June 10, 2024, 89, Goldsboro —

In the early morning hours of June 10, 2024, Wilbur Kenneth “Ken” Whaley, 89, finished his race and passed away peacefully surrounded by his family.

Ken was born on April 22, 1935, to the late Wilbur Lloyd Whaley and Fannie Mae (Collier) Whaley.  After growing up on the farm, he enlisted in the US Air Force where he served honorably for 20 years and retired as a Technical Sergeant. He was stationed in the Philippines during the Vietnam War and later served in Korea.  After an honorable discharge, he returned to North Carolina and began careers in farming, landscaping, and trucking. Ken was an excellent musician and played guitar and bass with various gospel singing groups and churches throughout his life. Ken was a member at Ray of Hope PFWB Church and also attended The First Pentecostal Holiness Church in Goldsboro.  He shared his compassion, love for life, and his faith in Christ with anyone in need. 

Ken is survived by the love of his life, Edna Batten Whaley, whom he married in 1957. He is also survived by his one son, Gary Whaley, his wife Lisa, and granddaughter, Lindsey Whaley. In addition, he was survived by his two special nieces, Dr. Amy Batten-Bryan, and husband, Mark Bryan and Lori Batten. He is also survived by his sister, Judy George, and husband, Dave. 

Ken was preceded in death by his siblings,  Vonnie (Blue) Whaley, George (Toppie) Whaley, and Jencie Howell.  Ken was loved by his family and many friends. 

A service to celebrate Ken’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 11 am. in the chapel of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro. The family will receive friends before the service from 10 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment with full military honors will follow at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery. 

Professional services are entrusted to Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.