William “Eddie” Whitley, 78, passed away on February 15, 2026. He was born on March 26, 1947, in Monroe, North Carolina, to the late Virgil Sherill Whitley and Mary York Whitley.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Covenant Baptist Church, 2706 Secrest Shortcut Road, Monroe, NC 28110. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 1:00 p.m. until 2:15 p.m.

Eddie was a proud U.S. Army Veteran who served in the Vietnam War. He was a dedicated member of the American Legion Post 208 in Waxhaw, North Carolina, and made frequent visits to the Veteran Coffee House—where he was honored at the end of 2025 with a perfect attendance award for never missing a trip. Eddie was also known for his strong work ethic. He worked for Buck Whitley Construction for more than 24 years, and even after long days, he often kept multiple small jobs at a time simply because he loved to work.

Eddie had a gentle heart, and he found joy in caring for living things—especially animals and plants. He loved being around animals, and he took pride in tending to plants and helping things grow. Those who knew him best will remember the steady patience and quiet kindness he showed, whether he was lending a hand to someone in need or caring for the world around him.

Above all else, Eddie was a man of faith who loved his family deeply. He was a devoted member of Covenant Baptist Church and attended faithfully. Fondly known as “Pappy,” he took a genuine interest in the lives of his children—whether through a simple after-work conversation or a relaxed weekend visit. He devoted his life to his beloved wife, Sandra, and cherished every moment they shared. Eddie and Sandra could often be found caring for the elders in their community together. Eddie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Eddie was preceded in death by his brothers, James Sherill Whitley, Lloyd Eugene Whitley, and Roy Lane Whitley; and his great-grandson, Colten Baucom.

Eddie is survived by his wife, Sandra Baucom Whitley; sons, William Eric Whitley (Farideh Sehat) and Brian Scott Whitley (Laura); daughter, Gloria Whitley Keziah; and sisters, Brenda Whitley Hamilton and Jane Whitley Baucom. Seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren also survive him.

Holland Funeral Service is serving the Whitley Family.