Michael Ben Whitson, Sr.

Michael Ben Whitson Sr., known as Mike to his friends and family, passed away on May 10th, 2026, at the age of 76 in his hometown of Fort Smith, Arkansas. From a young age, Mike demonstrated a fierce love of learning, paired with a keen intelligence and a strong work ethic. After graduating from the University of Arkansas in 1979 with a degree in mechanical engineering, Mike worked as an engineer in various capacities for the next 47 years. In conversation, he often spoke with passion and intelligence on subjects ranging from politics to mathematics to scientific principles to philosophy and, of course, football and classic cars.

A veteran of the Iraq war, Mike’s sense of duty to country was instilled in him and his brothers early on by their father, Ben Whitson, himself a World War II veteran. Mike continued this tradition of service as a full-time member of the Air National Guard, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. After retiring, Mike continued to work as a state employee in the Civil Engineering branch of the 188th Fighter Wing until his death.

He was predeceased by his parents Ben and Lila Whitson and his brother Steven Lynn Whitson, Mike is survived by his son, Michael Ben Whitson Jr., and daughter-in-law, Tracy Fain Whitson, and two granddaughters, Story Viviano and Saylor Whitson, his brother, Kim Alan Whitson, and his sister-in-law Mickie Whitson (the wife of his late brother, Steve Whitson), and their families.

Cremation will be under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home, and a memorial graveside service will be conducted at the Fort Smith National Cemetery on 10:00 am Wednesday, July, 1st, 2026 at the committal shelter. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Veterans Affairs in his name. Donations can be made at https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/.