Tillie Whatley, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the age of 84, at a local hospital in Temple, Texas. Private services will be held in her honor at Bellwood Memorial Park.
Born on Christmas Eve in 1940, in Holland, Texas, Tillie was the daughter of Joe and Louise Jarolik. She grew up in a loving household in Ratibor, Texas. Tillie later settled in Temple, where she would spend the majority of her years creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
On January 25, 1958, she married the love of her life, Mack Thornton Whatley, in Rogers, Texas. Together, they managed their rental properties for many years, working side by side and building a legacy rooted in hard work and trust. One of Tillie’s greatest joys was traveling the country with Mack, discovering new places together and creating cherished memories along the way.
Tillie found great peace and pride in gardening, tending to her vibrant flower beds with loving care. She had a special gift for making everything she touched flourish. Above all, she was a devoted family woman. Her heart overflowed with love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her cherished husband, Mack; two brothers Joe and Johnny; three sisters Esther, Margie, Georgie and her beloved great grandson, Austin.
Tillie leaves behind a legacy of love in the hearts of her family; two daughters, Margaret Bonner and husband Tommy of Temple, and Sandra Wilde and husband Ralph of Temple; her sister, Mary Davis of Temple; a brother, Frankie Jarolik of Belton; her grandchildren, Travis Bonner of Austin, Lindsey McMellon and husband Liam of Hitchin, United Kingdom, Brittani Wilde of Fort Worth, and Amanda Chaney and husband Daniel of Temple; her treasured great-grandchildren, Evi Bonner, Hayden Chaney, James Chaney, and Levi McMellon.
A time of visitation and remembrance will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home.
Tillie will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.
