Richard Lee Whelton, Jr.

Richard Lee Whelton Jr., 64, departed this life on June 25, 2025. Born on July 20, 1960, in Washington, D.C., he was raised in University Park, Maryland, the community he proudly called home for most of his life.

Richard was a devoted father, a loyal friend, and a proud fan of all things Maryland.

He earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from Loyola University in New Orleans — a city that always held a special place in his heart. Richard built a successful legal career across multiple areas of practice. He began his career at a law firm, then operated his own firm with a partner, before ultimately transitioning into corporate title work, where he applied his legal expertise for many years.

Richard found joy in life’s simple pleasures. A phenomenal chef, he loved sharing his passion for cooking with family and friends. He took pride in planning and hosting gatherings, meticulously caring for his lawn, and cheering on his beloved Washington Redskins and University of Maryland football and basketball teams.

A true dog lover, Richard found companionship with his dogs — Clyde, Argyle, Woody, and most recently, his loyal best friend, Doc, who was named in honor of his late father, one of the most special and influential men in his life.

The beach was Richard’s happy place—especially Ocean City, Maryland, where he cherished family vacations on 64th Street, surrounded by the people he loved most.

Richard’s life held both great joys and difficult struggles. In recent years, he faced challenges, despite the steadfast support of his family and closest friends. While those who loved him wish he could have found peace in this life, they hold tight to the laughter and love he shared so generously. His memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew him — not defined by his struggles, but by the life, warmth, and spirit he brought into the world.

He is survived by his three children: Richard Lee Whelton III (Trey), Mary (Whelton) Cole and her husband Chris Cole, and Patrick Thomas Taylor Whelton. He was a proud grandfather to Daxton and Delaney Cole.

Richard is also survived by his former spouse, Terry Whelton; his siblings—Paul Whelton and his wife Barbara, Elizabeth “Zippy” Mouledoux and her husband Warren, and Suzanne Whelton and her husband Christian Hochuli. Also survived by his sister-in-law, Nina Whelton; his beloved aunt, Mary Taylor; and many cherished cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Richard Lee Whelton and Jacqueline Odell Whelton; his sister, Mary Louise Raynor; his brother, Stephen Whelton; and his cousin and best friend, John Taylor. Richard carried the love and memories of those who went before him deeply in his heart, and their absence was felt intensely throughout his life.

Richard will be remembered for his sharp wit, generous heart and larger-than-life spirit. His deep love for those around him and ability to bring life to any room left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be missed immensely by all who knew and loved him.