Connie L. Whaley, 79, of Laurel, died Tuesday, November 11, 2014 at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born March 22, 1935 in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, a daughter of the late Ezra and Evelyn Stapleton. Connie graduated from Reynoldsburg High School before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force, where she would meet her future husband, Richard "Dick" F. Whaley. Upon their marriage she left the Air Force to raise her family. She loved to travel and enjoyed raising her children in the many places her husband was stationed. They moved back to Laurel in 1971. Family was a special part of her life and Christmas her favorite holiday; she has left lasting memories of family gatherings, festive decorations and home baked cookies. She loved going to auctions to search out that special Heisey collectible and was also an active member of the Laurel Garden Club for many years. Connie played the piano and had a beautiful singing voice. She is survived by her husband of almost 60 years, Richard "Dick" F. Whaley; three sons, Philip Whaley and his wife, Laura Springham of Chincoteague, Mark Whaley and his wife, Sue of Laurel and Blair T. Whaley and his wife, Amy Lowe of Laurel; four grandchildren, Eric Whaley (wife, Carrie), Melissa Wright (husband, Chad), Patience Whaley and Chelsea Whaley; six great grandchildren, Mackenzie, Madelyn, Ryan, Sean, Kenniss and Bailey; a sister, Mary Jo Howard of Ohio; and a brother, Robert Stapleton (wife, Susan) of Ohio. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Ruth Barbieri. Services are private at the request of the family. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963 or Laurel Fire Department, 205 W. 10th Street, Laurel, DE 19956. Arrangements are being handled by Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.