WHITELEY, Steven M. ("Stump"), 42, died suddenly on December 24, 2023, at his home in Willow Grove, PA. Survived by his daughter, Sierra; his brother, Jason Milam; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Predeceased by his mother, Helen Whiteley, and his much-loved Granny and Grandpop, who raised him. An African proverb says: "it takes a village to raise a child." Steven also had many villagers in his life along the way.

From the time he was a little boy, music was his life. It calmed his soul. Steven could sit for hours listening with his headphones on, making up rap lyrics and new beats. CHAOS, as he is known in the rap music world, talked as fast as he sang, and repeated himself repeatedly!

Steven and his brother Jason grew-up in Southwest Philadelphia surrounded by their "homies"–half of whom were their cousins! He attended St. Clement's Catholic School, Pepper, and Bartram High School. Just before his 21st birthday, his daughter Sierra was born. Steven strived to be a better dad – to give more, do more, be more, for his daughter. Sierra gave him the courage to overcome obstacles and was always close to his heart.

Steven liked his work as a commercial painter, and more recently doing security work. He was so happy and proud of his accomplishments – new job, new car, and new apartment - hanging with his brother, Christmas shopping, loving life. As his Granny always said: "God works in mysterious ways and we just have to have faith." Fly high with the angels, Steven. Gone too soon – never forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to services at Burns Funeral Home, 9708 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19114, on Saturday, December 30, 2023, from 2:00-4:30 PM. Burial will be private.