Roy Lee Whaley

Roy Lee Whaley, age 86, of Athens, Tennessee, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Terra Bella Assisted Living in Athens. A native of Meigs County and longtime resident of McMinn County, he retired as a superintendent with Shaw Industries after earlier employment with Bonet Industries. Roy was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Athens and a life member of the Chilhowee Rod and Gun Club. He found great joy in fishing, hunting, and following NASCAR.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Clifford Whaley, and his mother and stepfather, Carlene and Ray Weir. Roy is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jane Ferguson Whaley; sons and daughters-in-law Shayne and Gail Whaley and Barry and Heather Whaley; stepdaughter Dana (Sean) Jaquish; brothers Bob (Carolyn) Whaley and Ronnie (Debbie) Weir; and seven grandchildren, Emi Kate, Amelia, Nathaniel, Abby, and Cullen Whaley, and Chloe and Caroline Jaquish, all of Athens.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who lived a steady and purposeful life grounded in family, faith, and the outdoors.