The Horizon Elementary School community in Cascades, Virginia, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of former physical education teacher Todd Funkhouser of Inwood, West Virginia, whose passing has left a deep void in the hearts of students, staff, and friends alike.
Known for his humor, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his students, Todd made an enduring impact during his years at Horizon Elementary, where he taught PE for five remarkable years.
News of his passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and remembrance from colleagues and friends who recall the joy and energy he brought to every classroom and every child he taught. One former colleague expressed the devastation felt by many, writing:
“I am devastated to learn of the passing of my dear friend and former colleague Todd Funkhouser. He taught PE at Horizon for 5 years. He was a dear friend who would drop everything to help someone in need. He was amazing with the students. The Horizon families absolutely adored him. I have missed him every day since he left our school. He was such an amazing teammate and funny as hell. You could always count on him to speak his mind and say something inappropriate at the perfect, inappropriate time. Never take life for granted. Tell your loved ones just how much they mean to you and spend time with them. This picture is from his last day of school at Horizon on June 13, 2018. As he called us, ‘The dream team!’”
These words paint a vivid picture of the man Todd was—an educator who not only taught but inspired, a friend who not only cared but showed up, and a human being who lived life with humor, honesty, and heart.
At Horizon Elementary, Todd’s classes were a favorite among students. His unique ability to connect with children of all ages made his PE sessions not only fun but deeply impactful. He had a gift for making even the most reluctant student feel included and confident.
To Todd, physical education was more than just sports and exercise—it was about building teamwork, discipline, and lifelong habits of wellness. His classroom was a place of laughter, encouragement, and learning.
Outside of teaching, Todd was known for his warmth and wit. Colleagues remember him as the kind of teammate everyone wanted by their side—someone who could lift spirits on even the toughest days.
His sense of humor was legendary, often bringing laughter to the teachers’ lounge and joy to those who worked with him. Beneath that humor, however, was a man with a big heart—always willing to lend a hand, listen to a friend, or offer a word of encouragement.
Todd’s passing is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. His friends and loved ones continue to honor his memory by carrying forward his lessons of compassion, laughter, and authenticity.
