James Michael "Mike" Whatley

James Michael "Mike" Whatley age 76 of Waldo, Arkansas, passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at The Green House Cottages of Wentworth Place in Magnolia, Arkansas.
Mike was born on February 10, 1949, in Minden, Louisiana, and is preceded in death by his parents James G. and Willie Dee Sandifer Whatley, Father-in-Law, Billy Joe Barker, and Brother-in-Laws James Barker, Ritchie Barker, Randy Paul and Ronald Paul.
Mike is survived by his wife of 55 years, Vicki Jo Barker Whatley; his two children, son, Wayne Whatley and daughter, Erika (Frank) Chamberlain; grandchildren, Austin Vaughn, Kelsey (TJ) Whatley, Victoria (Colton) Loe, and Connor Chamberlain; Mother-in-Law, Gloria Barker; siblings, Joey (Brenda) Whatley, Sheryl Paul, Barbara (Bobby) Wilson, and Norma Paul; Sister-in-Laws, Sherry (Tony) Smart, Theresa (Mark) McGrew, and Shawnee (Dennis) Cooper along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Mike lived in multiple towns in Louisiana throughout his childhood. He graduated from Sunset High School in Sunset, Louisiana, in 1967 and attended Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana. He later moved with his wife and children to Eight Mile, Alabama; Houston, Texas; and finally, to Waldo, Arkansas, where he established his forever home.
Mike worked in production in the Gulf of Mexico for 35 years before retiring. He came out of retirement and worked for Albemarle Corporation, Magnolia, Arkansas, for five years with his final retirement in 2011.
Mike had many hobbies and skills. In his early years, he enjoyed writing poetry and composing melodies for songs. He was a master craftsman and ran his own sawmill. He used his lumber to build his home and furniture. He loved selling his work at craft shows and visiting with other vendors. His favorite craft was making walking sticks. He also loved to pick blueberries from his yard and sell them at farmer's markets and local businesses.
Although Mike was not a perfect man, he did find comfort in Jesus. "Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit." Psalm 32:1-2. "I am the way and the truth and life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6.
The family would like to give a sincere thank-you to the caregivers who helped diligently with Mike's care: Chloe Lister, Juanita Hayes, Linda Ensley, and Victoria Loe. You all are very much loved and appreciated. We would also like to thank Dr. Jason Franks, Kelly Yerger, NP, Dr. Fred Murphy, and all the staff at Wentworth Place who lovingly cared for Mike at the end of his life.
"Peace I leave with you: My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that any donations may be sent to Alzheimer's Association, Diabetes Association, or any church of your choice.