James Edward Whaley Jr.

   James Edward Whaley, Jr. of Willard, NC passed from his earthly life on the early morning of Thursday, August 12, 2021 while at Pender Memorial Hospital in Burgaw, NC.  Born on August 13, 1950, he is the son of the late James Edward Whaley, Sr. and Tiffine Hardison Whaley.  Also preceding him in death is his wife—Allan Kaye Smith Whaley.

   Left to cherish his memory are his children—Tara Whaley Lehmann and husband Chris of Jacksonville (NC), Ginger Hood Blackmon and husband Bryan of Willard, Gregory James Whaley and friend Nancy of Willard, and Penny Jane Hood of Elizabethtown; grandchildren—Ian, Caleb, Joshua, Anna, Hunter, and Michael; great granddaughter—Jessie; siblings—Carrie Hedgepeth and husband Robert of Penderlea, Mary Bond and husband Lynwood of Penderlea, Joann Nichols of Kinston, Bettie Lee Powers and husband Tim of Fayetteville, and Vincent Whaley of Penderlea.

   Mr. Whaley spent a greater part of his career in driving trucks.  If there was ever a person who “did not know a stranger”, it is James Whaley.  He was always one to acknowledge everyone around him, no matter where he was, and would start up a conversation with others.  He thoroughly enjoyed life and loved his family more than anything else on earth—especially the grandchildren and great granddaughter who also loved him dearly.

A memorial service will be set for a later date.  Padgett Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the Whaley family.   

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