Leota Knowles 'Lee' Whatley

Leota Knowles Whatley, passed away to heaven to "sing with the Angels" January 3, 2012. She bravely fought many health challenges including breast cancer twice chronic lung infection for 15 years and a leaking heart valve but when her spine began to crumble she chose not to continue the fight. She accepted going to be with Jesus with grace and courage. She died at home with Linda by her side. Lee was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years B.C. Whatley (Jan. 2, 1998), infant daughter Sharon Ann (1942), 9 year old son Randy Lee (1955), mother Ethel (1969), father, T.J. Knowles, Sr. (1940), dear sister and best friend Alice Knowles (2008), brother T.J. Knowles, Jr. (1979) and step father T.H. Nolan. Lee is survived by daughter Linda Whatley of Houston, niece, Norma Jean Blair and Suzie Courts, husband Buddy, nephews Tommy and wife Pat Knowles, and Johnny Knowles, beloved cousin Joyce Cornell of Citrus Heights, California, who consistently called and supported her over the years. Adversity created a strong willed, determined intelligence in Lee. She was a devoted nurturer to her son Randy, husband Buddy who was medically disabled for 20 years and for her sister Alice, who all passed away in her loving home. Lee was born June 28, 1923 in Velasco, Texas to Ethel and T. J. Knowles. She graduated from Freeport High School and sang in a trio, entertaining Brazoria County, as a young woman. She married in 1942 and as Buddy became a Navy Sea Bee, Lee went to California to work for several years. Music was always important to Lee. She played gospel music on her piano until crippling arthritis prevented her. She Sang in the Angleton First United Methodist Choir for 25 years until hearing impairment prevented that activity. She especially was a fan of the Gaithers music. She remained a devout Christian throughout her life reading her Bible regularly. She was a wonderful wife mother and home maker. She was a talented cook and seamstress. She was an active advocate for all animals, supporting the SPCA with monetary donations and support for their thrift shop. She adored her companion dog Suzie for the last 10 years. Services will be held at the First United Methodist Church 11:00am Friday January 6, 2012 with Pastors Bob Sinclair and Bonnie Cowing officiating. Burial will follow in the Angleton Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Tommy Knowles, Johnny Knowles, Buddy Courts, and John Whitney. A reception will follow at the First United Methodist Church fellowship hall, Women's Guild to celebrate Lee's wonderful spirit. We were grateful to Dr. Robert Hust and his wonderful nurse Nancy Conger for many years of medical care. Also Linda is thankful for IPH Hospice Michele and Dominick for their support. Ann was Linda's Angel the night Lee passed away. In lieu of flowers Lee requested donations to the Brazosport SPCA P.O. Box 3291 Lake Jackson, Texas 77566, or an animal shelter of your choice. Provide comfort for the family by planting a tree in memory of Leota Knowles "Lee" Whatley (Knowles), please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store. Service Information Friday, January 6th, 2012 11:00am, Angleton First United Methodist Church 219 North Arcola St Angleton, TX 77515 Interment Location Angleton Cemetery 328 Cemetery Rd. Angleton, TX 77515