Carla Whitley, 58, died peacefully in her sleep Sunday, February 5, 2017, at Living Center East, Cedar Rapids. Celebration of life: 10 a.m. Wednesday, February 8, 2017, at United Methodist Church, Mount Vernon, by Pastor Becky High and Joy Mitchell. Visitation: one hour prior to the service. Private burial: Evergreen Cemetery, Delhi, Iowa, at a later date. Arrangements by Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Mount Vernon.
Survivors include her mother, Marjorie of Mount Vernon; siblings, Mark (Heidi) Whitley of Lisbon, Ann (Mike) Wattleworth of Mount Vernon, and Judy Whitley of St. Joseph, Missouri; nieces and nephews, Mark (Sara) Whitley, Lindsay Kula, Holly (Justin) Myers, Stacy and John Wattleworth, Ashley (Brandon) Felice, David (Venice) and Keith Riggins, Hannah and Jonathon Whitley; aunts, Judy (Nile) Husmann and Elsa Staley; uncles David (Jan) Whittemore, Pete Maude, and Carl (Anna) Whittemore; special friend, John Eiacker; and many cousins, great-nieces and -nephews, and friends.
Carla Davine Whitley was born September 4, 1958, in Savanna, Illinois, to Wesley and Marjorie (Whittemore) Whitley. Despite many physical limitations, Carla had an active life. She lived at home with her family her first 30 years before going to New Horizons. She attended Monroe School, REM, worked at Options, sang and played bells in Sound Reach Choir, and enjoyed a busy social life with friends. She especially enjoyed Monday outings with her friend, John, and Sunday visits with her family. Carla will be missed by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her father; grandparents; and niece, Whitley Ann Wattleworth.
The family would like to thank New Horizons for the care given to Carla.
To the entire Whitley family,
We were so saddened to read of the news of Carla’s passing, yet embrace the knowledge that she is with Wes now.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this melancholy time. Healing memories and mercies for you all, especially Marj.
Love from Abbi Swanson and Paul Robinson
The world was a much brighter place while Carla was here. It was an honor to know her and she was a blessing to so many. My sincerest condolences to the family. The Whitleys treated me like family and Carla was so dear to me. Thank you Carla for letting me be your friend.
Carla, I only had the pleasure of meeting you a few times, but I will always remember the joy and love felt in your presence, the smile on your face, and the strength and determination to fight and overcome some of the toughest battles of life that most of us would have just given up on and the incredible achievements you made in your life,but most of all your love for money,chocolate shakes, shoes and shopping will always be what will bring a smile to my face when I think of you, maybe you already know this but I will share with you anyways you possess some of the same likes as the love of my life ( your sister judy). I wish I could have had the opportunity to get to know you more, but thankful for the time I did have with you . you will be greatly missed by all, but we all know your in a much better place . Happy birthday Carla for today you are truly starting a new life
Love Darrell
Carla my darling you were a gentle soul with so much laughter..your laugh always brighten my day..My Love you will be greatly missed..May God cover your your family at this difficult time.
As I would always say I Love you
So sorry to hear of Carla passing. She was a very sweet soul. I know my brother will miss his friend.
My sympathy to all Carla’s family and friends. She was a very smart and strong woman and touched so many lives. Sincerely, Jan Scharnberg
So sorry to hear of the passing of buddy Whit’s sister Carla. As the apple of everyone’s eyes growing up as a youngster I know Carla will be dearly missed. Our condolences go out to the family & friends at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Phil & Brenda Akers
Holt, Mo
Mark – I was so sorry to read about your sister’s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and your family at this time. Rhonda Purdy
Dear Whitley Family,
Praying that the Lord will walk beside you and uphold you during this difficult time of missing Carla and throughout the days ahead.
Thinking of you all—-Lisa (Clark) Davies
Marge and family,
I’m so sorry for your loss and I know this will leave a terrible void in your heart and lives. Please know you are in my thoughts at this difficult time.
With sympathy,
Annamae Baker
I am very sorry to hear that Carla passed away suddenly. May the happy memories of the time with her be a comfort to your hearts.
When I thought of Carla today, I couldn’t help but think of a quote by Michael Landon. “Remember me with love and laughter, for that is how I will remember you all. If you can only remember me with tears then don’t remember me at all.” I will always remember Carla with love and laughter. She brought so much joy to all our lives. Thank you sharing her with those of us at New Horizons.
So very sorry to learn about Carla’s passing! She was so very lucky to have been born into your family.