Loretta Belle Whatley

Loretta was born in Lake City, Arkansas, on June 24, 1946, to Joe and Inez Jacobs and later moved to Houston, Texas.

Loretta attended Milby High School. She obtained her Licensed Vocational Nurse 'LVN' degree from San Jacinto College in 1986. She worked as an LVN and a Clinical Liaison/Business Development Specialist.

Loretta met the love of her life, Robert Whatley, in 1992. They exchanged vows on February 5, 1994, in Pasadena, TX. They united their families, built a wonderful life together and created cherished memories with many loved ones.

In 2010, Loretta retired and dedicated her time to tending to their home, planting gardens, spending time with grandchildren, creating beautiful artwork, and caring for others.

She loved being a devoted wife and caring mother, but her favorite role was “Nana”. She treasured time with her grandchildren and loved them immensely.

Loretta was a member of South Main Baptist Church, actively involved in her Sunday School Class, Oasis of Faith.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Inez Jacobs; brother, Joe Jacobs Jr.; and grandson, Michael Villareal Whatley.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Whatley; sons Terry Lewis, James Lewis, Chris (Vickie) Whatley, William (Brandi) Whatley, David (Valerie) Whatley; daughter, Jennifer Lewis; grandchildren Brittny (Brett) Brymer, Brandon (Molly) Whatley, Brook Whatley, Bailey Whatley, Conner Lewis, Faith Villareal Whatley, Grace Villareal Whatley, Landon King, Mason Whatley; great-grandchildren Vera Whatley, Serene Brymer; extended grandsons Tyler Wilson, Austin Wilson.

To know Loretta was to know love. Her sweet spirit and joyful heart were apparent to everyone. She never met a stranger and selflessly gave of herself to others. We couldn’t have hoped for a better wife, mom, nana, aunt, cousin, and friend; she was truly incomparable. Though we will miss her deeply, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who love her.

Memorial services are Sunday, November 12, 2023, at Forest Park Lawndale. Visitation will begin at 1:00pm, Service at 2:00pm, followed by a committal service at Forest Park Lawndale.