Kenneth Wayne Whitley

Kenneth Wayne Whitley December 28, 1959 – August 2nd, 2025

Ken Whitley, beloved member of the Hartsville community, passed away on August 2nd, 2025. Born in Bethune, South Carolina on December 28, 1959, Ken lived a life marked by dedication, service, and strong ties to family and faith.For 38 years, Ken was a valued machinist at Sonoco, where he built deep relationships and considered his colleagues like family. Beyond his work, Ken loved building things for his family and friends. His favorite items to make were duck calls and pens, which showcased his skill and creativity.

Ken and his wife Brenda shared a passion for their store, Tilly’s, where they sold many of his handcrafted items. Their favorite pastime together was collecting unique items for the store, a hobby that brought them joy and strengthened their bond.His commitment extended beyond the workplace into his church family and sharing his faith with everyone he came in contact with. Ken was a devoted member of Kelleytown Baptist Church, serving faithfully as a deacon and leading the church’s brotherhood program for 25+ years. When inviting speakers to brotherhood Ken shied away from no one. Inviting everyone from professional athletes, former governors, former inmates and everyone in between. If you had a testimony to share he wanted it to be shared at Kelleytown. Ken loved walking around church with his big smile and throwing out his famous “give me 4”. Kelleytown was more than a church for Ken, it was a home for him and his family and he wanted everyone to be apart of it.

 Ken was an avid Clemson Tiger fan. He enjoyed cheering on the tigers in every sport with family and friends. He loved nothing more than a Clemson football win on a Saturday. GO TIGERS!! Ken will be missed dearly, his family has comfort in knowing that he is now at home. He will forever be present in his family’s hearts. His legacy is one of unwavering faith, hard work, kindness, happiness and creativity. He touched many lives through his service, craftsmanship, and friendship. 

Ken was the son of the late Donald and Ethel Whitley of Bethune, South Carolina; Brother of Ronda (Ralph) Gainey of Lugoff, South Carolina; Husband of 39 years to Brenda Streett Whitley of Hartsville, South Carolina; Father to Lauren and Brandon Hodge of Hartsville, South Carolina and Christopher and Mackenzie Whitley of Charleston, South Carolina; Grandfather to Bayley Hodge.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Tuesday August 5, 2025 at 3:30 at the Kelleytown Baptist Church. Dr. Michael Madaris will officiate. The family will receive friends in the Family Life Center following the service.

"A Life So Beautifully Lived, Should Be Beautifully Remembered."

 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request donations be made to Kelleytown Baptist Church. 2609 Kelleytown Road, Hartsville, South Carolina. 29550.

Norton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be with the Whitley family during this time.