Mr. Wilhoite was born Aug. 28, 1935, in Frankfort, Ky., the son of the late Lon Wilhoite and Mallie Wilhoite, and was a third generation stone mason.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Benji Wilhoite; and 13 brothers and sisters.
Surviving is his wife, Bobbie Wilhoite; children, Terri Paulk, Vicki and Dewight Mulkey, Craig Wilhoite, Lynn Peckin and Sue Carnes; grandchildren, Dr. Jason Paulk, Savannah Wilhoite, Dylan Wilhoite, Barry and Michael Mulkey and a number of other grandchildren; 39 foster children; a special nephew, David Burns; special friends, Doug and Bambi Teague; and a number of other nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held Monday, Dec. 10, 2012, at 3 p.m. in the chapel of Owen Funeral Home, with Rev. Max Mulkey officiating.
Owen Funeral Home, 12 Collins Drive, Cartersville is in charge of the arrangements.