Raphael "Stormy" Joseph Whelan

On June 3, 2025, Stormy Whelan closed the final chapter of his very unique adventure in life. In true Stormy fashion, he weighed all the pros and cons, did his “Ben Franklin Close” and determined how best to end the story on his terms.

Raphael Joseph Whelan started out in Louisville on February 9, 1954, though he promptly was renamed Stormy, to whom he was known by everyone except the nuns and the IRS. Stormy got his name from his father’s best friend, a pacifist in the Coast Guard in WWII who lost his life on the sea.

Stormy was the third of 5 children of Raphael Whelan and Elaine Wick Whelan. He is survived by 2 loving sisters Patti Whelan and Karen Edds (Jimmy), nieces and nephews, and his partner of the last 12 years, Joy Willig. Two loved siblings, Mike and Kathy and his parents predeceased him.

Stormy was a seeker of justice. He carried the Uniform Military Code of Justice (UMCJ) in his pocket while serving at Fort Hood as a paymaster during the Vietnam era. He was a lifelong learner who loved numbers. He had an advanced degree in 4th grade math and his affinity for numbers drew him to professional opportunities in computer programming, but also to be an avid and much relied upon horse racing handicapper. His extensive, detailed, and humorous annual Kentucky Derby Analyses were much anticipated during the Derby season. In his retirement gig as a New Orleans Tour Guide, he and Joy explored the nooks and crannies of this quirky city.

Because Stormy connected with people from all strata of society and backgrounds, he was loved by all who he encountered as he moved through his daily routines from the coffee shop to the C suite.

Stormy was the music in Joy’s life. He lived for Jazzfest each year, his brass pass was prized. He knew music trivia and loved Blues and Rock and Roll. Combining his wit and his humor with his love of music, he often quoted the song lyrics from John Diffie, “Prop me up beside the jukebox (if I die)".

Stormy truly earned a PhD in life through his love of learning, detailed research on every topic, and his willingness to share that info with others.

We celebrate his life as he would have wanted.

In lieu of flowers he know he would love you to support local restaurants, coffee shops, musicians, and organizations that encourage young people to pursue music in their lives.