Thomas Earl Whitley, age 82, passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield. He was born on October 26, 1941, to the late Coats and Mable Whitley. Thomas lived in Johnston County his whole life.

Thomas was a mechanic for many years and retired from North Carolina State DOT. He served in the US Army and was stationed in Germany. He served as a volunteer firefighter for Thanksgiving Fire Department for over 40 years.

A graveside funeral service will be held in the Branch Chapel Church Cemetery on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive visitors following the service.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Brenda Sullivan Whitley; son, David Whitley and wife Heather of Kenly; daughter, Pamela Whitley Hendley and husband Jason of Selma; brother, Ray Whitley of Cary; sister, Elaine Guy of Zebulon; and five grandchildren: Bryce Whitley, Garrett Whitley, Tanner Whitley, Sarah Jenkins, Elizabeth Jenkins; two step-granddaughters, Tori Thompson and Macy Hendley; one step-great-grandchild, Owen Thompson.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Branch Chapel Church, 7438 US Hwy 96 North, Selma, NC 27576.