News Summary
Kathy Whitely, a cherished high school teacher and community leader from Chattanooga, TN, passed away at the age of 76, leaving a lasting legacy of love and education. Known for her dynamic teaching style and commitment to her community, Kathy had a profound impact on many lives. Her influence extended beyond the classroom, deeply engaging with the local church and fostering genuine connections through her warmth and generosity. As her community mourns her loss, Kathy’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Chattanooga, TN – Beloved Teacher and Community Leader Kathy Whitely Passes Away at Age 76
Katherine “Kathy” Helen (Papastavro) Whitely, a cherished high school teacher and respected community leader, passed away on May 6, 2025, at the age of 76. Surrounded by her devoted husband, Dr. Billy “Gerald” Whitely, Jr., Kathy leaves behind a legacy of love, education, and faith that has deeply impacted the lives of many.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, on March 14, 1949, Kathy dedicated much of her life to teaching and community service. She was known for her dynamic teaching style, covering subjects including home economics, history, government, geography, and typing. Students and colleagues often praised her for her wisdom and memorable sayings, particularly her belief that “People are more important than things.” Her warmth and occasional stubbornness endeared her to many, fostering genuine connections that extended well beyond the classroom.
Kathy’s influence reached far into her local community, particularly through her long-time commitment to the Calvary Independent Baptist Church in Brainerd, where she taught the adult ladies Sunday school class for over three decades. Members of her class appreciated her ability to convey profound truths with grace, often admiring how she pointed others to Jesus both through her teachings and in her everyday behavior.
With a love for cooking that turned her kitchen into a hub of fellowship and service, Kathy utilized her culinary skills to bless others with hearty meals, celebrating her proud Greek heritage by emphasizing family and hospitality. This spirit of generosity extended into her relationships as she supported her children and grandchildren in their pursuits.
Kathy is survived by her husband, Dr. Billy “Gerald” Whitely, Jr., as well as her children: Rebekah Van Der Hengst, Phillip Whitely, Beth Baxter, and John Whitely, each accompanied by their spouses. Furthermore, she is remembered by her sister, Nickie Borodko, along with numerous loving in-laws, five grandchildren, and a large network of nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. Throughout her life, Kathy also embraced a host of honorary sons and daughters whom she cared for deeply.
A visitation to honor Kathy will be held on Tuesday, May 13, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and again on Wednesday, May 14, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Calvary Independent Baptist Church, located at 4601 North Terrace, Chattanooga, TN 37411. A celebration of Kathy’s life will commence immediately following the Wednesday visitation at 12 p.m., with officiation by her pastor, Dr. Jamie Colbert. Following the service, interment will occur at Dailey Hills Cemetery in Ringgold, Georgia.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Calvary Christian School’s Scholarship Fund, honoring Kathy’s commitment to education and nurturing future generations. Arrangements for Kathy’s services were entrusted to Covenant Funeral & Crematory, a family-owned and operated business.
Kathy Whitely will be remembered not only for her role as an educator but also for her unwavering kindness, vibrant spirit, and the significant mark she left on her community and family. Her legacy will surely continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.
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- Tribute Archive: Kathy Whitely
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- Tribute Archive: Kathy Whitely (Covenant Funeral & Crematory)
- Google Search: Katherine Whitely obituary
- Tribute Archive: Kathy Whitely (Visitation Info)
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
