Janet P. Whatley

1936-2022

Janet Patterson Whatley (Jan) passed away quietly on January 31, 2022. Jan was born on March 12, 1936, the daughter of Quillen Talley Patterson and Jessie Mae Patterson of Dothan, AL. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, James H. Whatley, Sr. She leaves behind her children Marjorie Whatley Kane and Jim, Linda Whatley Thomas and Russell, James H. Whatley, Jr. and Faith, and Karen Whatley Shinnick and Scott. Each of her precious grandchildren hold a special place in her heart. Jessica Kane Murphy and John, Sara Kane Bergan and Brad, Molly Kane Devine and Johnnie, Abigail Kane Lim and Eric, Caleb Kane and Meghan, Megan Thomas Harris and Adam, Whitney Thomas Bartlett and Casey, Hugh Whatley and Milan, Grace Whatley Comer and Matt, Kennedy Troyano, Mitchell Shinnick and Wells Shinnick. Her great grandchildren were each considered an extra special blessing. Thomas, Lucy, Isaac and Max Murphy, Caroline, Rosalie and Bradley Bergan, Jack Devine, Teddy Kane, Emma and Quint Harris, Sawyer and Rhett Bartlett, Jameson Whatley, and Hank and Clyde Comer. She is also survived by her sister Beryl P. Holland and Mason. Jan was preceded in death by her mother and father and her sisters Beverly P. Harvey and Mary Virginia Beauchamp and brother Charles Patterson. Her cherished grandson, Joseph Kane, greeted her at heaven’s gate.

Jan graduated from Teachers College in Troy, AL in 1957. Jan married the love of her life, Jim Whatley in December 1957.They moved to Pensacola in 1959. There they started their family and enjoyed being a part of the community of Escambia County Teachers and Administrators. Janet taught school at Myrtle Grove Elementary, where every child wanted to be in Mrs. Whatley’s 3rd grade class, Room 13. There they learned academics, but mostly they learned how to live a good life. She had immeasurable impact on countless young people.

In 1961 Jan and Jim joined Myrtle Grove Baptist Church, bringing along their children in order to show them the importance of God in their lives. Her faith was manifested by her love of scripture. Jan and Jim did many Bible studies at home together. Their Sunday school classes were a very important part of their lives.

Retirement in 1995 brought adventure for Jan and Jim. They were able to take off in their motorhome to see their country and beyond. Many days were also spent with their growing family. Pancake Breakfasts in the motorhome were a special treat enjoyed by grandchildren.

After many adventures, Jim became ill and she remained his constant companion and now caregiver as well. Her loving gentle care for him was an example to all.

After his death in 2016, she continued to enjoy her family. She continued to study scripture. She enjoyed her special buddy Pistol Pete the pup.

Mom knew pain and loss but, she treasured everyday life. Scripture, nature, craft shows, her children and her grandchildren, these were her loves. We are feeling loss; but we have hope because of His promise that she taught us…Surely goodness and Mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever.

A visitation for Janet P. Whatley will be held Saturday, February 12, 2022 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home, 1985 West Nine Mile Road, Pensacola, FL 32534. Following the visitation will be a graveside service at 1:00PM at Pensacola Memorial Gardens, 7433 Pine Forest Road, Pensacola, FL 32526.

Janet P. Whatley will be laid to rest in Pensacola Memorial Gardens.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.EasternGateMemorial.com for the Whatley family.