Corey Latez Whitley

Corey L. Whitley was born on February 20, 1979, in Brownsville, Tennessee, to Saul Whitley and Linda Houston. His spiritual journey began at Greater Fredonia Baptist Church, where he proudly served as a member of the Male Chorus Ministry. He often shared with a smile that he was “working on becoming a lead vocalist in the choir.”

Affectionately known as “Big C,” Corey received his education through the Shelby County School District. Gifted with skilled hands, he became a talented machinist, working at Crystal Steele Fabricators in Gallaway and, more recently, at Precision Coils in Brownsville, Tennessee.

Corey was an “anything Tennessee” fan. Whether it was the Tennessee Titans, Memphis Grizzlies, Tennessee Vols, football or basketball, he was fully and joyfully “sold out to Tennessee.”

Though Corey’s life was brief, the impact he made was lasting. He was kindhearted, full of wit and laughter, and deeply loved by many.

Corey L. Whitley leaves to cherish his memory: his daughter, Corriana Whitley of Paragould, Arkansas; his parents, Saul (Vicky) Whitley of Mason, Tennessee, and Linda Houston (Reverend Andrew) Douglas of Brownsville, Tennessee; six siblings, Terris (Shaunice) Neal of Brownsville, Tennessee; Bianca Brown of Jackson, Tennessee; Cynthia Walton of Nashville, Tennessee; Tony Billingsley and Justin Stevenson of Mason, Tennessee; and Travis (Tamekia) Stevenson of Clarksville, Tennessee. He also leaves his grandparents, Maerenna Houston of Brownsville, Tennessee, and Joe B. Watkins of Mason, Tennessee. He also leaves behind a dear friend and companion, Jessica Feltus. 

Corey is further remembered by a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, relatives, coworkers, and friends who will hold his memory close.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Charlie and Arthur Mae Whitley, Joseph Houston, and Bobbye J. Watkins.