Leroy Wheaton

Leroy Wheaton obituary

Leroy Wheaton

Upcoming Events

Nov

23

Memorial service

2:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Franklin & Downs Funeral Home - McHenry Chapel

1050 McHenry Ave, Modesto, CA 95350

Send Flowers

Only 3 days left for delivery to next service.

Leroy Wheaton Obituary

Visit the Franklin & Downs Funeral Home McHenry Chapel website to view the full obituary.
Leroy Wheaton Sr, a lifelong resident of Modesto California, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on May 18, 1941, in Modesto Dad spent his entire life in the community, and served with quiet strength and unwavering generosity.

A graduate of Modesto High School, Leroy went on to build a career as a heavy equipment operator. His work was marked by dedication and skill, traits that reflected his deep sense of responsibility and pride in a job well done. Whether operating machinery or lending a hand to someone in need, Dad approached every task with determination and heart

Dad was known for his love of the outdoors and simple pleasures, He found joy in fishing along quiet banks of the river, building birdhouses with care and precision, exploring the world through metal detecting and collecting rocks that caught his eye, These hobbies were more than pastimes- they were expressions of his curiosity, craftmanship, and appreciation for natures quiet wonders.

Family was central to Dad's life. He shared many years with his beloved wife Wanda until her passing. together they built a family rooted in love and resilience. Dad is remembered with deep affection by his children, Wanda, Carlene and son in law Mark Lee, Leroy Jr and daughter in law Vickie Wheaton

His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Lyle Gist, Loren Gist, Bethany Elliott, Jessica Wheaton, Leroy Wheaton III and Great-Grandchildren Aiden Gist and Benjamin Gist. He also leaves behind Granddaughter in Law Angela Wheaton

Dad was proceeded in death by his parents, Charles Eugene and Bridget Marie Hall, his sister Barbara Dias and brother Leonard Wheaton and his cherished wife Wanda Mae

Those who knew dad will remember him as someone who never failed to help others as best he could. Life threw many challenges his way, but he met them all with grit, humor, and an open heart. He shared what he had freely - whether it was a story that made you laugh or a gentle jab meant to stir up Mom, just enough to get her going.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a reminder of a life lived with generosity, humor and quiet strength.
Franklin & Downs Funeral Home McHenry Chapel

1050 McHenry Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350

Make a Donation
in Leroy Wheaton's name

Plan and Price a Funeral

Create a funeral plan and price estimate in less than 5 minutes.

How to support Leroy's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Leroy Wheaton's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Upcoming Events

Nov

23

Memorial service

2:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Franklin & Downs Funeral Home - McHenry Chapel

1050 McHenry Ave, Modesto, CA 95350

Send Flowers

Only 3 days left for delivery to next service.

Plan and Price a Funeral

Create a funeral plan and price estimate in less than 5 minutes.