Alan Neil Whitney, lovingly known as Uncle Al "big m'gumba", passed away on January 16, 2026, at the ripe age of 70.

Born on July 20, 1955, to Donna and Harry Whitney, Alan lived a life full of adventure, spontaneous celebration, and the 'high life' when he could. He was born to an Airforce father and Irish descent mother who grew up living in many wonderful places around the world. He served in the Army at age 18 and is a post Korean war era veteran who was honorably discharged. His favorite country he lived in/visited during this time was Korea and Germany. He was a remarkable marksman, an intelligent man, and a plantologist who was one of two men in TX to pass an all 50 statewide chemical test for pesticides and plant medicine. He was a stubborn man who had a belly full of laughter, a drink to share, and always ready for a dubbie. He would give the shirt off his back for anyone and buy shoes for a neighbor's child in need without thinking twice because he was a simple man who believed money/materialistic items
were meaningless unless shared.

He was a proud uncle who spent his retirement helping his niece, Angela, raise her youngest child from 7 months old til the wonderful age of 10. He was supportive, loving, and shares countless memories with those he held dear to his heart. He was also blunt, spoke his mind, and had his own opinions of the world, some good and some negative, but he was always open for debate, facts, and change of heart conversations. He welcomed all earthly knowledge, loved to read books, and shared his love of sci-fi, horror, and mystery with his nieces. Star Trek fan, lover of instrumental music, hand painted models, and his spoiled fat cat Luna about sums him up well.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Donna Whitney; father, Harry Whitney; brother, David Whitney; and nephew, Mathew Whitney; as well as countless soldiers he served with and many long gone before him friends he wished he could see again.

He is survived by his brothers, Danny and Robert Whitney; sister, Joanna Yates; nieces, Angela, Heather, "middle M'gumba" Skyler, and "lil m'gumba" Taylin Whitney, Mellisa and Mo Yates; nephew, Michael Whitney; along with countless friends who will miss him deeply.

A celebration of his life will take place during the spreading of his ashes, date soon to be posted on his niece's social media. His memory will live on through the love he gave and the lives he shaped.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.