LCpl Andrew James Whalen of Gardendale, Alabama, passed away unexpectedly on June 10, 2023. He was only 22 years old. His family is deeply saddened by his sudden death. Andrew was born on September 23, 2000.
Andrew is survived by his mother, Rachel Michele Sutherland (Shawn), and his father, James Sidney Whalen (Rian). He will also be forever adored and remembered by his siblings; Savannah Whalen, Jonathan Whalen, Addie Whalen, and Haley Sutherland. Andrew is survived by loving grandparents James and Linda Smith, Mary Whalen, Lynda Hicks, and William and Cheryl Galtney. Andrew is also survived by many uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends who loved him and will remember his impact on their lives.
Andrew was preceded in death by beloved grandfathers Gene Whalen and Lacy Hicks.
Andrew graduated from Gardendale High School in 2019. Andrew was an excellent student and football player at GHS. After working in Alabama and Texas for a year or so, Andrew made the courageous decision to join the United States Marine Corps. With his proud family looking on, Andrew graduated from USMC basic training on Parris Island, SC, on October 28, 2021. Andrew loved being a Marine. He loved the work, the training, and the brotherhood with his fellow soldiers, and he was proud to have the opportunity to serve his country. After completing his training in technical school, Andrew joined Company E, 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve in Bessemer.
While serving in the Marine Forces Reserves, Andrew attended Wallace State to earn his associate in applied science degree for HVAC and worked at Jeffcoat and Associates. Andrew liked and took to his work in HVAC well. He was a hard worker and a fast learner and appreciated all he learned from his supervisors and co-workers while on the job. Andrew was always so thankful to all those who took the time to teach him and share their time and talents with him.
Andrew was a member of Westside Community Church in Warrior and, in his free time, enjoyed bowling with Jon and Savannah, hanging out with friends, going to the lake to fish, and vacationing at the beach. He was an avid Alabama football fan and loved attending games with his family and friends. Andrew liked working with his hands and was always the first to volunteer to help those who needed assistance with their yard work, housework, or any project.
Andrew had so much goodness in him. He cared for others before himself. He had the capacity to bring happiness and love to those around him. He had a bright future and this world is a darker, lesser place without him.
Funeral services will be held Friday, June 16, 2023, at 2:00 PM at New Horizon Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Mark Adams officiating. Micah Marcum will give the eulogy. The family will receive friends for visitation from Noon until service time. Burial will follow at Shanghai Cemetery with full military honors.
New Horizon is located at 5203 Hollis Goodwin Road in Dora, AL. The cemetery is located at 6915 Sharon Blvd. in Quinton, AL. New Horizon Funeral Home is directing.
