Mary Penley Whitaker

Mary Penley Whitaker passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Givens Highland Farms, Black Mountain, NC.

Mary was a native of Buncombe County and the daughter of the late C.A. Penley and Hattie Creasman Penley. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 78 years, Edwin W. Whitaker; her grandson, Brian G. Whitaker; sisters, Pearl Penley Morrison and Bonnie Penley Loper; and brothers, Hugh Penley and Johnny Penley.

Mary is survived by her son, Michael Whitaker and wife April, of Lexington, NC; and grandson, Chuck Whitaker, of Salisbury, NC.

Mary was a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Asheville where she worked with the preschool children’s program and formed some of her most fond memories. Mary and Ed were founding members of Ecclesia Baptist Church, in Fairview, NC. The love and support of Ecclesia along with the exceptional care and love afforded by friends and staff at Givens Highland Farms sustained Mary and kept her strong.

The graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at Green Hills Cemetery. Those who wish to pay their respects prior to the service may stop by the funeral home all day Tuesday and anytime before 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday.