We are deeply saddened to hear of the recent passing of Larry Whaley, former Osceola Clerk of the Court. Mr. Whaley dedicated his life to serving Osceola County as a County Commissioner for 18 years and as Clerk of the Court for 11 years from 1997-2008.
Mr. Whaley was a warm, welcoming and personable community leader, mentor, friend and Clerk. Tenured members of our office have fond memories of his time in office. They describe Mr. Whaley as someone who was “Well respected but also genuinely loved by all he met. He was someone who truly advocated for his staff and for Citizens of Osceola County.” Mr. Whaley positively impacted everyone he interacted with. Under his support and guidance, many of his staff enjoyed long careers with the Clerk’s office and others went on to serve the community in roles such as the Tax Collector. Staff members warmly recall celebrating milestones, holidays while laughing and working hard together alongside Mr. Whaley.
His passionate involvement and steadfast relationships in the community helped advance the Clerk’s office and the services provided. Mr. Whaley was a visionary as County Commissioner and in his leadership of the Clerk’s office. Throughout his career, he was instrumental in the development of Osceola County and was involved in the planning and constructing of the Osceola County Stadium, now Osceola Heritage Park, and the Jon B. Morgan Courthouse. During his administration at the Clerk’s office, Mr. Whaley implemented transformative digital services, taking the Clerk’s office from pen, paper, typewriters and tablets toward digital operations, using technology, computers and the internet. He implemented the first Osceola Clerk’s website and first digital imaging department. He was influential in executing the Comprehensive Case Information Service (CCIS) system with the Florida Clerks and Comptrollers Association (FCCC) which allowed communication between all 67 Clerk’s Offices to serve the Citizens more effectively and effectively using rapidly evolving systems.
We are grateful for his service to Osceola County and upholding the public trust as the Clerk of the Circuit Court. Larry Whaley will truly be missed. His legacy will live on in the hearts and halls of the Osceola County Clerk’s Office.