CARRSVILLE – Rev. Elvin Harrell "Hal" Whitley, III, age 62, passed peacefully surrounded by family and entered his heavenly home on Saturday, February 6, 2010. He was born June 9, 1947 in Franklin, VA, youngest son of the late Elvin Harrell Whitley, Jr. & Ira Edwards Whitley. He is survived by his loving wife Linda Bozard Whitley, devoted daughters Anne Renee Whitley & Ashley Dawn Whitley; brother, Gerald E. Whitley & wife, Jeannie C. Whitley.
At age 5, Hal learned to play piano and continued to share his love of music throughout his life. He received his Masters degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and served 32 years as Minister of Music at Norview Baptist Church, Courtland Baptist Church, and Hunterdale Christian Church. He enjoyed teaching Music Appreciation at Paul D. Camp Community College, and was former President and member of the Franklin Music Club. Hal was staff organist of Wright Funeral Home and enjoyed sharing his talents with the community.
The family will receive friends for visitation at Wright Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 9, from 7-8:30 p.m. A celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, February 10, at 2 p.m. at Hunterdale Christian Church, Franklin, with Pastor Don Rosie officiating. A concert of organ music by Mrs. Grace Holdren, will begin a half hour prior to service. Interment will follow the service at Southampton Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, Hal and his family request memorial contributions to be sent to Hunterdale Christian Church, Hal Whitley Music Fund, 741 Hunterdale Road, Franklin, VA 23851.