Whalen Gene Hutson gained his wings and met Jesus on March 7, 2023, at the age of 55 years old with his family by his side. In 1967, Whalen was born to T.M. and Ruth Ann (Clay) Hutson in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Whalen spent his childhood in Daisy, Oklahoma, and was a Clayton High School graduate.

He was known for his sly grin, servant's heart, and his big "bear" hugs. He was a man of immense character, integrity, patience, work ethic, and commitment to his family. You wouldn't find Whalen out in town without his starched jeans and boots. His greatest joy in life was being Papa. From basketball games to baseball games and even rodeo events, he was his grandbabies' number one fan. Family cookouts, playing checkers with his grandbabies, and meaningful talks, were some of his favorite hobbies. He always had a listening ear and gave the best advice. Community was important to him. He served his community for 28 years working for McCraw Oil & Propane as a technician. He was their "go-to, fix-all" man. If you needed anything done from installing new propane lines, assessing leaks, or delivering propane he was your guy. During the summers, you could find him mowing yards and ensuring the cemeteries were in pristine condition. He was a man of great faith with a true love for the Lord. He enjoyed attending Victory Baptist Church in Hugo, Oklahoma, where he was a member.

Whalen was preceded in death by his father T.M. and mother Ruth Ann (Clay) Hutson. Whalen leaves behind his son Bradley and wife Sheryl Hutson of Nashoba, OK, his grandchildren Faelynne and Wyatt Hutson of Nashoba, OK; his true love Tammy Tyson-Gravitt of Hugo, OK, bonus children, Shaelan and Krissy Gravitt of Powderly, TX, Casey and Kadan Boling of Hugo, OK, and bonus grandchildren, Callen and Cooper Gravitt of Powderly, TX. He was loved by his siblings: Patricia and Butch Dawson of Clayville, OK, Slick Hutson of Daisy, OK, Connie Wyrick of Stringtown, OK, and Crockett and Gladice Hutson of Pittsburg, OK. He was loved by so many and will be greatly missed by all his family and friends.

Eulogy ~ Chief Gary Batton

Pastor Brad Michael officiating with interment to follow at Soper Cemetery

Pallbearers

Clayton Hutson

Henry Hutson

Michael Smith

Shaelan Gravitt

Casey Boling

Chase Buchanan

Kyle Buchanan

Chandler Moffatt