Mary Wilhite, 79, Passes Away in Sharon Grove

Longtime nurse and church member was preceded in death by her parents and sisters.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:50am

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, earthy tones depicting the blurred outline of a church steeple and surrounding trees, conceptually representing the quiet, reflective mood of a small-town community mourning the loss of a longtime resident.The passing of a beloved community member in Sharon Grove reflects the enduring spirit of small-town life.Elkton Today

Mary Elizabeth Wilhite, a 79-year-old resident of Sharon Grove, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at her home. Wilhite was a licensed registered nurse who retired from Western State Hospital. She was a member of Carter Creek Missionary Baptist Church, where she served on the choir and kitchen committee. Wilhite is survived by her husband of 62 years, Tommy Wilhite, her two daughters, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Wilhite's passing marks the end of an era for the Sharon Grove community, where she had been an active member of the local church and a dedicated healthcare professional for decades. Her life and service reflect the values of small-town Kentucky and the importance of community involvement.

The details

Wilhite was born on May 7, 1946, in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. She worked as a licensed registered nurse and retired from Western State Hospital. At her local church, Wilhite sang in the choir and served on the Kitchen Committee. She was preceded in death by her parents, Omer and Katherine Rager Laster, as well as her sisters, Aline Renfro and Ellen Hurtt.

  • Wilhite passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 9:33 p.m.
  • Funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

The players

Mary Elizabeth Wilhite

A 79-year-old resident of Sharon Grove, Kentucky, who worked as a licensed registered nurse and was an active member of her local church.

Tommy Wilhite

Wilhite's husband of 62 years.

Judy Roper

Wilhite's daughter.

Teresa Wilhite

Wilhite's daughter.

Carter Creek Missionary Baptist Church

The church where Wilhite was a member and served on the choir and kitchen committee.

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The takeaway

Wilhite's life and service to her community in Sharon Grove, Kentucky, exemplified the values of small-town America, where individuals dedicate themselves to their local churches, healthcare institutions, and family. Her passing marks the end of an era for the Sharon Grove community.