Whatley Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Whatley come from? What does the surname Whatley mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Whatley and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Whatley Origin: What does the last name Whatley mean?
The surname Whatley originated in England around the early 16th century. The name is believed to have derived from an Old English term, although specific details are not available. Over the centuries, the Whatley surname remained closely associated with England, with records also showing its presence in the United States. By the 20th century, the surname Whatley saw significant growth in the United States and is now prominent in various countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and South Africa.
YourRoots data confirms the global spread of the Whatley surname, indicating its presence in multiple countries by the 20th century. While the exact meaning and origin of the Whatley surname are not provided, its historical ties to England and subsequent spread to other nations reflect a rich genealogical legacy. Today, individuals with the surname Whatley can be found in various parts of the world, showcasing the surname's enduring presence and diverse geographical distribution.
Whatley Last Name History: Where did the last name Whatley come from?
Origin of Whatley Surname: Where does the last name Whatley originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Whatley first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Whatley spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Whatley: What does the Whatley surname history look like in the early days?
The Whatley surname remained closely associated with England from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Whatley family records in the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Whatley surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Whatley surname grew significantly in the United States. The Whatley surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and South Africa.
Explore Whatley last name heritage and Whatley surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Whatley Surame?
Michael Whatley
Michael Whatley (born 1968 or 1969) is an American politician and lawyer currently serving as chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC). He previously held positions in the North Carolina Republican Party and various governmental roles, including working for President George W. Bush and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole. Whatley has been involved in Republican Party politics for decades and played a role in Donald Trump's presidential campaigns. He continues to be active in conservative politics and was reelected as chair of the RNC in January 2025.
Pez Whatley
Pezavan Whatley (January 10, 1951 – January 18, 2005) was an American professional wrestler known for his time with NWA Mid-America. Whatley was a popular wrestler in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee, winning titles and engaging in memorable feuds with the likes of Junkyard Dog and Legion Of Doom. He also competed in Florida Championship Wrestling and World Wrestling Federation, later transitioning to a backstage role with WCW. Whatley's legacy was honored with an induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2021. Despite health struggles, he left a lasting impact on the world of professional wrestling.
Fez Whatley
Todd Hillier (March 31, 1964 – August 14, 2021), known as Fez Marie Whatley, was an American comedian and radio personality famous for co-hosting The Ron and Fez Show with Ron Bennington from 1998 to 2015. Starting on a small Daytona Beach radio station, the duo moved to New York City and later to XM Satellite Radio. Whatley's openness about his sexuality and health struggles, including a heart attack and diabetes, endeared him to fans. Despite his retirement in 2015, Fez's impact on radio and the LGBTQ+ community remains memorable.
Ennis Whatley
Ennis Whatley (August 11, 1962) is a retired American professional basketball player known for his ten seasons in the NBA. The 6'3" guard played for notable teams like the Chicago Bulls and Washington Bullets, showcasing his skills on the court. Whatley also made a mark in the Philippine Basketball Association, helping the San Miguel Beermen achieve a Grand Slam victory. After his basketball career, he transitioned into public speaking, inspiring others with his experiences and knowledge.
Steve Whatley
Steven Rae "Steve" Whatley (11 Jul 1959 – 7 Nov 2005) was a British theatre actor, consumer expert, journalist, and television presenter known for his work on shopping channels like QVC and Ideal World. Dubbed 'Gadget Man' and 'Mr Diamonique', he gained fame for his humorous presenting style and attention to detail in product promotion. Whatley's career included stints on popular shows like This Morning and Watchdog, showcasing his expertise in consumer issues and gadgets. Despite controversies, including indecent assault charges, Whatley's passion for presenting and love for Disney memorabilia endeared him to audiences before his untimely death at age 46.
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