Obituary

Charlotte Mabel (Graves) Whiteley passed away peacefully on Monday, June 9, 2025, in Blaine, Washington, at the remarkable age of 103.

Born on March 27, 1922, in Whatcom County, Washington, Charlotte was the youngest child of Maud A. (Plaster) Graves and Frank C. Graves. She grew up with three older brothers—Lee, Frank, and Bert. She attended Marietta, Custer, and Ferndale schools and graduated from Ferndale High School.

On April 2, 1940, Charlotte married her childhood sweetheart, John W. Whiteley. They made their home on the Creasy Road in Custer and raised their son, Arnold Lee Whiteley, there. Later they moved to the beach at Gooseberry Point. Charlotte and John shared a love of dancing and spent many Saturday nights at local grange hall dances. They also enjoyed road trips and spent many vacations in Branson, MO and visiting their son in Wisconsin.

Throughout her long life, Charlotte worked various jobs, including as a waitress at the White Spot, always balancing her work with her deep devotion to her family and friends. Known for her generous spirit, she was a cherished friend and neighbor, always ready to welcome visitors with a warm cup of tea and a good story. Charlotte loved entertaining and had a special gift for making others feel at home. She was a member of New Life Fellowship and the Samish Indian Nation.

Charlotte found great joy in simple pleasures—playing cards and games, assembling puzzles, tending her garden, and baking her delicious blackberry cobbler. She especially loved long walks on the beach, collecting agates and interesting stones along the shore. Even as her eyesight and age eventually limited her activities, her positive attitude, gentle spirit and loving heart endured.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her husband, John, in 2008; her son, Arnold, in 2012; an infant grandson, Michael, in 1967; her parents; and her brothers.

She is survived by her grandchildren: Charlotte Capri Whiteley; Arnold John (AJ) Whiteley; Matthew and Lori Whiteley; and Brian Whiteley. She also leaves behind great-grandchildren: Jennifer Stillings, Paige Dowdy, Casey Samuelson, Austin Whiteley, Robyn Whiteley, and Lori’s children Shawn and Alex Quinnell; as well as great-great-grandchildren: Ezra Ruffin, Luca Ruffin, and Henry Whiteley. Charlotte is also remembered by her nephews, Richard Graves and Grant Graves, dear friends, and extended family members.

Charlotte now rests in peace, reunited with her beloved family.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at Moles Greenacres Memorial Park, 5700 Northwest Dr., Ferndale, WA.