Opal Irene Whitehair, 93 of Abilene passed away Monday, July 15, 2019 at Village Manor. She was born January 12, 1926 in Giltner, Nebraska the daughter of Harry Franklin and Lillie Mae (Gannon) Root.

She moved to Enterprise when she was an infant.

She attended the local schools in Enterprise and graduated in 1944.

Following graduation Opal was working at Ersham’s in Enterprise when she was introduced to her future husband, John R. Whitehair.

Opal and John were united in marriage August 18, 1947 in Abilene.

Opal worked with John on the family farm east of Abilene until his death June 12, 1981.

She also worked as the Clerk of the District Court of Dickinson Count, retiring in 1991. She was a member of the Lady’s of St. Andrew Catholic Church, volunteered with the 4-H club and softball. She enjoyed golfing and gardening.

Opal is survived by her three daughters: Suzanne Crain (Dennis) of Overland Park, Kansas; Jean Wilson (Dan) of Abilene; Judy Hammond of Tulsa, Oklahoma. One son: Terry Whitehair (Gale) of Abilene. Fourteen grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband John, sister, Lurye Emig and two brothers, Norman and Keith Root.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 A.M., Thursday, July 18, 2019 at St. Andrew Catholic Church with Fr. Don Zimmerman as celebrant. Burial will follow at Mt. St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Abilene. Rosary will be recited at 6:00 P.M., Wednesday, July 17 at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home. Family will receive friends following. The family suggests memorials be given to St. Andrew Catholic Church or Donor’s personal choice. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.