William "Donnie" Wheeler

William “Donnie” Wheeler, 76, entered into his eternal rest on August 22, 2025.

Born on October 15, 1948, Donnie lived a life marked by joy, connection, and faith. An extrovert by nature, he never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel like a friend. Known for his wit and charm, people often said he could “sell ice to an Eskimo.”

Donnie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved tending to his garden, horses, and spending time outdoors. Above all, his heart belonged to his family. He cherished every moment with his grandchildren, and some of his happiest times were spent watching them play ball, cheering them on with pride and delight.

A man of deep faith, Donnie devoted much of his life to outreach ministries, sharing the love of Christ with as many people as he could. His mission was to serve, to reach hearts, and to remind others of God’s grace and goodness.

Donnie’s legacy is one of laughter, love, and unwavering faith. He will be remembered as a devoted family man, a man of God, and a friend to all who knew him.

Visitation: will begin on Monday, August 25, 2025 from 5 – 9 PM, and will continue on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 from 10:00 AM – until time of service.

Funeral Service: will begin at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 from the Chapel of Spann Funeral Home with Pastor Jamie Grisham officiating.

Interment: will follow at Dickson County Memorial Gardens

In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial donations be made to Compassion Church – Dickson in memory of Donnie.

Survived by:

Wife of 53 years:

Carolyn Faye Wheeler of Dickson, TN

Children:

Barry Downs (Janet) of McEwen, TN

Brad Downs (Chelsea) of Cookeville, TN

Stephanie Hartsook of Burns, TN

David Wheeler (Julie) of Mt. Juliet, TN

Michelle Culbreth (Wayne) of Germantown, TN

Sister:

Nancy Wheeler of Waverly, TN

Grandchildren:

Amelia Darden (Terrence), Jake Downs (Tashana), Jessica Garrett (Matthew), Logan Downs (Ashley), Madeline Culbreth, Eli Culbreth, Bentley Culbreth, Trey Hartsook (Dixie), Whitney Wheeler, Abby Wheeler, Mallary Maynard, and Carson Downs.

Great Grandchildren:

Laila, Ace, Lainey, Isaac, Noah, Hannah, Wyatt, Graham, Zeke, Isaiah, and Isaac

Preceded in death by:

Parents: Eldon and Lorene (Atchison) Wheeler

Arrangements by Spann Funeral Home & Cremation Services (615) 446-1123