With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Burton William Whaley of Delmar, who passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on January 19, 1939, in Laurel, Delaware, Burton lived a life filled with love, dedication, and hard work. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, leaving behind a cherished legacy that will continue to inspire his family and friends. 

Burton was a proud graduate of Laurel High School, Class of 1958, where he made lasting memories as a dedicated football player. Following high school, he served in the National Guard for nine years, demonstrating his commitment to his community and country. His early career included sales at Beacon Feed Mill of Laurel and Cellular Insulation in Parsonsburg. He went on to work in the poultry industry as a hatchery manager and flock supervisor before getting into carpentry/construction, which proved to be the career meant for him and his talents. With a remarkable eye for detail and a knack for building, he constructed numerous homes for his family and was known as a “jack of all trades.” Over the years, Burton shared his carpentry skills with various companies, including Willow Construction, Fluor-Daniel Construction at Dupont, and Purnell-Jarvis Construction, and he was a proud member of the Carpenters’ Union. His journey didn’t stop there; he dedicated his later years to maintenance work at the Stockley Center and Harrison House Nursing Home in Georgetown. He later worked with custodian services at Laurel Middle and High School. Finally, he retired as the shop manager at General Refrigeration in Delmar. It was a special time for him, as he had the joy of working alongside his children, Wendy and Wade. Burton was also deeply involved in his community, serving as a Deacon at the First Baptist Church of Delmar, where he also met and married his wife, Carrie Rhodes. Beyond his impressive work ethic, Burton had a genuine passion for life. He loved boating at Sandy Hill, camping in Pennsylvania, horseback riding, and sharing old cowboy movies with his family. He was also an avid deer hunter. His love for the outdoors was matched only by his commitment to the Laurel Saddle Friends, where he served as president for many years, forging friendships that would last a lifetime. His beloved horse, "Skeeter," was a faithful companion through countless adventures.

Burton is survived by his devoted wife, Carrie Mae Rhodes Whaley; his daughter, Wendy Whaley-Little (Russ); his son, Wade Whaley (Lisa); and his wonderful grandchildren: Jared Campbell (Cassie), Luke Campbell (Daisy), Megan Todd (Jake), Ashley Beaver (Matt), Jessica Wood (Josh), and Danielle Angello (AJ). He also leaves behind great-grandchildren, Kinsley Todd, Teagan, Landon and Lola Beaver, and Beau Angello; brother-in-law, Jack Rhodes; sisters-in-law, Catherine, Shirley and Beverly Rhodes; several nieces and nephews; and close friends, David and Linda Hastings, Linda Justice, Bobby and Sandy Dickerson, and Jim and Karin Adkins, as well as his Hardees coffee buddies, hunting buddies and his beloved church family. who will forever hold his memory in their hearts. Burton also leaves behind his cherished dog, Daisey, who brought him much joy and companionship.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Eva A. Whaley; his father and stepmother, Granville D. Whaley and Icie Hazel Whaley; and siblings, Ruth Lynch, Robert Whaley, and Joan Slaughter. 

A funeral service to honor Burton’s life will be held at First Baptist Church, 501 Bi-State Blvd, Delmar, Maryland on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 1:00 pm. A visitation for family and friends will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 200, Delmar, DE 19940 or to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.