Joanne Whatley

Mrs. Joanne Whatley, age 79, of Winston, GA passed away Thursday, January 22, 2015. She was born January 11, 1936 in Detroit, MI. Mrs. Whatley retired from Ocala Star Banner with over a decade of service. She lived in Ocala, Florida for over 25 years and was a member of the Elks Club while living in Ocala. She moved to Winston, GA in November 2009 to be near her family. Mrs. Whatley loved spending time with her grandkids; going to the mall; playing Bingo and going to the movies. She went to church faithfully.

Mrs. Whatley was preceded in death by her husband, Duane Whatley, Sr.; grandson, Michael Anthony Budwash; her parents, Frank and Nanny Goodson Firestine; brothers, Frank Firestine, Eddie Firestine and David Firestine; sisters, Betty Ortisi and Agnes Gregg.

She is survived by a son, Duane Whatley and wife Shauna; daughter, Debbie Budwash and husband David; brother, Robert Firestine; sisters, Mary Reiterman and Linda Curtis; grandchildren, Lisa M. Reams and husband John; Cody J. Budwash, Amber C. Budwash, Amber L. McCandless and husband Frank, Kathy J. Whatley and Billy M. Tyler; five great-grandchildren; and her beloved pets, Tinker Bell the family Yorkie and Foxy, the rescue Pomeranian.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, January 27, 2015 from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM. The funeral service will follow at 5:00 PM in the Rosehaven Chapel with Father Cong Nguyen officiating. There will be a private family graveside service at a later date.

Those who wish to express condolences or share a special memory may do so online at www.whitleygarner.com

Arrangements by: Whitley-Garner at Rosehaven Funeral Home, Douglasville, GA 30134, 770-942-4246