Richard Eugene Whitney

Richard Eugene Whitney, age 68, of Atlas, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at McLaren Flint, surrounded by his loving family. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place.

A memorial service to celebrate Richard’s life will be held on Monday, January 26, 2026, at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services, located at 1194 East Mt. Morris Road, Mt. Morris, Michigan, with Fr. Roy Horning officiating. Family will be present to receive friends from 11:00am until the time of the service at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Richard’s tribute wall at martinfuneralhome.com.

Richard was born on February 13, 1957, in Flint, Michigan, the son of Richard Whitney and Ruth (Farnsworth) Ferguson. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Mt. Morris before transferring to Mt. Morris High School, where he later obtained his diploma in 1978. Richard was employed as a parts handler for General Motors from 2006 until 2021, where he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. Before working at General Motors, Richard installed carpet around the Flint and surrounding areas.

Above all else, Richard was a devoted father and family man. He was blessed with two sons whom he loved deeply and supported wholeheartedly. For more than 20 years, Richard coached his sons’ soccer teams, helping not only his own children but countless other kids develop a love for the game and learn the value of teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. He will always be remembered by his players as a man who put the love of the game before wins and losses.

Richard had a true passion for the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, trail riding, four-wheeling, and camping at his cabin in Glennie, Michigan. He also loved riding motorcycles and relaxing at home watching car remodeling shows. His adventurous spirit, generous heart, and willingness to help others will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Left to cherish his memory are his lifetime partner, Jean Conley; his children Jason Whitney (Nicole), Matthew Whitney, Aaron Conley (Bethany), Adam Conley, and Jessica Potter (Stephan); and his beloved grandchildren McKenzie, Peyton, Madison, Landon, Gavin, Peter, Emberlynn, John, Lincoln, Alexander, Owen, Teddy, and Leo. He is also survived by his sister Sandy Walli (Bob), along with many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Richard Whitney and Ruth Ferguson; his stepfather Chuck Ferguson; and his siblings Wanda Bicknell, Diane VanAmburg, Gary Whitney, and Chuck Whitney.

Richard will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his love of family, the outdoors, and the countless lives he touched throughout his journey.