Hubert- Dennis Blake Whaley, 65, passed away Monday, December 9,2024 at Vidant Hospital in  Kenansville.

He was born in Jacksonville, NC and attended Swansboro Elementary. He also lived in Virginia, South Carolina and Michigan and graduated from Rudyard High School. He participated in organized youth sports- preferring basketball. Upon graduation, Dennis joined the Air Force and after completion of his service, he moved back to the Hubert area, where he held several jobs but preferred being a house painter.

His interest included sports and the pit bulls he raised over the years. He was an avid sports fan; his favorite team was the Green Bay Packers, but he also loved the Milwaukee Bucks, Cincinnati Reds, Tampa Bay Bucs, LA Lakers, and UNC. He trained in martial arts and loved to listen to rock 'n' roll music and have fun with his friends.

Dennis beat the odds of cancer the first time 25 years ago with a mindset that he was going to live. Ultimately, the last battle was more than he could overcome. The treatment took a toll on his mind and body.

The family will receive friends from 1-3pm Saturday, February 1,2025 at Jones Funeral Home-Swansboro.

Dennis was preceded in death by his mother, Jo Ann Rife and his maternal grandparents, Hugh and Annie Lee Brown.

He is survived by his sister, Vickie McKnight of Charlotte, NC, brother, Victor Whaley of Torrington, CT, as well as his three beloved nieces, Anna McKnight of Charlotte, NC, Emily Whaley and Lauren Whaley of Torrington, CT.