Roy Desmond Whitley, 83, of Noblesville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2014 at Riverwalk Village in Noblesville. He was born on January 7, 1931, to the late William and Nancy (Porter) Whitley Sr. in England. He moved with his family to Philadelphia, PA at the age of three.
Mr. Whitley attended Northeast High School in Philadelphia. He and his first wife, Catherine (Hinkle) Whitley and their three children, built a life in Philadelphia where he served in his chosen profession as a police officer for the City of Philadelphia, for eight years, before being critically injured in 1957. He lived for over 20 years at the Policeman's and Fireman's Ward at Philadelphia General Hospital, where he had many friends and colleagues. When Philadelphia General closed its doors in 1985, he moved to Carmel, IN to be close to his brother, William and father, William Whitley Sr. He met his wife, Mary Lee (Miller) Whitley in Carmel, and they were married on October 17, 1987. He has resided with Mary and their children in Noblesville for 27 years, recently at Riverwalk Village.
He was dedicated to his family and was a friend and mentor to many in Noblesville. As a young man, he was a sportsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he continued to be interested in these sports throughout his life. He tracked current events and was always ready to discuss news topics and national policy. He was a wonderful, empathetic listener and gave great advice when asked. He enjoyed connecting with people through conversation and laughter, most of all.
He was, by nature, a generous and kind person. He will be greatly missed by his family, his friends, and his community.
In addition to his wife, Mary, he is survived by his brother, William J. Whitley of Carmel; his children, Carol Ann Whitley & Sandra Whitley (Joan Bradley) both of Punta Gorda, FL, Roy John (Mary Grace) Whitley of Annandale, VA, Michelle (Sam) Fowler of Monroe, NC, John Miller and Sarah (Jarrett) Robbins both of Westfield, IN; 15 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Catherine.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, April 26, 2014 at Randall & Roberts Funeral Center, 1685 Westfield Road in Noblesville, with visitation beginning at 1:00 pm immediately prior to the service. Pastor Richard Judson will officiate.
Memorial contributions may be made, in memory of Roy, to the Noblesville Police Department Donation Fund, 135 S. 9th Street, Noblesville, IN 46060.