Edna Whitener, 85, of Murphy died Tuesday, December 28, 2004 in a Cherokee County care facility. A native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, she was the daughter of the late Fred and Mattie Danner Whitener. She retired after 45 years as a seamstress with Brumby Manufacturing Company. Edna was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church. She enjoyed working in her garden and was loved by all who knew her, and she loved all her family and friends.

Surviving are a son, David Johnson and wife, Edna Earle of Murphy; a sister, Emile Johnson of Powell Station, TN; a brother, Ray Whitener of Murphy; three grandchildren, Cynthia Moldzik, Karen Johnson, and Michael Johnson, all of Murphy; and three great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM Monday, January 3, 2005 in the Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Bill Maughan officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Danny and Ronnie Whitener, Steve Forrister, Randy and Brian Mundy, and Randall Shields. Michael Johnson, and Eric, Matthew, Steve, and Dustin Whitener served as honorary pallbearers.

The family received friends from 1:00-1:50 Monday afternoon at the Hopewell Baptist Church prior to the services.

The family requests memorials be made to the Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 215 Hopewell Rd, Murphy, NC 28906.

Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy in charge of all arrangements.