Elizabeth (Betsy) Key Whaley

Bradenton -

Elizabeth Key Whaley passed away in the presence of her loving husband, children, their spouses and grandchildren, December 2, 2023. The daughter of Blanche Elizabeth Eargle and William Bartlett Key Jr., she was born in Chester, SC and grew up in Rock Hill, SC.

She attended Brenau University in Gainesville, GA, and joined Alpha Chi Omega. She later transferred to Winthrop College in Rock Hill. Shortly after graduating, she moved to Charleston where she taught 2nd grade.

Walking through the flooded streets of Charleston in the aftermath of Hurricane Gracie, Betsy and Preston Whaley crossed paths. Wet as it was, sparks ignited a 63 years long romance.

Their early years were hectic yet rewarding as the new couple raised four children. During part of that time, while Preston was earning his medical degree and specialty, Betsy worked at the Trident Technical College teaching literacy to adults, mostly parolees and prisoners. The job was meaningful to her because it aligned with her sense of fairness and social awareness.

After medical training, the family settled in a home on Manatee River in Bradenton. Betsy loved the house and the natural beauty around it. Countless people enjoyed her elegant, sophisticated yet warm and inviting hospitality. The house became home to multiple strays, animal and human. Betsy hosted countless parties, holiday dinners, weddings and graduations. Her house was a destination and a reflection of her caring, creative and generous personality.

Betsy had exquisite style in the way she lived but also in the way she dressed. Throughout her life, even the final weeks, when she walked in the room, she stopped the show. It was just her way. She shared her love of fashion with friends, kids and their wives. The generosity overflowed. She would take you shopping and buy you something suitably vogue.

Not long after moving to Bradenton with four children - Preston Jr., William, Christopher and Key - Shayne Mora joined the family. He wasn't born a Whaley, but to this day he is a beloved son and brother.

Betsy cooked delectable meals, which she shared with countless relatives, friends and strangers. She remains locally famous for several dishes, especially, her macaroni and cheese.

When the children reached college age, she and Preston were able to read more and travel widely. Betsy was a wide-ranging, voluminous reader.

In addition to their annual snow skiing vacations to places far & wide, they travelled frequently and adventurously to Europe, China, South America, Canada, the Caribbean and Africa. The Orient Express and the Safari in Africa were their favorite trips. Betsy was a fun and adventurous traveling companion. She made an impression most everywhere they went. They told wondrous stories. When not traveling, they spent many summers at their beautiful home in Highlands, NC, where they took their hospitality with them.

Betsy and Preston loved soul music. From Aretha Franklin to Marvin Gaye - artists like these comprised the Whaley family's soundtrack. When the music was good, Betsy and Preston were dancing. Preston was the rhythm section and she was the solo. They had impeccable chemistry and style and could shag better than most of us have ever seen.

Betsy made time for people. She made you feel comfortable and engendered trust. She was open minded. She authentically and enthusiastically showed up to support anyone she cared about. And she cared about a lot of people.

Betsy taught by example and word. People were drawn to her. Like so many mothers, she sacrificed greatly for her kids. She gave them the best she had and she is so appreciated for it. She was an exciting and caring partner to her husband. She expressed her life in a magically loving and lovely way. We miss and love her, dearly.

Betsy Whaley is survived by her husband, children (named above) and numerous grandchilren: Scarlett Whaley, Isabella Whaley, Noah Rosser, Savannah, Scout and Liam Mora, Otis Whaley, Imogene Whaley and by her brother, William B. Key III.

In lieu of flowers please honor her by donating to the charity of your choice.