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Jerry Whatley Obituary
Age 76, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2013 at Serenity House with his daughter by his side. Jerry was born in Midland, Arkansas to the late Thomas A. Whatley and Edna (Peters) Whatley. He graduated from Fresno High School, and served in the Army in Korea before marrying in 1958 and attending CSU Fresno. He graduated with a BA in political science, and earned a JD at USC before moving to Santa Barbara in 1966 with his wife and two young daughters. Jerry was a prominent criminal defense attorney, the "great American trial lawyer" (GATL), and he lived life to the fullest. In the later years Jerry worked as court appointed appellate defense counsel. Jerry is survived by his ex-wife and lifelong companion Bonita Whatley of Santa Barbara, brothers Thomas A. Whatley Jr. of Northridge, and Robert A. Ressl of Arlington TX, daughter Sylvia Whatley Beckham (John) of Ojai, son John Peters Whatley of Stanton, and four grandchildren: Spencer, Jeremy, and Abigail Fenczik, and Jefferson Beckham. Jerry was preceded in death by daughter Gail Jeanette Fenczik. No services are planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Serenity House or Cancer Center of Santa Barbara
.
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Memories and Condolences
for Jerry Whatley
Sabina A McAleer
April 25, 2025
I lived with Jerry for 10 years. So smart, caring and new his way around the courtroom and Judges. Excellent attorney! He loved his 3 children and always spoke respectly about Bonita his X wife. He was a good soul.
Jerry you were a fighter (warrior) all your life may PEACE be with you .
Mike Wilson
August 28, 2013
In 1970 a junkie stole my only guitar that I needed to play at the then Sportsman's Bar. The cops busted the junkie but told me the guitar was going to be held as evidence. At the suggestion of a friend I went to see Mr. Whatley. He listened to my story and made a couple of phone calls while I was in his office. After some heated arguing with the Detectives, Mr. Whatley told me where I could go to pick up my guitar.
The cost? Zero.
Thanks again, Mr. Whatley.
August 27, 2013
I remember you fondly from years past in court, always treating the staff kindly, with humor and a wink. Rest in peace, Dreena Lindsay, former court reporter
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Pam
August 27, 2013
Jerry was such a nice man , and an excellent Attorney. Rest in Peace Jerry. All your good deeds will never be forgotten
David Brown
August 27, 2013
You were one excellent attorney
steve talley
August 27, 2013
Bye Jerry.
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