William Thomas Wheelis

William Thomas “Tommy” Wheelis, born October 17, 1947, passed away February 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and a lifetime of memories well made.

Tommy was raised in Washington, Georgia, where he attended Washington-Wilkes High School and proudly graduated with the Class of 1965. He was the son of the late Nolan and Frances Wheelis and grew up rooted in family, community, and a strong sense of loyalty that stayed with him throughout his life.

Following high school, Tommy served his country in the United States Air Force. After his service, he attended Valdosta State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. It was there that he met the love of his life, Vicki McKelvey. The two were married on August 25, 1974, beginning a marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and shared pride in their family.

Tommy was a proud father to Kevin Thomas Wheelis and Ashley Lorene Wheelis. Kevin married Amy Smothers, and together they blessed Tommy with two grandsons, Eli Nolan Wheelis and Rhett Bailey Wheelis, who brought him endless joy. Once his grandsons entered the sports world, Tommy could always be found on the sidelines, cheering them on and offering his signature encouragement: “Drive the ball!”

He was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Wheelis Bishop. He is survived by his brother-in-law, Lt. Colonel (Ret.) Garland Bishop; nephew Barry Bishop and Barry’s wife, Rosemary.

Tommy valued lifelong friendships deeply and is also survived by his dear friends Larry and Bonnie Roberts, and their children Heather, Matt, and Blake, and their families, as well as numerous extended family members and friends who were blessed to know An avid and lifelong sports fan, Tommy’s heart belonged to the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, and he never missed a chance to ask, “What’s the good word?” He loved being involved in his children’s lives, serving as a coach for Ashley’s softball teams and Kevin’s basketball teams. In quieter moments, he enjoyed watching and spending time on the golf course.

Tommy will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, loyal friend, and steady presence whose love showed up in the stands, on the sidelines, and in everyday moments. His legacy lives through the family he cherished and the lives he touched.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 11 AM at Resthaven Cemetery in Washington, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Hopkins Funeral Home, Washington, Georgia was in charge of local arrangements.