David Little “Bo” Wheeler
David Little “Bo” Wheeler, passed peacefully into the presence of God on August 6, 2024, at home in Pikeville.
Bo was born the youngest of three sons on March 30, 1940, to the late J. David and Nannie Lou Little Wheeler at their home in Pikeville. Bo graduated from Bledsoe County High School and received his BS degree in Liberal Arts from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he was a member of the Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity and met his wife, Ann Rose.
An avid UT fan, Bo treasured his time on Rocky Top and remained a passionate supporter throughout his life. After working for a time in Knoxville, Bo returned home to operate McReynolds Oil Company, succeeding his uncle Sam McReynolds. There, he established Pikeville’s first manual and automatic car washes. Bo was a charter member and officer in the Bledsoe Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees).
In his younger years, Bo was appointed a Pikeville City Alderman and served as a Volunteer Fireman, a Cub Scout leader, and a 4-H Adult Leader. He was a lifetime member of the American Angus Association, a 50-year member of the Tennessee Angus Association, and a member of the Bledsoe and Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association. In 1973, he established Rivermont Angus Farms. While Bo was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1972, he still remained active for many years.
A member of the Church of Christ, Bo cherished his faith deeply, allowing it to guide him throughout his life.
Bo is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Ann; his son and daughter-in-law, Skip and Terri Wheeler of Knoxville; his daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Dr. Troy Layton of Huntsville, Alabama; his grandchildren, Phoebe Rose Wheeler Bates and her husband Chris, Lauren Alis Layton, Samuel Cole Wheeler, and Bradford Wheeler Layton; his brothers, Billy Frank Wheeler of Pikeville and Dr. Don Wheeler and his wife Kay of Huntsville, Alabama; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Gail and Bobby Beech of Belfast, Tennessee; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family is profoundly grateful for the dedicated caregivers who enabled Bo to remain at home on the farm that he loved as his health declined. We extend our gratitude to Thelma Blaylock, Shirley Farley, Dr. Scott Dibrell, and Amedysis Home Health and Hospice.
A graveside service was held Friday, August 9, at 11:30 a.m. CDT at Pikeville Cemetery with Rev. Greg Smart and Rev. Jim Douthat officiating. Burial was in Pikeville Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Bledsoe County 4-H Programs, P.O. Box 289, Pikeville, TN 37367.
Online condolences can be made at www.reedfamilyfh.com.
Arrangements are by Putnam-Reed Funeral Home, 1171 Main Street, Pikeville.
