Kristine Beth Whitley, 70, of Hillsboro,died on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, at 1:16 p.m., surrounded by her loving family at the Hillsboro Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 4, from 10 to 11 a.m. and a service at 11 a.m. to follow at Bass Patton Dean Funeral Home in Hillsboro. The Rev. Brian Robison, pastor of St. Mark Lutheran Church in Belleville, will officiate. A luncheon will be provided at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church after the service.
Mrs. Whitley was born on July 23, 1954, in Corpus Christi, TX, to Herman and Janelle (Spath) Neunaber. She married the love of her life, Larry Whitley, on Nov. 19, 1977, in Belleville. She dedicated her career to education, serving as a respected math teacher at Hillsboro High School and Junior High until her retirement in 2010. Her unwavering commitment to her students and her passion for teaching left an indelible mark on the community.
A devoted member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hillsboro, Mrs. Whitley found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She spent her free time gardening and quilting; and after retiring, she embraced the outdoors with her husband, often hunting, fishing and foraging for mushrooms. Mrs. Whitley cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, teaching them to ride bikes, taking them on trips to the public library and softly singing ‘You Are My Sunshine’ as they drifted off to sleep in her arms.
Mrs. Whitley was known for her kindness, selflessness and boundless love for those around her. She touched the lives of everyone she met with her gentle spirit and generous heart. Her legacy of compassion and warmth will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Mrs. Whitley is survived by her beloved husband, Larry Whitley of Hillsboro; two children, Kristy (Bryan) Parr of Tolono and Aaron Whitley of New Holland; three grandchildren, Brady Parr, Larissa Parr and Olivia Whitley; sisters, Kathy (Rex) Rothgangel of Belleville and Kim Ott of Belleville; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Condolences may be left online at www.basspattondeanfh.com.
