Ethel Minerva Whisner

Ethel Minerva Hann Whisner, 90, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026. She was born on June 28, 1936, on Dublin Road in Walkersville, Maryland, to the late Erma Ethel Ensor Hann and Paul Wilson Hann. Ethel was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Guy Whisner, who passed away in December 2025. They shared 72 years of marriage and a lifetime of memories together. She was also preceded in death by a granddaughter, grandson, and her sister, Betty Miller.

Ethel was a lifelong resident of the Frederick, Maryland, area, Ethel was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church on West Second Street in Frederick. She attended Frederick High School before continuing her education at Frederick Community College, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree in Business Administration in 1981. She also attended Hood College part-time. Throughout her career, Ethel worked for a sewing company in Frederick, North Market Street School Cafeteria, and the cafeteria at Gov. Thomas Johnson High School. She later worked at Hood College, where she served as Coordinator of Information Services and Biographical Records and as a manager.

Ethel had a deep love of history, especially the history of Frederick and the Civil War. An avid reader, she enjoyed learning about the people, places, and events of the past. She was also a strong supporter of preserving the history and traditions of Colonial Williamsburg. Ethel loved to travel and especially enjoyed cruising throughout the Caribbean. Her favorite outings included Williamsburg, Virginia, Rocking Horse Ranch in New York, and Dollywood. She loved country music and enjoyed relaxing with a good old movie on television.

Animals held a very special place in Ethel's heart as well. Over the years, she donated to many rescues and even rescued and cared for cats and dogs, giving them the love and home they needed. Most importantly, she treasured attending her children's school activities and was always proud to be a mom, supporting them every step of the way.

She is survived by her daughter, Sally Hoague of New Market, Maryland; daughter-in-law, Samantha Hoague of New Market, Maryland; granddaughter, Abigail Hoague of Frederick; great-granddaughter, Sarah Hoague of Frederick; and son, Guy David Whisner. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Frederick Health Hospice for the compassionate care, comfort, and support they provided to Ethel during the past seven months.

Ethel’s love of family, animals, history, travel, and life’s simple pleasures will remain a cherished part of the memories she leaves behind.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 21st at 11:00am at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church. A public burial and reception will be followed at Utica Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made to the Frederick County Animal Shelter, an organization close to Ethel's heart.