Shirley Jean Whateley

Shirley Jean Whateley, 86, of Lecanto, Florida, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 at her home. A native of Anna, Illinois, she was born June 1, 1938 to William and Lillian (Spears) McClure, one of three children. Shirley moved to Lecanto in 1972 from St. Petersburg, Florida and her working life was highlighted by serving as the administrator of the former Gator Industries of Lecanto, a family owned and operated metal fabrication company. A Baptist by faith, Shirley was an active and devoted member and choir director for Suncoast Baptist Church in Homosassa, as well as an active and faithful member of Clearview Baptist Church in St. Petersburg, when she was living there. Upon her retirement here in Citrus County, Shirley became a volunteer at HPH Hospice in Lecanto, as well as serving as one of their grief counselors. As a loving mother and grandmother, Shirley’s family was at the center of her universe. Her best days would be when she was surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and always putting them before herself. She enjoyed crafting and especially loved visiting craft shows, and liked going out to eat, especially to Applebee’s. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Whateley was preceded in death by her husband, William E. Whateley, on August 20, 2010; a daughter, Pam Hall, on February 5, 2005, and one sister. Shirley is survived by children Debbie Browning (Ed), Terry Ferguson (Wayne), Patty Whateley (Jim Morzowski) and Bill Whateley (Michelle Robles); one sister; eleven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. Friends will be received at Macrini-Wilder Funeral Home in Homosassa on Friday, Dec. 13th from 10:30 to 11:00 AM, where a Celebration of Life will commence at 11:00 AM with Pastor David O’Hara officiating. Private interment will follow at Stage Stand Cemetery in Homosassa Springs. Macrini-Wilder Funeral Home, Homosassa, Florida.