Denise Gayle Whitley

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Denise Gayle Whitley, longtime resident of Helena, MT.

Denise was a daring and adventurous woman who enjoyed scuba diving, skydiving, hiking mountains, canoeing, horseback riding, and even cruising through the Caribbean. She was a volunteer firefighter for the Rollins Montana fire department. Denise embraced the thrills in life, seeking all that it had to offer. She passed this inquisitiveness on to her kids and her granddaughters. As a nature-lover, she was passionate about spending as much time as possible in the national parks in Montana. Her fondness of the great outdoors started with her fifteen years as a Girl Scout and she was always happiest when camping, paddling a canoe on the lake, basking in the sunshine, feeling the wind on her skin, and she found peace out in the trees.

Denise was born May 2, 1971 in Alexandria, VA to Howard Grady Whitley III and Carol Dean Whitley. Her family moved to the Netherlands when she was just a toddler. When they returned to the states, she attended grade school in the Olney, Maryland area finally graduating from Sherwood High with the class of 1989. Continuing her education, she went on to attend Shepherd College, then Carroll College attaining her Bachelor’s degree in 2002. A lifelong learner, Denise earned her Master’s degree in Communications with an emphasis in education from Grand Canyon University in 2023.

Denise was known for her deep love of children. She spent most of her life caring for, teaching, and advocating for children. It was her greatest joy to spend time with children and as a mother and a grandmother, she thrived on the laughter and love of those little humans. As an educator she loved teaching children and believed her life’s purpose was to pass on what she knew. She taught many age groups and really felt rewarded by the experiences she had in the special education field. Her favorite part was seeing her students succeed. She was an inspiration and light to many. She loved learning and that gave her the drive to get her master’s degree.

A gentle and loving spirit Denise’s nickname was Angel but don’t let that fool you because she was also a warrior. After surviving a rare form of cancer in her eye, she was more determined than ever to experience all of the amazing things in this world to see and do. She honestly didn’t know the meaning of surrender so when doctors discovered a form of melanoma in her lungs seven years later, she dug in for a fight. She lost that battle but not without giving it everything she had.

She will be remembered as an amazing teacher, treasured cousin, loving mother, devoted grandmother, and cherished friend. Denise is survived by her children, Jacqueline Whitley-Layton of Helena, MT and Michael Whitley-Layton of Kalispell, MT; her three grandchildren Rose Whitley-Morgan, Lily Whitley-Burk, and Iris Whitley in addition to many friends and chosen family members.

A celebration of life is scheduled for April 20, 2024 at Covenant United Methodist Church, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with a reception to follow. Pastor Bill will officiate the celebration along with Denise’s children. All who knew Denise are welcome to attend and share with us. Condolences are welcome but in lieu of flowers, we ask that you plant a tree in her memory.  Simple Cremation Montana has assisted the family. 

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Denise Gayle Whitley, please visit our Tree Store.