Michael Whaley

(OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla.) Michael Whaley, 74, retired aviator, died peacefully at home in Okaloosa County, Fla., on July 18, 2017.

A private graveside service with full military honors will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery, Pensacola, Fla., on Tuesday, July 25.

Michael was born in Randolph County, Ala., on March 29, 1943. Michael studied at Troy University, where he earned a bachelor of applied science, master of science in management and master of science in international relations. After 21 years of service in the U.S Air Force, which included combat in Vietnam and an advisory role with the 442nd Fighter Wing, Michael continued his career in aviation publicly as a civil servant at Naval Air Station Pensacola for 16 years and privately at L3 Crestview Aerospace for eight years. His decorations and honors included the Air Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross and Kingdom of Denmark Order of the Dannebrog. Michael was a crack shot and avid sportsman, winning several championships for skeet, and earning numerous citations for landing largemouth bass. His charm, quick wit and good humor will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Teresa; his sons, David of Richmond, Va., and Reid (Kimberly) of St. Mary’s, Ga.; two grandchildren; and his mother, Cordelia of Randolph County. He is preceded in death by his father Tayloe.

The family asks that memorials be made to one’s favorite charity.