HARVEY WHEELER

Harvey Ross Wheeler, age 1, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Nov. 21, 2025.

Harvey was born on Oct. 23, 2024, at the University of Virginia Medical Center. His time on Earth was far too short, but the love he brought into the world will last a lifetime. Despite all he endured, he was a remarkably happy little boy. He smiled often — bright, warm smiles that lit up his room and lifted the hearts of everyone who visited him. To all who walked into his room, he was a source of joy, a reminder of resilience and a precious soul who brought people together.

He is survived by his parents, Tanner and Jordan; his siblings, Ivy and Henry; grandparents, Sue Berkstresser, Anna and Keith Burnett, and Kent and Donna Wheeler; great-grandparents, Virginia Vess, Kay Sholes and Walter and Donna Wheeler; aunt and uncle, Kevin and Bobbie Lynn Berkstresser; uncle, Colston Wheeler; and special cousins, Kamren and Jackson Berkstresser. He is also remembered by many special friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Jerry Sholes, and his maternal grandfather, Bobby “Pap” Berkstresser, who, without a doubt, was waiting to greet him with open arms and bounce him on his knee.

Harvey’s journey was supported by extraordinary hands and compassionate hearts, and the family is profoundly grateful to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and UVA Children’s teams, who cared for him as if he were their own. Their kindness, dedication and love surrounded him every day of his life. The family extends their deepest gratitude to Emily Foresman, NP; Dr. Noreen Crain; Ashton Street, RN; and Regan Adkins, RT, who stood with them in their son’s final moments.  Also, they extend their deepest appreciation and heartfelt thanks to Anna Smith, RN, Harvey’s primary NICU nurse.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to UVA Health Children’s Hospital at getinvolved.uvahealth.org/HarveyWheeler or to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) in Harvey’s name.

Services and burial will be private.

Though Harvey’s story was brief, he showed us how love can thrive in the hardest places, how faith can sustain us when answers are few, and how a single, precious life can shine with purpose. His journey reminded us to notice miracles in small moments and to trust that God works through even the most delicate lives. Even in his passing, Harvey continued to share God’s love by offering the precious gift of organ donation so that other children might have hope and healing. His bright spirit will live on in heaven and in our hearts forever.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home and Crematory.