Calvin Lee Whisenant

May 4, 1927 - June 24, 2012

Obituary

Calvin Lee Whisenant, 85, of Morganton, died Sunday, June 24, 2012 at Burke Hospice and Palliative Care. Born on May 4, 1927 in Burke County, he was the son of the late James Lee "Jimmy Lee" Whisenant and Sarah Louise "Sally" Whisenant.

Mr. Whisenant was a veteran of the United States Army, having served during World War II. He was a charter member of Zion Baptist Church and worked for Henredon Furniture for 37 years. Mr. Whisenant was an avid gardener who was known as the "man with the beautiful garden on 181 with the BEST tomatoes." He had an inspirational work ethic which was an example to all.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Cherolyn Mull Whisenant. He is survived by his two daughters, Karen Wilson and her husband, Gene of Morganton and Gina Pritchard of Morganton; three grandchildren, Lucas Wilson, Chelsea Brackett and Daniel Pritchard; one great-grandson, Kolby Brackett; sisters, Margaret Benfield, Irene Powell, Naomi Freeman and her husband, Granville and Ethel Kincaid and her husband, Ralph; many nieces and nephews; and special friend, Penny Avery.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the church.

Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 27, 2012 at Zion Baptist Church with the Reverend Dr. Steve Parker, the Reverend Keith Rose and the Reverend David Orders officiating. Burial will follow the service in the church cemetery.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Zion Baptist Church, 3396 Pea Ridge Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Kirksey Funeral Home of Morganton has the honor of assisting the Whisenant family.