Thelma Whisnant

MORGANTON Thelma Mae Brittain Whisnant, 79, of Morganton, died Friday, April 5, 2013. Born in Burke County, N.C., Sept. 14, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Charlie Edward Brittain and Katie Mae Rudicill Brittain. Thelma was a member of Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church. She was a wonderful baker, particularly when it came to pies and cakes, and she loved to shop and work in the flower garden. Thelma babysat for many children. Mrs. Whisnant is survived by her husband of 49 years, Arvel "Gene" Whisnant, of the home; daughter, Robin Key and husband, James, of Morganton; grandchildren, Raven and Weston Key; and a sister, Mary Watson, of Morganton. In addition to her parents, Thelma was preceded in death by three brothers, Virgil, Lonnie, and Lee Brittain; and two sisters, Katherine McGee and Rachel Lou Whisnant. The funeral will be held at 1:30 p.m., Monday, April 8, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home, with the Rev. Darvy Hensley officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1 to 1:30 p.m. prior to the service.

Published in The News Herald on April 7, 2013