James Michael Whaley

January 13, 1952 - November 2, 2019

James Michael Whaley, 67, of Falmouth, KY, passed away on Saturday, November 2, 2019, at the Harrison Memorial Hospital in Cynthiana. Born on January 13, 1952 in Covington, KY, he was the son of the late Floyd Newton “Newt” Whaley and Wanda Lou Galloway Whaley. On August 5, 1978, he married Debbie Ammerman, his dear wife survives his passing. A 1970 graduate of Pendleton High School, Mike and his wife Debbie have owned and operated Whaley Realty & Auctions since 1982. Receiving his first guitar at age 6 fostered a love of music and a gift of playing by ear that spanned his entire lifetime. Over the years, he started playing the piano and the banjo as well. Mike shared his gifts and talents in untold ways. In the last chapter of his life, he especially found comfort in playing gospel music and he was “right at home” sitting on the piano bench at First Baptist Church in Falmouth, with his church family. Mike had a special connection with his horses and his dogs. In addition to his wife of 41 years, Debbie, he is survived by two dearly loved daughters: Marcie Vaske (Ray J.) of Lexington, KY and Kelsie Stegman (Ryan) of Falmouth, KY ; 6 grandchildren, who were the lights of his life: Joseph, Avarie, Matthew, and Gracie Vaske; Whaley James and Whitley Stegman; and a host of extended family and friends. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Friday, November 8, 2019 at Woodhead Funeral Home, Falmouth, with Bro. Harry Crozier officiating. The visitations will be from 3-8 pm on Thursday, November 7, 2019 and from 10-11 am on Friday, at the funeral home preceding the service. Interment will take place in the Riverside Cemetery, Falmouth. Memorials are suggested to the First Baptist Church: 402 Beech Street, Falmouth, KY 41040.