Wheeler Dudley

Daniel Wheeler Dudley, born March 17, 1993, died suddenly Tuesday, June 13, 2017, while visiting his home in Fayetteville, NC.  Wheeler was a remarkably kind young man who had a keen sense of adventure, a deep love for his family and friends, and a love and appreciation for music and literature.  As a youngster Wheeler enjoyed soccer and swimming and participated in these from early childhood through high school.  He was also an avid Scout, participating in both Cub Scouts and completing his Eagle Scout award shortly before high school graduation.  In Scouts he enjoyed numerous camping trips with his father and Assistant Scoutmaster, Bill Dudley, and his brother Si. And, as all his friends and family know, his snowboarding trips with Ed, Stu, Jacob and David were always the highlight of his winter.

Wheeler had a unique curiosity and thirst for life and had the opportunity to embark on a variety of life's trails, which eventually led him to living in Middle Tennessee with his Uncle Buck and his family, with whom he always enjoyed a special bond.    He loved playing music and after long days at the Post Office would enjoy his time playing guitar on the front porch.  Over the years, he always enjoyed the moments when he and his brother Si played music together with his sisters Celia and Ruby nearby to listen.  He also much appreciated and enjoyed family camping trips and trips to the beach to see Mama C and Papa T.

Wheeler is survived by his parents, Bill and Suzanne Dudley, his brother Si Dudley, his sisters Celia and Ruby Dudley of Fayetteville, NC; grandparents Ted and Connie Rogers of Carolina Beach, NC; Great-great Aunt Helen Elliot, of Fayetteville, NC; and numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins.

A celebration of life is planned for 11 am, Saturday, June 17, 2017, at Highland Presbyterian Church with a reception following the service.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Highland Presbyterian Church Endowment, c/o Cumberland Community Foundation, PO Box 2345, Fayetteville, NC 28302 or online at www.cumberlandcf.org

As a final remembrance, perhaps it is appropriate to quote one of Wheeler's favorite authors of the past few months, "The free soul is rare, but you know it when you see it - basically because you feel good, very good, when you are near or with them"  (C. Brokowski).

Wheeler, we will miss you dearly, and pray that we will meet again along that heavenly path, and perhaps sit and fellowship for several long moments--you've so many songs yet to sing!

Services are entrusted to Sullivan’s Highland Funeral Service & Crematory.