George L. Whooley Jr.

George L. Whooley, Jr., of Medfield, peacefully passed away on Friday, September 27, 2024 with his family by his side. George was born in Dorchester on May 28, 1954 to George and Irene (Cox) Whooley; the fifth of their seven children. Initially nicknamed "Buddy" by his parents and siblings to distinguish him from George Sr., the moniker proved to be the perfect fit for George's kind soul and exceptional willingness to be a friend to any and all. George grew up in Dorchester and then Dedham, where he enjoyed spending time with and caring for his childhood dog Queenie, playing neighborhood sports, and generally annoying his siblings. At Dedham High School, George served as home room representative and class secretary, proudly played for the hockey team, and usually attended class. George graduated in 1972 and shortly thereafter enlisted in the United States Navy, honorably serving one tour of duty for the Country that he loved. George's military service gave him the opportunity to see the world outside of Dorchester and Dedham. He served as a radarman aboard the USS Biddle and was stationed throughout the Mediterranean during his tour.
After receiving an honorable discharge from the Navy, George returned to the Boston area and continued his life of public service, embarking on what would become a 44-year career for the United States Post Office. Some time later, after attending many notable rock concerts and Boston sporting events throughout his 20s, George decided he was ready to settle down and build a family of his own. Shortly thereafter, George met the love of his life and best friend, Patti Walsh. An unexpected romantic, if you ever asked George, he would tell you that it was love at first sight and he knew right away that he wanted to marry Patti. He got his wish. George and Patti dated for 2 years, married in 1987, and began a beautiful and inspiring 37-year-marriage full of love, laughter, teamwork, and friendship. George and Patti welcomed two children, Tim and Erin, and raised them in Dedham and then Medfield. George proudly called Medfield his home for the past 26 years, frequently attending his children's school activities and sporting events, where he was recognized as by far the loudest voice in the stands cheering on the Warriors. Regardless of where George lived, he was a relentless, positive presence in his neighborhood and in his neighbors' lives – quick to mow a lawn while someone was on vacation, snow-blow a car out of a driveway, invite families over for a swim in his beloved pool, or toss a treat to a dog out for a walk (aptly earning him the nickname "the treat guy").
George was fiercely loyal to anyone he called family or a friend and his actions displayed his true selflessness. He tirelessly worked the less-than-desirable night shift so that he could spend afternoons with his children, frequently volunteering at their afterschool programs and as an assistant coach for their youth sports teams. Whenever he sensed that an immediate or extended family member or even a family friend was in need, George would jump in his car and drive to be by their side, no questions asked. George was proud to see both of his children graduate college and start lives of their own, including welcoming his first grandchild, Olivia, in October 2023.
George leaves behind his beloved wife, Patti; his daughter, Erin; his son, Tim, daughter-in-law Becky, and granddaughter, Olivia; five siblings; Caroyln, Renie, Maureen, Debbie (and husband David), and Michael; his sister-in-law, Marie; dozens of nieces and nephews; and countless other extended family. George joins his parents, George Sr. and Irene, brother Bobby, and his (other) best friend, Mickey, in eternal life. Through his wife, children, grandchildren, family, and friends, George's lessons in unlimited and unconditional love, loyalty, selflessness, and community will live on.
All are invited to celebrate and remember George's life during calling hours on Thursday, October 3 from 4-7 pm at Roberts Mitchell Caruso Funeral Home in Medfield and at his funeral mass on Friday, October 4 at St. Edward's Parish in Medfield. George will be buried on a later date at a private burial ceremony at the United States National Cemetery in Bourne, MA, honoring his long life of service to his country. In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with George's great love for animals and the town of Medfield, donations can be made to the Medfield Animal Shelter at medfieldshelter.com.