Kelly W. Whyte, 74, of Proctorville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2026, at Best Care Health and Rehabilitation in Wheelersburg, Ohio.
Born November 8, 1951, in Huntington, West Virginia, Kelly was the daughter of the late William and Jerry Leigh (Carson) Wildridge. She was a proud graduate of Huntington East High School, Class of 1969, and later attended Marshall University.
Kelly was a woman of curiosity, compassion, and strong convictions. She was actively involved in the local Democratic Party and cared deeply about her community and the people around her. Her love of learning and adventure took her far beyond home. As a young woman, she spent a year in Sweden as an exchange student, an experience that became a treasured part of her life. She became fluent in Swedish and maintained a lifelong appreciation for the culture and people she encountered there.
Kelly had a deep love of travel and traveled extensively throughout Europe, with Italy holding a particularly special place in her heart. She embraced the opportunity to experience new places, cultures, food, and traditions, and she carried those memories with her throughout her life.
Professionally, Kelly worked for C&P Telephone, which later became Verizon, where she built a long career and lasting connections with those around her.
Kelly shared 28 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Pat Whyte. Her family was at the center of her life, and she was especially proud of being a grandmother to four grandchildren. She treasured the time spent with her family and the memories they created together.
In addition to her husband, Pat, Kelly is survived by her stepson, Sean Whyte; stepdaughter, Shannon Whyte; brother, Bill Wildridge; sister, Lora Shumate; nephew, J.C. Shumate; four grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends who will remember her with love and affection.
Kelly will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, her love of travel and learning, her devotion to family, and her willingness to live life with curiosity and purpose. Her stories, laughter, and the memories she created with those she loved will remain a lasting part of the lives she touched.
Celebration of life for Kelly will be scheduled at a future date. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to D.W. Swick & Son Funeral and Cremation Services in Wheelersburg.
Online condolences and memories may be shared at DWSwickFuneralHome.com
Full service details and the family guest book are available at D.W. Swick & Son Funeral Home- Wheelersburg.