Laura D Whatley

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our sister, Laura Diane Whatley, on Thursday morning, March 13, 2025 . She had a long and tenuous battle with cancer which she fought to the very last with every fiber of her being. We had all hoped for a bit longer to spend with her, but her sudden deterioration took that opportunity away. While this was expected at some time in the future, we did not anticipate it being so rapid and sudden.

Laura was born in Deland, Florida, on July 2, 1964. She was the first born and the oldest of three. She and her family traveled the world together; from Florida to places like Hawai'i, Virginia, California, and Japan. The impact Japan had on her was profound, as was her time in Hawai'i. These two places became an indelible part of her identity; from decorations and keepsakes to her pets' names, you would find hints of her memories everywhere. She maintained close contact with friends from Zama High School in Japan and Aiea High School in Hawai'i and was so happy she stayed in touch with them.

Not having children of her own, Laura later took on the role of a foster parent, leaving an impression on many children and their families. She kept in touch with many of them after they moved on, and I hope that the memory of her lives on in them. This was a period of her life that she spoke of with pride, and she had every right to. Not only was she passionate about the children she took in, Laura was also an avid animal lover. Her love of big cats is everywhere you turn. Her love of little cats, as well as her dogs, was known to everyone. Along with her sister, Cheryl, these were her comfort in her last days, and we are glad she was with them until the end.

Laura leaves behind so many different memories with so many different people. We know each of you who reads this will have something that sticks in your mind when you remember her. I do hope you will share this with others. When you think about her, remember that she was a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a mother to many, and a friend. She is survived by her sister and brother, Cheryl and Wade, her many nieces and nephews (Christina, Jessica, Christoper, Brandon, Taylor, Evan, and Mika), as well as her many pets, and even more friends that she thought of as family. Above all else, she believed there was something more waiting for us when we pass. We are certain that she is with her Mom and Dad right now sharing hugs and having a laugh.

We do not as of yet have a memorial service planned, but we will notify everyone as soon we know. As much as Laura loved flowers,we are sure she would love to have something more meaningful left in her name, so if you would like to leave something in her memory, please go to Favor House and make a donation in her name.

https://www.favorhouse.org/donate