Samuel Whatley, Jr.

Mr. Samuel L. Whatley, Jr., a beloved family man, began his earthly journey on June 24, 1943, to the union of Samuel L. Whatley, Sr. and Williett Christopher Whatley in Brutonville, Alabama. He received his formal education in the Anniston City School System and where he graduated from Cobb Avenue High School with the class of 1963. After high school, he joined the United Stated Army and proudly fought for his country in the Vietnam War. Samuel started his spiritual journey at a young age and accepted Christ as his personal Savior. He united with Mount Calvary Baptist Church where he was baptized. His unwavering faith would later lead him to unite with First Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorage of Rev. Smitherman. He was a dedicated and faithful member of First Missionary until his health began to fail. Allowing God to lead him, Samuel served as a deacon for 55 years and was recognized as the oldest living deacon of the church. His commitment to his beliefs was surpassed only by his love and devotion to his family. His love for the Lord was evident in everything he did, and his faith inspired all who were lucky enough to know him. Sam's passion for life extended beyond the church; he had a green thumb that brought beauty to his flower garden, where he spent countless hours nurturing his favorite blooms. Sam enjoyed cooking, especially his famous blueberry crunch that everyone raved about. He was a proud member of the American Legion and enjoyed cheering on the Auburn Tigers football team. He also created lifelong memories on hunting trips or just sitting on the banks casting his fishing rod. In his leisure time, with a twinkle in his eye and a competitive spirit, he could be found playing bid whist or reliving his days of playing baseball and tennis. On December 18, 1970, Sam married his soulmate and the love of his life, Rosa Richey Whatley. This union created an abundance of love that they shared with their three sons and their grandchildren. On January 9, 2025, at the age of 81, Samuel L. Whatley, Jr. departed this walk of life and entered eternal rest at his residence surrounded by loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents Samuel L. Whatley, Sr. and Williett Christopher Whatley; brother, Billy L. Whatley; sisters, Willie Matthews and Nancy M. Adams; Aunts, Delcena (Richard) Gordon and Carrie Green; and nieces, Angela Lucas and Latangela Johnson. He leaves to cherish his loving memories, a devoted wife, Rosa Whatley, sons, Brian V. (Ericka) Whatley, Adrian D. Whatley, and Deitrich (Kristy) Whatley; grandchildren, Jaquarius (Jasmine) Whatley, Jaleel (Tamm'ra) Whatley, Chelonde Whatley, Jasmine D. Whatley, Brian V. Whatley, Jr., and Adroanna Whatley; nieces, Anita McNutt and Sawanna Whatley; nephews, Terrell (Patricia) Adams, Steadrick (Wanda) Whatley, Sean Matthews, and Corey (Tanetra) Adams; cousins, Corine Christopher and Ruth Powell; and a host of other family members and friends. Though we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well-lived-one filled with love, laughter, and above all, a profound faith that inspired so many. Samuel Whatley Jr. will be deeply missed but forever remembered in our hearts.

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Samuel Whatley, Jr.

June 24, 1943 - January 9, 2025