Herman Owen Whitley

Owen was born in Charleston, WV on July 15, 1937 to parents who preceded him in death, Violet Tate Whitley and Charles Owen Whitley.

Owen has one sister, Joyce Saffels, husband James Saffels. Owen loved spending time on his grandmother's farm in Tennessee. He would go and spend every summer with his beloved grandmother. When Owen graduated from high school, he joined the Air Force and was stationed in France. He loved telling stories from his time there. When he returned, he settled into a lifelong career of truck driving and was a member of the local teamsters union.

Owen had 2 children, Lisa Wilkinson, husband Todd Wilkinson, and Mark Whitley, all of Charlotte, NC who he loved very much. He enjoyed vacationing at the beach and camping. Owen had 2 grandchildren, Katie Wilkinson Nixon, husband Jonathan Nixon, and Chad Wilkinson. He had 1 great granddaughter, Caroline Whitley Nixon. His kids were the loves of his life. "Papaw" was a kid at heart and kids were just drawn to him.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 30 years, Sadie Mae Whitley. They lived together in Saint Albans, WV. They enjoyed camping, traveling and dancing together at Hansford Senior Center.

Owen moved to Charlotte 2 and 1/2 years ago. In just a short time here, he made some great friends. He and his girlfriend, Kathy Sizemore shared some special memories. His friends at Long Cove Marina will remember his presence long after he is gone.

Owen could always bring a smile to your face. He was full of life and lived life fully every day. He never met a stranger. He will surely be missed by so many.

Visitation will be held at the McEwen-Pineville Chapel on Friday, January 16th at 12:00p.m. with his funeral service immediately following at 1:00p.m. He will be buried at Crown Memorial Park.

Condolences to the family may be offered at www.mcewenpinevillechapel.com.