Ronald Larry Whaley

Ronald “Ronnie” Whaley, 80, of Garner, NC, died on January 19, 2024. He was born in Lumberton, NC to Ralph Leon and Edna Ross Whaley. Ronnie graduated from Garner High School and obtained an Engineering Degree from NC State University before starting a prestigious career with Rockwell International. Ronnie later became the owner and Administrator of Lawndale Manor Assisted Living. He also served his community as an Auxiliary Garner Police Officer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Lt. Colonel David Whaley retired, and sister Sandra Ward.

A lifelong resident of Garner, Ronnie was an active and visible community member. He was a member of Garner United Methodist Church, where he served as church Superintendent and Treasurer, was past President of Garner Lions Club, was past Master of Garner Masonic Lodge #701 A.F. and A.M., and an Amran Shriner. Known for having a reserved but quick wit, Ronnie loved cars often showing his Cobra, entertaining friends and family, pulling for NC State, and cooking meals to support charitable and club events around town. Ronnie’s shenanigans and pig pickins’ are legendary.

Ronnie is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary “Kaye” Buffaloe Whaley of Garner; Son, Rodney Whaley of Raleigh, Cheryl Whaley of Raleigh, Granddaughters Celeste and Morgan Whaley of Raleigh; Son, William “Bill” Whaley of Benson, Christy Hobbs of Holly Springs; sister, Betsy Ross Whaley of Greensboro; Sister-in-Law, Diane Whaley of Pulaski, NY; special friends Lois Gainey and Dawn Gainey Wicker of Garner; and many nephews and nieces.

A special thank you to Monique Jones (nurse), Rex Hospital NSICU and Heart and Vascular ICU, and Heartland Hospice of Raleigh for the excellent care Ronnie received.

A graveside service will be held at Montlawn Memorial Park on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 2:00 pm with the Reverend, Susan Hobbs officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please make charitable donations to Garner Lions Club PO Box 361, Garner, NC 27529 or the Garner Masonic Lodge #701 A.F. and A.M 406 E. Main Street, Garner, NC 27529.