Stuart L. Wheeler, Longtime University of Richmond Classical Studies Professor, Local Citizen Boards Member, Dies
August 31, 2006
Stuart L. Wheeler of Richmond, a professor since 1967 and former chairman of classical studies at University of Richmond, died Aug. 25. He was 68.
In addition to his academic work in the classics, Wheeler was active in the improvement of neighborhood and local planning, serving on the city's Commission of Architectural Review from 1972-82, as a member and former president of the Church Hill Association, and more recently as a professor in the university's Urban Practice and Policy Program.
A native of Bedford, Va., where he graduated high school, Wheeler earned a bachelor's degree in ancient languages with a minor in history from The College of William and Mary and a master's in teaching classics from Vanderbilt University. He also performed two years of doctoral-level course work at The Johns Hopkins University.
Wheeler taught high school in York County, Va., before joining Richmond's faculty. He was also president of a local company, Distinctive Consignments Ltd., from 1980 until his death.
A former president and vice president of the Virginia Classical Association, he published numerous scholarly articles and produced two video programs, including one on Ti Ameny net--an Egyptian mummy Wheeler single-handedly saved from being discarded in the '70s. The mummy, a national sensation in the late 1800s, is now displayed in the university's Ancient World Gallery.
Private funeral arrangements are pending.
For comment about the life and contributions of Stuart L. Wheeler, please contact:
- Edwin Slipek, well-known architect in Richmond's Church Hill neighborhood (804-232-6100)
- Ron Smith, Richmond-area poet and English teacher at St. Christopher's School (804-282-2753
- Bob Drews, professor of classical studies emeritus of Vanderbilt University (office-- 615-343-4115; home--615-383-5791.