Mary Whitis

Mary Whitis

Age 69 of Herscher and formerly of Morris, passed away Monday evening, April 16, 2018 at her home.

Born February 17, 1949 in Wyatt, Missouri, Mary Ann was a daughter of Willie and Pearlie (Crawford) Abernatha. She was raised in Kentucky and lived with her family in Morris for many years before moving to Herscher.

Mary enjoyed gardening and flowers, as well as singing and writing poetry. She was a wonderful cook and in past years took pleasure in fishing. Family was of utmost importance to Mary, and she cherished time spent with her grandchildren.

Survivors include her three children: Richard (Peggy) Whitis of Springfield, Missouri, Stephen (Diana) Whitis of Blodgett, Missouri and Theresa Fulkerson of Herscher; her loving companion of more than 30 years, Wayne West; (13) grandchildren: Richie Whitis, David Whitis, Stephanie Allen, Kevin Whitis, Amy Polander, Michael Pfaff, Lisa Rullo, Cathy Webb, Jeffery Whitis, Ernest Pearson, Joshua Pearson, Amanda Pearson and Destiny Fulkerson; numerous great grandchildren; one sister, Wilma Greene of Tennessee and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; one grandson, Robert Whitis; three brothers: Jimmy Abernatha, Billy Abernatha and Earl Abernatha, and three sisters: Carrie Abernatha, Joyce Rudolph and Linda Crane.

The family will receive friends for a visitation on Saturday, April 21, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. until time of funeral service 11:00 a.m. at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington. Reverend Brad Shumaker will officiate.

Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Wilmington, and Mary’s grandsons will act as pallbearers.

Family and friends may sign the guest book, upload photographs or share Mary’s memorial page online and on social medial by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com/notices/Mary-Whitis.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)