In Loving Memory of Roberta Lee Yanosh Whitaker March 10, 1944 – September 18, 2026 Roberta Lee Yanosh Whitaker, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2026, surrounded by the family.

Her story began with hardship but became a testament to the power of love, resilience, and family. As a young child, Roberta spent six years in foster care after being placed in a Catholic orphanage in Indianapolis. At the age of nine, her life changed forever when Andrew and Ina Yanosh welcomed her into their home and hearts. Having longed for a family of her own, Roberta never took love, friendship, or belonging for granted. Those early experiences shaped the compassionate, grateful, and fiercely devoted woman she became.

At the age of thirteen, Roberta met a young man named Tommy Whitaker. What began as a teenage romance blossomed into a love story that would span seven decades. Tom was the love of her life, and on October 5, 1963, they were married. Together they built a home filled with laughter, loyalty, and unconditional love. Because of her childhood experiences, family was everything to Roberta. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother to Scott, Daniel, and Sandra, and a proud grandmother to Joey, Natalie, Kevin, and Mia. Whether attending (never missing) school events, nursing a sick child (or husband), celebrating achievements, or simply gathering around the dinner table, she made sure her family knew they were deeply loved.

Roberta lived a life of service, kindness, and generosity. She dedicated countless hours to St. Philip Neri Catholic Church and gave freely of her time to organizations and causes that helped others. She loved gardening, teaching others to garden, and brightening the lives of residents at local senior centers. She was known for her warm smile, her sense of humor, generous spirit, boundless energy, and her delicious lasagna, ham, and flank steak! She adored Elvis Presley, was a fierce Democrat, took pride in her beautiful yard, and touched countless lives through her kindness and charm.

Roberta was affectionately called Bobbie, Momma Whit, Bo-Berta, or Bert. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through her family, friends, and the faith community she nurtured throughout her life. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that her example of love, strength, and spirit will remain with us always.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 10, at 9 a.m. at St Philip Neri Catholic Church in Fort Mill, SC. Her service will also be live streamed via St Philip Neri’s website St Philip Neri – Fort Mill, SC. Bobbie requests that donations be made to her beloved church in her name as remembrance. St Philip Neri – Fort Mill, SC.