Jacob Lorenza

Whatley

Jacob Lorenza Whatley

January 22,1959 – November 6, 2026

Jacob “Wren” Whatley, age 67, went to be with his Lord and Savior on November 6, 2026. Jacob was born in Tuskegee, Alabama, to the late Jacob and Annie-Ruth Whatley on January 22, 1959. After graduating from high school and some college, he attended the Alabama State Trooper Academy and graduated top in his class. He served with the Auburn University Police Department for many years and achieved the rank of sergeant. Jacob later worked at Uniroyal for 10 years until he had to medically retire. He drove a school bus for Auburn City Schools until he retired.

Jacob and his family raised and rode Tennessee Walking Horses and played co-ed slow pitch softball for many years. Later, Jacob started the Blue Grass – Southern Gospel group, The Redeemed. Jacob was the lead singer, wrote many of their songs, and played the bass; his brother, Guy, sang with the group, and his wife, Elizabeth, played rhythm guitar. Jacob also enjoyed riding his motorcycle with his friends.

Jacob was survived by his wife, Elizabeth Virginia Mullins of Auburn, Alabama, whom he married on August 15, 1981. They were married at Armstrong United Methodist Church. They had one son, Jacob L. Whatley, II (Heather) of Auburn, Alabama. He is also survived by his dog, Gretel, and two cats, Obi and Webster; all were rescues.

Jacob was preceded in death by his brothers, Jacob S. Whatley Jr. and Robert Guy Whatley, III.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 16, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Armstrong United Methodist Church located at 7644 Wire Road, Auburn, Alabama, with Reverend Elizabeth Whatley officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at Armstrong United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at the church graveyard.

Jacob will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him, and his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him. Jacob is remembered by all as a good man who deeply loved his family.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the American Kidney Fund.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.