Carlee Whitis

Carlee Shea Whitis, 19, of Somerset, Kentucky, graduated from this life to her heavenly home, completely healed in the arms of Jesus, on July 16, 2021, at University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky.

Carlee was a giver her entire life, depositing goodness into the lives of others. She commemorated this by taking the distinguished Honor Walk, donating her organs to others so that they could have the life full of opportunity, joy and happiness she experienced during her 19 years. She loved music and spending time with the love of her life, Ethan Carter — especially while watching him play tennis.

Born June 9, 2002, she was the daughter of Donnie and Dana Whitis of Somerset. She was a 2021 graduate of Pulaski County High School, earning an advanced diploma and numerous academic distinctions during her time as a student. She was a member of the PCHS choir and planned to attend Somerset Community College, where she would pursue a career in the medical field.

She attended Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church and sang in many churches across Pulaski County. Music was her passion of expression, and she wrote many of her own songs. Her compassionate nature was on display through her work as a Midway Veterinary Hospital technician, her involvement in youth and adult ministries, and her commitment to saving lives by being an organ donor.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Carl and Marcella Whitis; her great-grandparents, Charles and Ivadean Cooper, and James and Evelyn Fisher; two uncles, Gary Phelps and Clarence Phelps Jr.; and two aunts, Gloria Petercheff and Cindy Rose.

In addition to her parents and Ethan, survivors include a sister, Haylee Whitis of Somerset; a brother, Jeremiah Whitis of Somerset; maternal  grandparents, John (Cathy) Fisher and Debbie (Roger) Meece; three aunts, Carletta (Willie) Turner, Krissy (Brian) Mink and Stacy (Dustin) Farmer; two uncles, Sam (Pam) Phelps and John Fisher; and a host of great aunts and uncles, cousins, church family members and special friends.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Friday, July 23, 2021, at First Christian Church of Somerset. Carlee's father, Donnie Whitis and Bro. Doug Carter will be officiating. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Thursday, July 22, 2021, at the church. Burial will be in West Somerset Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Jeremiah Whitis, Zachary Carter, Lukas Reynolds, Parker Sellers, Eric Weddle, Jeff Black, Brian Black, Brett Whitaker and John Fisher.

Pulaski Funeral Home is in charge of handling arrangements. A memorial fund has been created in Carlee's name in which all proceeds will be used to establish a teen community center in Somerset. Donations may be made at any Citizens National Bank or Pulaski Funeral Home.

Carlee would encourage you to never lose hope and to get to know Jesus Christ as your personal savior. The butterfly is proof that beauty can emerge even from something completely falling apart. Carlee was known to sing like an angel; however, today, she sings as an angel.