Mary L Whiteley

Mary L. Whiteley, born Mary Lou Elizabeth Wise, in Cayce, South Carolina, passed away on April 16, 2020, at Southern Hospital of Culver City, California, after an extended illness. Mary was proceeded in passing by her late husband, Earl Ray Whiteley, her brother, Jack D. Wise, and her sisters, Margaret Dillihay and Joyce Brachman. Mary is survived by her sister, Norma Marsh and by her nieces, Beverly Caruthers, Stephanie Marsh of Hudson, Florida and Gloria Novatsky of Crystal River, Florida.

Mary was the Director of Marketing Administration and Finance at 20th Century Fox Film from 1972 to 1992. Mary was also a member of WOMPI, Women of the Motion Picture Industry, and served as Industry Service Chairperson and Secretary and Correspondence Secretary. Mary also was a member of the Brentwood-Bel Air Women’s Club where she served as Treasurer, Parliamentarian, Recording Secretary, and Co-President. Mary was also a member of the Playa Del Rey Women’s Club. Mary loved travel and photography.

In 1999, Mary took a trip to China and she and Ray travelled extensively throughout their lives together.

Mary was such a special person. Although her health was difficult for many years, Mary always had a positive attitude. No matter how she was feeling, whenever you spoke to her, you could not help but be lifted up by her love of life, the gaiety always in her voice and her concern for you rather than for herself. Mary’s spirit will live on in the many lives of those she touched. She will be sorely missed.

Mary has asked that any memorials in her name be sent to the American Cancer Society.