Minister Roosevelt Tony Whisby of 1309 East 8th Avenue, Cordele, Georgia died Friday, July 18, 2025, at his residence.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM in the chapel of the J. W. Williams Funeral Home in Cordele, Georgia.  The burial will follow at the Sunnyside Cemetery in Cordele, Georgia.

Everyone entering the funeral home for visitations or services is required to wear a mask and to practice social distancing.  A mask must be worn throughout the stay.  You must supply your own mask.

With deep love and profound respect, we celebrate the life and legacy of Roosevelt Whisby, affectionately known to many as Uncle Jack, Tony, Pimp, Playa, and Tony Alberto. Roosevelt was born on December 27, 1954, in Macon, Georgia, to Grace Faulkner and the late Mack Smith. He was raised with the nurturing love of his cherished grandmother, Blatz Murle Faulkner, and the guiding presence of his late grandfather, Grady Faulkner—both of whom played vital roles in shaping the man he would become.

Roosevelt was a proud 1974 graduate of Southwest High School. He went on to live a life full of purpose, passion, and spiritual dedication. A devoted student of the Bible, he was not only a minister but a man of profound faith who could recite  scripture word for word. His preaching inspired many, and his unwavering commitment to God's word left an indelible mark on those he encountered.

He served faithfully as a trusted friend, bodyguard, and personal chauffeur to Rev. Timothy Fleming of T. Fleming Ministries at Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia.  He was also a partner in ministry through his role as manager of God's Strength Records, where he stood as a pillar of faith and encouragement.

Roosevelt's heart, however, belonged to a woman he loved for over 40 years. In a beautiful testament to lasting love and devotion, he married his beloved wife of two years, Gail Wesley Whisby, and together they built a life rooted in friendship,   loyalty, and unconditional love.

Roosevelt's journey through life was anything but ordinary. He found success as a professional model, appearing in campaigns for Coca-Cola and other major companies, modeling under the name Tony Alberto. He moved in esteemed circles, forming connections with notable figures such as Esther Rolle and President Bill Clinton—a testament to his charisma, charm, and magnetic presence.

He had a generous heart and gave of himself to others through outreach ministry alongside Pastor Louise Little, always lending a hand, a word, or a prayer to those in need.

He was a beloved father to his son, Derrick Whisby, and his daughter-in-law, Elyse Whisby. He also cared for and supported his stepchildren, Lashard Wesley, Kita Williams, and Laroderick Williams, as his own. He leaves behind one precious grandson, Jaden Spratlin.

Roosevelt's siblings meant the world to him. He is survived by his loving sisters Linda Burton and Brenda Burton, and his brother Rubin Burton. He also cherished his relationship with his nieces and nephews, Sheika Burton, Yolanda Rainey, Meltarrian Stephens, Darrious Watson, Brodney Watson, Travon   Burton, Paul Hall Jr., Erica Napier, Toccara King, Precious Bledsoe, and Courtney Burton.

He was preceded in death by his beloved sister and best friend Angela Burton, his brother Kenny Lundy, his nephew, Anthony King, Jr., and his childhood friends Roland Bentley and Russell Latimore.

Those who knew him know that Roosevelt had a way of lighting up any room. He was the life of the party, the source of wisdom, the heart of the family. He shared laughter and love with a host of nieces and nephews, who will forever remember his jokes, advice, and unwavering presence in their lives.

His memory will be cherished by countless friends, extended family, church members, and all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. To know Roosevelt was to be blessed by his light.