Leonard Wheeler Jr.

Leonard Garland Wheeler Jr., 73, of Colonial Heights, passed away Friday, March 11, 2022. He was born in Glade Spring, Virginia on October 26, 1948 to the late Betty Girlene Wheeler and Leonard Garland Wheeler Sr. Mr. Wheeler served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam war, and served as an operator for ICI/Dupont Teijin for 35 years. He was fortunate enough to have married his high school sweetheart, Julia Porter Wheeler, the love of his life. They were lifelong soulmates. They enjoyed many adventures together, including trips out west to sightsee. He loved riding motorcycles, racing cars and go karts, and treasure hunting at Goodwill. More than anything, he cherished the time that he spent with his family. He was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Drumheller; nephew, Dustin Drumheller; and great-grandchild, Oaklen Reed. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Julia “Judy” Porter Wheeler; children, Amy Wheeler Reed and Adam Paul Wheeler (Tyracia); grandchildren, Brandon Reed, Marial Reed, and Levi Wheeler; great-grandchildren, Taigen Reed, and Vayla, Von, and Violet Reed (triplets); niece Crystal Drumheller; nephews, Christopher and Phillip Drumheller; and many loved extended family members. All services will remain private. Funeral arrangements made by the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society (cancer.org/donate). Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.