Taylor Ross Whitley
Taylor Ross Whitley, 38, passed away August 1, 2018. Taylor was born February 21, 1980 in Baytown, Texas, to Dennis and Lanette (Lemons) Whitley of Edna, TX. He attended Tarkington Elementary near Cleveland, TX, He also attended 2nd grade in Muleshoe, TX., and was a 1998 graduate of Sudan High School, Sudan, TX.
Taylor pursued excellence in everything he did. He was Valedictorian of his high school class and an outstanding athlete. He earned a scholarship to play football for Texas A&M University and was a three-year starter as an offensive lineman. He graduated from Texas A&M University, Class of 2002 and received his Master’s Degree in Sports Management from Texas A&M University. His dream to play in the NFL was realized when he was drafted in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft and played for the Miami Dolphins, Denver Broncos and the Washington Redskins. Taylor married Shannon Warny on March 13, 2004. They were the perfect team. They have two beautiful daughters, Laine Taylor, age 7, and Logan McKay, age 4, who rounded out team Whitley. He was Vice President of Sales at USA DeBusk. He and his family attended Brazos Pointe Fellowship in Lake Jackson, Texas.
Taylor was larger than life in every regard. He was a gentle giant. He lived life to the fullest and everyone around him felt his love, strength and kindness. He loved God, being with family, water sports and Aggie Football. Taylor was the most amazing husband, father, and friend. He was a man of excellence.
Taylor is survived by his wife, Shannon Warny Whitley; and their two beautiful daughters, Laine Taylor, age 7, and Logan McKay, age 4; his parents, Dennis and Lanette Whitley, of Edna; his sister and brother-in-law, Lauren and Chad Luig; and their children, Caden and Cash Luig of Aurora; as well as many beloved aunts, uncles and cousins.
Taylor was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Henry and Hazel Whitley; and his maternal grandparents, Woodrow Lemons, Thelma and Dick Todd; his aunt and uncle, Woody and Paula Lemons.
Serving as pall bearers are cousins Rob Bluhm, Scott Bluhm, John Ligon, Clay Whitley, Jack Whitley, Geoff Hangartner (friend), brothers-in-law, Chad Luig and Jeff Smith.
Memorials may be sent to the Taylor Whitley Kid College Fund, First State Bank, 200 N Brazosport Blvd, Clute, TX 77531
