SFC Richard Gaylord Whaley

Retired SFC Richard Gaylord Whaley passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, after a short illness. He was Bigger than life, full of love, kind and generous. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Richard was born in Nutter Fort, WV on September 3, 1944 to James Oris Whaley, Sr. and Nellie Virginia Smith. Richard joined the United States Army in 1961 at the ripe old age of 16. He has always regarded his military service as the second best decision he’s ever made. Not only did the US Army afford him the ability to travel and see the world, it allowed him to gain a lifetime of experiences, a treasure trove of stories and life-long friends who are more like Family; and …. it led him to the L❤️VE of his life, Florentina Mariano! Who else but Richard would be blessed enough to meet his soulmate at a base exchange?!! At the tender age of 19, he made his BEST decision! Richard and Flora were married in July 20, 1964 …. Imagine having the foresight at that age to know that you want to spend the rest of your life with someone - and he did! They spent the next 60 years loving each other, experiencing ups and downs, and growing and nurturing their family. What a life they had together! Richard loved his Faith, his Country and his Family. He was a dedicated member of St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Leesburg, a 22-year disabled Veteran and a devoted husband, father and grandfather. His friends were family to him - he didn’t know a stranger - and his Family and Friends - all of us - were the center of his world. Rick and Marinette; Tina and John; Rodney, Ryan and Roman; Ron, Chrissy, Rachael, Raiden, Olivia and Gracie; Juvy, Kevin and Kaycie- we are all better humans because of him. He instilled in us respect, gratitude, love, kindness and generosity. He taught us to be gracious and grateful and his love and support for us has never wavered. He was the Best of the Best and our world is a little more sucky without him. Richard - Rest Easy. You can be proud of the life you led and the lives you touched. You always let your love shine through - none of us can doubt the amount of love you had for us - you showed us every day. You certainly made the world a better place. We love you and will miss you. Enjoy Paradise - you earned it! The family will be receiving friends from 11:00AM to 12:15PM on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Loudoun Funeral Chapel. A Funeral service will be held at 1:00PM on Saturday, April 27, 2024 with Father Kevin Larsen officiating at Saint John The Apostle Catholic Church . Richard will have a military burial graveside at the Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined. We will update once we have the information from ANC. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com

SFC Richard Gaylord Whaley

September 3, 1944 - April 9, 2024