Carl Franklin Drumheller
February 28, 1937 – April 27, 2022
Frank Drumheller passed away April 27, 2022 at Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg, Va. with his family by his side.
He was preceded in death by his parents Carl & Virgie Drumheller; and brother Charles Drumheller.
Frank was born February 28, 1937 in Augusta County, Va; where he lived out his childhood. Frank received his Batchers degree from Bridgewater College and Masters degree from the University of Virginia. He served in the Peace Corps for 2 years. He served as Director of Federal Programs in Louisa County, Va. and Albemarle County, Va., high school principal at Louisa County High School, then went on to serve as Director of Instruction / Assistant Superintendent for the Madison County school system where he retired in 1997. After retirement he served on the Louisa Town Council and one term as Mayor of the town of Louisa. Frank was a member of St. James Episcopal Church in Louisa. He served as Choir Director, Senior Warden, member of the Board of Trustees; along with other official offices of the church. His love for antique cars, particularly Studebakers; was well known throughout the community.
Frank is survived by his wife of 53 years Jackie; 3 children Vicky Dodson, Jay Dodson (Tracy), Wade Drumheller; 2 grandchildren Allyson McCormick (Joel), Jaimie Dodson; 2 Brothers Ray Drumheller (Mary Alice), Glenn Drumheller (Jane); 1 Sister-in-Law Ellen Drumheller; numerous nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held from 1:30pm to 2:30pm Saturday, May 14, 2022 at St James Episcopal Church. Memorial Service will be Saturday, May 14, 2022 at St. James Episcopal Church at 2:30pm; followed by a private interment at Hillcrest Cemetery. For anyone wishing to do so; flowers may be sent to Woodward Funeral Home.
Frank and I were in school together at New Hope Elementary , Wilson Memorial High and Bridgewater College. He was a good community member and a hard-working educator who always put his students first. Frank had a rough last several years but did not complain and retained his friendly demeanor along with his fine sense of humor. It was a pleasure to know his as a classmate and friend and I am sure he will be missed by his family and all who knew him. An intelligent and decent man who spent much of his life for others.
Fred Diehl, Charlottesville
Frank was our favorite tenor at St. James, who loved to sing God’s praises and “lift high the cross”. Frank was a dedicated community volunteer, and recruited Jim for Crimesolvers; his leadership enticed others to become active too. He was a kind, compassionate and fun-loving guy who always had a smile and a good story to share.
We send our sympathy, hugs and prayers to Jackie and his family. He will be missed, not only by his family, but also by all those who loved him as a friend.
Franklin and I grew up together in Hermitage Presbyterian Church and sang in the choir and were good friends. Franklin was a good person and will be missed.
Frank was a talented, kind, and wonderful man. He will be missed by all that knew him.
How sorry I am for your loss…Mr. Drumheller was my history and government teacher as well as guidance counselor at Wilson Memorial…..most of all he was my mentor. He required a great deal from you as a student but when you received a compliment from him you knew you had earned it! Through my years at Valley Vo-Tech. as an instructor when I hit a bump in the road I would say to myself, What would Mr. Drumheller do? I am so thankful for his guidance and the wonderful example he was for us. May God bless.
Frank was a wonderful first cousin to me and I was born on his birthday. I shall always remember him and his brothers’ musical talents. Their harmonies were great. He leaves another big loss to the family tree. I am so sorry that I am unable to attend his funeral as I am not a spring chicken either. Condolences to his family and cousins.
I am so sorry for the passing of Frank. My sincere condolences to the family and may you find comfort in this difficult time. I missed him coming to pick up trash along side the roadside here in Louisa. We used to josh and joke and I know he will be missed. May peace be with you all and God bless .
My sincerest condolences to the Drumheller, Dodson and McCormick families. May your loved one, Frank, rest in peace.
Mr. Drumheller was my principal when I went to Louisa County High School, and then he hired me for my job as a librarian in Madison County in 1977. He will always hold a special place in my heart.
We are praying for you Jackie and your family .
Frank was a dear friend from the Studebaker World, mostly The Studebaker Truck Farmers Group.
Great Man, we surely miss him.
Our thoughts and prayers to the Family.
May He Rest In Peace.
Jim & Judy Sinclair
Mr Drumheller was my teacher for fifth grade at New Hope Elementary School in Augusta County. He was loved and respected by all us ‘kids.’ I’m happy to see that he was so deeply involved in service in education throughout his career. My condolences to all his family.
Melinda and I knew Frank from several associations. . . loved his spirit, his humor, his generosity. He will be missed by many.
Mr. Drumheller was one of my favorite customers at work. He was so gentle, kind, and sweet. His smile would light up the room. So sorry to just learn of his passing. I am sure his passing has left a hole for many! I pray that his memory leaves everyone he touched with a smile like it has for me!
I am just learning of Frank’s passing at this late date. I attended Bridgewater College with him and we were roommates during his senior year and my junior year. I was not the elite student that Frank was but I credit him with inspiring me to be a bit more dedicated to my studies and not sure I would have graduated without his help. I also remember him having the lead part the drama “Lute Song”. And how can I forget the “dust up” that the two of us had with a bunch Churchville high school fellas after we started dating two cheer leaders from that school. Those were the days. Rest in peace my good friend.