A Special 90th Birthday Celebration

I had the opportunity to attend Mrs. Catherine Whitley's 90th birthday celebration. She is the former first lady of the Norfolk District and wife to the late Presiding Elder Edmund H. Whitley. The celebration was held at St. Thomas A.M.E. Zion Church in Norfolk, VA, and was hosted by her lovely children and church family.

Mrs. Whitley walked into her celebration adorned in purple and gold, escorted by her grandsons, looking beautiful. Rev. Dr. Lamb, Pastor of St. Thomas A.M.E. Zion Church, and First Lady Mrs. Lamb hosted the grand occasion. Guests attended virtually and in person to celebrate Queen Catherine. 

At the beginning of the celebration, her son, Edmond Whitley Jr, granddaughters, and other family and friends who joined virtually shared special reflections about Mrs. Whitley via Zoom.  Bishop W. Darin Moore and Missionary Supervisor Mrs. Devita Moore, Retired Bishop Dennis Proctor and Missionary Supervisor Mrs. D. Diane Proctor, Bishop Brian Thompson, Missionary Supervisor Rev. Felica Thompson, Bishop Melanie Rodgers Miller, and Missionary Supervisor Rev. Jimmie Miller shared remarks from their respective locations. 

After the virtual reflections, family and friends shared reflections at the celebration with Mom Whitley, a nickname for Mrs. Whitley by many. Woman of God, best dressed, classy, distinguished, and intelligent were some of the characteristics shared about Mrs. Whitley. As reflections were shared, Mrs. Whitley smiled.  

After the celebration, I spoke to Mrs. Whitley about the love and joy she felt to be celebrated by those who love her most. She shared, “I felt wonderful, and it was a good feeling to have my family and friends to celebrate my 90th birthday with me.” Mrs. Whitley is a true testament to what it means to be a Godly woman.