Deborah Gaye Wheeling

Deborah Gaye “Debbie” Wheeling passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 15, 2024. She was born February 5, 1950, the fourth of five children born to Fred and Catherine Wheeling. Debbie is preceded in death by her beloved parents and friend, Karen Azar, as well as by her brothers, Dennis (Gussie) Wheeling, Daniel Wheeling, and sister, Dona Wheeling Smith.

Debbie is survived by her devoted brother, Duane Wheeling and his wife, Katie, who took care of her in her later years. She is also survived by special sisters-in-law, Linda Wheeling and Jean Wheeling, both of Salem, as well as two generations of nieces and nephews.

Debbie was a 1968 graduate of Andrew Lewis High School and graduated from Radford College, today, Radford University. Her teaching career spanned from North Carolina to Andrew Lewis Middle school where she taught Physical Education and Special Education. She will be remembered as an enthusiastic, caring teacher and coach. Debbie loved being able to communicate with special needs students and other kids working through challenging situations.

A gifted, left-handed athlete, Debbie excelled in many sports in high school including volleyball, basketball, and was tennis doubles State Champion in 1968. She enjoyed golf, the New York Yankees, and Notre Dame football throughout her life.

Debbie had a life-long passion for animals and had many furry
companions throughout the years. Debbie served with Millie’s Ministries for end-of-life pets and their owners. She deeply understood how all creatures make the world a better and kinder place.

The family will welcome friends for a time of visitation on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., in the chapel of John M. Oakey and Son Funeral Home, Salem. A Celebration of Life will begin at 3:00 p.m. with the Rev. Dr. Jan Fuller officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Angels of Assisi at www.angelsofassisi.org.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.