David Thomas (Tommy) Wheeler, 78, passed away peacefully in the early morning of January, 13, 2026.

A lifelong lover of racing, Tommy approached life with energy, adventure, and heart. Now, the checkered flag has waved - he has finished his race.

Born and raised in Buchanan, Virginia, on April 20, 1947, Tommy was a steadfast husband, devoted father, and adoring grandfather. He was known by many as the go-to mechanic - the one who could diagnose and fix just about anything with an engine. If it had wheels, chances are Tommy had tinkered with it, raced it, or was already figuring out how to make it run better. His mechanical aptitude was remarkable, but it was his curiosity and determination that truly set him apart.

Tommy loved the outdoors and lived life at full throttle. He found joy in tending his garden, hiking, trips to the beach, and giving back through litter pick-up efforts. Known for his mischievous sense of humor and signature sneaky grin, those closest to him caught fleeting glimpses of it even as his health declined.

He was preceded in death by Howard and Danie Wheeler; sister, Martha Snuffer; brothers, Lynwood Wheeler, Curtis Wheeler, and Mike Wheeler; and brothers-in-law, Punk Broughman and Dickie Montgomery.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Vicky Wheeler; daughter, Amy Wheeler of Winchester; son-in-law, David Loughran; and grandson, Keegan, who will forever carry his spirit forward. He is also survived by his brother, Bob (Carla) Wheeler of Salem, Oregon; brother-in-law, John (Carolyn) Montgomery of Salem, Virginia; sisters-in-law, Sylvia (Willard) Flora, Phyllis (Warren) Wertz of Roanoke, and Kay Broughman of Buchanan; and numerous nieces and nephews. Special friends include Becky and Billy Becky Booze, Phyllis and Randy Kingery, and Hedda and Ken St. Clair.