Tommie Joyce Whatley, born on December 23, 1937, to Lawless and Bernice Jones Hebert, peacefully departed this world on February 19, 2024, at Village Creek Nursing Home in Lumberton, Texas. Tommie's life was a tapestry woven with love, resilience, and an indomitable spirit.
Tommie's journey through life included a lasting companionship with her beloved husband, Douglas Dwain Whatley. They married in 1960 and they shared a lifetime of love and laughter until Douglas's passing.
Tommie was a vivacious woman with a passion for sports, particularly her favorite teams—the Houston Astros, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Oklahoma Sooners. Whether they were winning or facing tough competition, Tommie cheered with unwavering enthusiasm. Her love for games extended to arcade games and scratcher tickets, adding a playful touch to her birthdays. She was also an avid bowler and was part a league for many years.
Tommie's faith played a significant role in her life, and she actively participated in the SETX Church community. She had a heart for family and was a dedicated supporter of youth sports. Known as Granny Whatley, she left an indelible mark on the lives she touched.
A woman of strength and resilience, Tommie was not one to stay silent. Her boisterous nature was accompanied by a genuine warmth, and she was always there to support and have your back. Tommie found solace in outdoor activities, indulging in her love for fishing, gardening, and mowing with gusto.
Tommie was preceded in death by her parents, Lawless and Bernice Hebert, her husband Douglas Whatley, her son Chuck Whatley, and her brothers Bobby Bruce and Henry Hebert. She is survived by her loving daughter Kathy Burkhalter and husband Kenny of Lumberton, TX, her son Darrell Whatley and wife Debra of Lumberton, TX, her brother Mike Hebert of Oklahoma, and a legacy of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandchild.
Services to honor Tommie's life will be held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home in Beaumont, TX. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, February 22, 2024, from 5-8 pm, with a Celebration of Life on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 2 pm. Tommie will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park following the ceremony.
In the tapestry of our lives, Tommie Joyce Whatley's thread will forever be woven with love, laughter, and cherished memories. May she rest in eternal peace.
