John Wheeler Vanhoose, Sr. "JW"

John Wheeler Vanhoose, Sr. "JW" was born on December 15, 1942 in Hardin County, Tennessee, the son of the late John Thomas and Edna Earl Falls Vanhoose.

On June 20, 1969, he was united in marriage to Sue Rich, who survives.

JW worked as a heavy equipment operator for 31 years for Packaging Corporation of America in Counce, Tennessee and for Wayne County Rock. He enjoyed drawing and was known for baking his delicious tea cakes. He also enjoyed woodworking and crafted everything from cedar chests to cradles. Mr. Vanhoose was a member of Turkey Creek Baptist Church in Savannah, Tennessee.

John Wheeler Vanhoose, Sr. "JW" departed this life on January 30, 2026 in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 83 years, 1 month, and 15 days.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sue Vanhoose; son, John Wheeler Vanhoose, Jr. (Lisa); daughter, Susan Carothers (Chris); sisters, Kathy Baugus and Jane Logan; and grandchildren, John Andrew Vanhoose, Audrey Vanhoose, and Jilly Carothers.

In addition to his parents, JW was preceded in death by his brothers, Tommy Vanhoose and Glenn Vanhoose; sister, Vera Vanhoose; an infant sister; and grandchild, Soren Carothers.

There will be a graveside service held at a later date.