Marilyn "Kay" Beagle Whaley

Marilyn "Kay" Beagle Whaley, a warm and loving presence in the lives of all who knew her, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, in Williamstown, KY, at the age of 82. Born on April 2, 1943, in Mason, Kentucky, Kay's life was a testament to love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family.

Kay was a beloved wife to Marvin Glenn Whaley, with whom she shared 61 beautiful years of marriage. Together they built a life filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories. The couple first met at KY Foods over 60 years ago, where Marvin worked, marking the beginning of a love story that would inspire those around them.

As a mother, Kay was known for her fun-loving spirit and her incredible talent for cooking. Her home was a sanctuary, characterized by its cleanliness and organization, reflecting her pride in providing a nurturing environment for her loved ones. Kay's culinary skills were legendary; she delighted her family with home-cooked meals, praising the simple joys of life through food. Her baking, especially her yeast rolls, Christmas candies, cookies, homemade pies, and mashed potatoes, created an everlasting bond amongst her family. She also had a passion for gardening, often spending hours tending to her flower beds, and she enjoyed canning vegetables to savor the flavors of summer all year round.  Early in life, Kay was a farmer and loved to raise cows and goats.

Kay is survived by her two devoted daughters, Susan (Kenneth) Marksberry and Lorie Dunn, who carry on her legacy of love. She leaves behind two sisters, Lily Mae Norton and Linda O'Neill, three cherished grandchildren—Derrike Marksberry, Harley (Marco) Navarrete, and Michelle (Cody) Murphy—along with three great-grandsons, Greyson, Giovanni, and Gavi, who were the light of her life. Kay's family was central to her existence, and through each family gathering, she instilled values of togetherness and generosity in her loved ones.

Beyond her role as a mother and caregiver, Kay was a vibrant member of her community and a lifelong member of Grassy Creek Christian Church, where she proudly served as a former youth leader. Her spirit touched many lives, and she will be remembered for her giving nature and the kindness she extended to others.

A visitation in celebration of Kay's life will be held on February 27, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Stanley Funeral Home in Williamstown. Following this, a funeral service will take place at 2:00 PM, leading to her burial at the Williamstown Cemetery at 3:00 PM. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude's or the St. Elizabeth Foundation.

Kay was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Millard F. Beagle and Zula Pet Conyers Beagle, as well as her adored pet dogs, Barkley, Bandit, Blackie, and Spot. Though she has departed from this earthly realm, her spirit and the love she shared will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

In every garden she tended, every meal she prepared, and every moment she spent with her family, Kay Whaley’s legacy will continue to blossom, enriching the lives she touched and reminding all of us of the beauty of love and kindness.