He was born on November 14, 1931, in New York City, NY to Chester and Elsie Whitley (now deceased). He was raised in New York but, later moved to Englewood, N.J. where he went to St. Cecelia H.S. Skee was the “baby boy”. His sisters Hermoine and Senora were his life! He enlisted into the service in 1950 and joined the 82nd Airborne Division Paratroopers. He was stationed at Ft. Dix, and then sent to combat where he was wounded. Skee was awarded “The Purple Heart and Bronze Star”. When he was discharged from the service he went to work with his dad at the “Whitey Press” in Manhattan.
Chet found his soulmate and partner of 65 years, when he married Judy in 1953. They moved to Teaneck, N.J., where they raised their three children, Tanya Peay, Gina Tucker and Chester Whitley. He was a very hard working man who loved his wife and children unconditionally and provided for them very well. He leaves behind five grandchildren, Tyisha Gomez, Chet Whitley, Trey Whitley, Cobie Whitley, Starlett Singleton, and six great grandchildren, his nephews Andrew Capdeville, Douglas Capdeville, and Stephen Wood. His nieces Linda Goldman and Roxanne Capdeville, and A host of in-laws, Lois Bonaparte (Deceased), Scott Bonaparte, Tirza Bonaparte, Robin Whitley, Jim Tucker, Randy Graves, Gabriella Graves, Antoinette Baker, and Sydney Baker. He was energized by people and was very outgoing. Chet was someone who looked for future possibilities, like moving to Las Vegas after retirement. He was one to make decisions based on his feelings.
He was an avid poker player, and an excellent pinochle player. Chet loved deep sea fishing, traveling cross country, and flying to the Caribbean to see his family.
Skee will always be in our hearts. Gone, but never forgotten!
