Thomas Roy Whatley

“Uncle Tommy” passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, in Baton Rouge, LA at the age of 68.

Tom was born on February 19, 1958, to Anna Katherine (Kaki) and Lee R. Whatley in Baton Rouge, where he spent his formative years. After graduating from Catholic High and LSU, he pursued his true passion - - teaching. His professional life, teaching drama at all levels K-12, was mostly spent in Florida, punctuated briefly by a “stopover” in Richmond, VA and several summers in Chicago to obtain his Masters in Theater Direction from Roosevelt University. While Tom cherished the many friendships he cultivated on his life’s journey, upon retirement, he returned to his roots. Though he never married, whenever he was asked if he had any children, his reply was always the same… “Yes, over a thousand.” His countless students were his children and he was as proud as any parent whenever they succeeded in their lives.

Tom had many loves in his life . . . among them music, comedy, art, film, travel, sports, food/cooking, and family, just to name a few . . . and he approached them all with equal intensity. He was always most at home on a barstool or sofa, sharing a drink, telling stories, or just being with friends and family. Christmas was his favorite season and he embraced the holiday with deep fervor. He was a selfless and thoughtful gift giver, and he always had a basket of gift cards and a collection of assorted gifts on hand to ensure that no visitor to his “Christmas Village” was ever left out (even the family pets). In his retirement, “Uncle Tommy” especially relished any activities involving his great-nieces / nephews, whom he lovingly referred to and treated as his “grandkids”.

Tommy was predeceased by his parents, Kaki and Lee, and his sister, Dana. He is survived by his siblings, Michael Whatley (Mary) of Cedar Park, TX, David Whatley (Peggy) and Mari Whatley Buzbee (Donnie) of Baton Rouge, LA and Paul of Zachary, LA., as well as seven nieces and nephews and nine “grandkids”.

The family offers their sincere thanks to the many doctors, nurses and staff of OLOL for their care and compassion.

A private graveside service will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers or donations, please enjoy your favorite adult beverage while listening to a special song or soundtrack that evokes enjoyable memories of Tom.