Marian Keene Whitehurst

Marian Keene Whitehurst, 90, of Rocky Mount, NC passed away peacefully on February 3, 2024. She was born in Tarboro, NC to the late Ernest and Nettie Keene. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William (Bill) Dawson Whitehurst. Marian and Bill met at the city pool in downtown Tarboro which had become “the” young adult gathering spot. It’s where Bill introduced himself and within minutes, confidently proclaimed that one day she would be his wife. And so, it was to be. That wonderful union of 57 years had been proclaimed. Marian lived a long and comfortable family focused life. She was a member of First Baptist Church and in her later years, enjoyed Sunday morning services online and singing along with the choir at home. Her deep love of music developed from childhood and became a staple in her life. During her high school years, she played piano at three Tarboro churches on Sunday morning, afternoon, and night while working at the popular “five and dime” store on Saturdays. There was always music in her heart as she could frequently be heard humming a song as she moved through the house. Marian worked locally at Abbott Laboratories as an Executive Secretary and always spoke highly of her time there. She was an avid dog lover and loving mother whose encouraging words and steadfast source of love and support never wavered. The ripples from the generous, thoughtful way she lived her life will continue in the lives of the many people she touched. Left to cherish her memory, daughter, Beverly Whitehurst Lynn and husband, Larry of North Myrtle Beach, SC; son, Ernest Kenan Whitehurst and wife, Sherry of Ft. Myers, FL; granddaughter, Kimberly Keene Lynn of North Myrtle Beach, SC; brother, Gareth Keene and wife, Frances of Goldsboro, NC; along with several nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service to celebrate Marian’s life will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 11:00 AM the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Pastor Ramon Smith presiding. A private burial will follow the service at Greenwood Cemetery in Tarboro. Visitation with the family will be from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home. The family would like to say thank you to Brunswick Health and Rehab Center in Ash, N.C. for all the loving care that was given during her time there. The family would also like to give special thanks to the Brunswick County Hospice. Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Marian’s memory to the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.