Richard Smith Whaley (July 15, 1874 – November 8, 1951) was a United States representative from South Carolina and Chief Justice of the Court of Claims.

Born on July 15, 1874, in Charleston, South Carolina, Whaley attended the Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia.

[1][2] In 1896, Whaley served as the first head coach of the University of South Carolina football team.

His service terminated on June 27, 1939, due to his elevation to Chief Justice of the same court.

[2] Whaley was nominated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on June 23, 1939, to the Chief Justice seat on the Court of Claims (United States Court of Claims from June 25, 1948) vacated by Chief Justice Fenton W. Booth.