Don Michael Cheadle

Don Michael “Mike” Cheadle, proud Richmonder, devoted Virginia Cavaliers fan, sharp dresser, and enthusiastic enjoyer of life’s finer things, passed away in Richmond, Virginia.

Mike was born on March 27, 1950, and grew up in the Westover Hills neighborhood of Richmond, a place that shaped many of his best stories. He graduated from George Wythe High School.

He went on to attend the University of Virginia, where he was a member of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity, the Virginia Glee Club, and the Virginia Gentlemen. His time in Charlottesville left a lasting impression, and his loyalty to the Wahoos never faded. Whether it was basketball, football, or any team wearing orange and blue, Mike was cheering them on with enthusiasm and a loud “Wahoowa!”

In 1972, Mike went to work at Richmond Newspapers, an all time great life decision as it’s where he met Judy. Their relationship began with six years of friendship before Mike proposed, a foundation that would define the rest of their lives together. For 47 years of marriage, they shared the kind of partnership people hope for but rarely find: equal parts laughter, loyalty, and unwavering companionship. They traveled, explored new places, enjoyed great meals, and built a life rooted in friendship as much as love. To those who knew them, it was clear they were soulmates. And whenever they parted, whether for the day or just across the room, Mike would say, "Love you, Judy Cheadle."

Mike’s career took him through several chapters: forklift driver for Reynolds Metals, advertising salesman for the Richmond Times-Dispatch and the News Leader, realtor, and later a salesperson for Boomer Magazine. No matter the job, he was always happiest connecting with people and telling a good story.

Sports were one of Mike's favorite pastimes. He enjoyed basketball, tennis, and NASCAR, but cheering on UVA was in a league of its own.

Family meant everything to Mike. When his sons, Matt and Tim, were growing up, family camping trips were a regular adventure, filled with the kind of stories that would be retold for years. Summer vacations to the Outer Banks became another cherished tradition, where days were spent by the water and evenings were filled with laughter, good food, and the easy rhythm of family time together. No trip felt complete without a stop at Capt’n Franks for hot dogs, a meal that somehow tasted even better after a long day at the beach.

Music was always close by in Mike’s world. He loved many genres, especially doo-wop, Motown, and 90s country, the kind of soundtrack that could turn an ordinary afternoon into a good memory.

One of Mike’s greatest joys later in life was spending time with his grandchildren. Henry, Ruby, and Parker reflected so much of his spirit, humor, and curiosity, and he cherished every opportunity to be with them.

Mike showed his love in many ways: through his sarcasm, his easy smile, the firm handshake he gave when saying goodbye, and the warmth he shared with family and friends throughout his life. He always made folks feel welcome, his cheeks beaming with a joyful smile.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Cheadle; his sons, Tim Cheadle and his wife Faye, and Matt Cheadle and his wife Kristen; his grandchildren, Henry, Ruby, and Parker; and his sister-in-law, Evelyn Shelton Saunders; and his favorite nieces, Kristin Knight and Kathryn Seeterlin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Dorothy Cheadle, and by his beloved mother-in-law, Mary “Nanny” Shelton, who held a special place in his heart.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Autism Society of Central Virginia.

Mike will be remembered for his humor, his loyalty to the Wahoos, his love of music and good food, and the way he never left without saying, “Love you, Judy Cheadle.” Wahoowa.