John R. Whitson, of Galesburg, IL, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, surrounded by the family who loved him dearly. Born December 20, 1928, in London, Laurel County, Kentucky, to Walter Whitson and Sudie Elizabeth (Johnson) Whitson, John grew up with a quick wit, a kind heart, and a deep love of music that would follow him throughout his life. In 1960, John married the love of his life, Sandy (Peterson) Whitson. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandy; his parents, Walter and Sudie Whitson; his brother, Audley Whitson; his sister, Leone Young; and his granddaughter, Arika Ayres. A special thank you to Rachel Gummerson, lovingly nicknamed, “Radiant Ray” by John himself.