Flanner Buchanan-Floral Park. Burial will follow at Floral Park Cemetery.