Boyce Layne Whatley Obituary (1957

Boyce Layne Whatley went to be with the Lord on September 17, 2024. His wife of 42 years and their two children were by his side during those final moments. Boyce was born December 11, 1957 in Upland, California to Madren Boyce Whatley (aka Buddy) and Darline Rawson Whatley. In 2014, Boyce retired from AT&T after 30 years of service as an area manager. It was at that time he helped to move his parents from Phoenix, AZ to a house across the street from him in order to take care of them for their remaining years. Boyce loved to be of service whether it be to his family or his community. Boyce served his community for 22 years. He held various positions starting in 1989 with his final role being as Mayor of Midlothian from May 2005 to December 2011. Prior to his involvement with the City of Midlothian, he served as President of the Ellis County Foster Parent Association. He truly had a servant's heart. Boyce and his wife Sheila were married for 42 years. He was a caring and loving husband, father, and grandfather. Nothing gave him greater joy than participating in the activities of his children and grandchildren. He attended many soccer games come rain or shine, near or far. Boyce is survived by his wife Sheila, his daughter Kelsie Merrell and her husband Clay and their two children Fallon and Jack, his son Hayden Whatley and his wife Brenna and their two children Emerson and Madelyn. His sister Rhonda Reznick and her daughter Jordan, his brother Jim Nast and his wife Robin and his brother Kyle Stuart. He is preceded in death by his father, Madren Boyce Whatley and his mother Darline Rawson Whatley along with grandparents, aunts, uncles and other family. Celebration of life will be held October 19, 2024 at 3PM at First Methodist Church, 800 S. Ninth Street, Midlothian, TX 76065. Services will be led by Pastor April Fehler who was by his side until the very end. Memorials can be made to First Methodist Church - Care Ministry Assisted Living Program or First Methodist Church - Food for Kids The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all the friends and family who have shown their love and support to Boyce during his illness over the last five years.