With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Larry Wane Whitener of Hillsboro, MO.
What follows is written with love, by those who knew him best.
The lessons of service stay, even when the years move on.
Larry Wane Whitener, 71, of Hillsboro, Missouri, passed away on April 27, 2026 peacefully in his home with his family present, after a hard-fought 13-year battle with Parkinson's disease.
Born on January 30, 1955, Larry lived a life defined by hard work, humor, and unwavering principles. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1971 to 1973, where he was known for his expert marksmanship. He carried that same sense of duty and strength into everything he did.
Larry was a skilled general contractor who took immense pride in his work. Whether it was building something from the ground up or fixing what others couldn't, his work ethic was matched only by his strong sense of integrity. He was also proud to be a freemason with Masonic Lodge #73.
He was also known for his quick wit and sense of humor. Larry had a way of making people laugh, even in difficult times, and his presence could lighten any room. But above all else, he was the steady foundation for his family-the rock his loved ones leaned on through every season of life.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia Whitener (McGee); his daughter, Kerri Sizemore (Whitener), and son-in-law, Ryan Sizemore, of Festus, Missouri. He is also survived by his sisters, Rhonda Kelley of Hillsboro, Missouri, and Patricia Whitener of Greenville, Tennessee; along with his niece, Kristal Kelley, and nephew, Shawn Kelley.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Christine Gregg, and his parents, Ronald and Bonnie Whitener.
Larry will be remembered for his strength, his laughter, and his craftsmanship. His legacy is not only in what he built with his hands, but in the lives he held together with his heart.
Dietrich-Mothershead Funeral Home serves Desoto, Hillsboro, Festus, Herculaneum, and Olympian Village with funeral and cremation services. Our mission at Dietrich-Mothershead is to help you create an event for your loved one that celebrates the choices they made, the relationship you shared, and honors the memory of your loved one.
