The Horizon Elementary School community and the town of Inwood, West Virginia, are heartbroken over the passing of Todd Funkhouser, a beloved physical education teacher who touched the lives of countless students and colleagues.
Known for his compassion, humor, and dedication, Todd’s absence leaves a deep void among all who knew him. Todd taught PE at Horizon Elementary School in Cascades, Virginia, for five memorable years.
During his time there, he became much more than a teacher—he was a mentor, motivator, and friend to his students. His approach to education went far beyond physical activity; he emphasized teamwork, kindness, and self-belief, creating a classroom environment where every child felt seen and valued.
One former colleague expressed the grief shared by many: “I am devastated to learn of the passing of my dear friend and former colleague, Todd Funkhouser. He was amazing with the students. The Horizon families absolutely adored him. I have missed him every day since he left our school.”
Todd’s personality lit up every room he entered. Friends and coworkers describe him as fiercely loyal, always willing to lend a hand, and endlessly funny. He had a knack for saying the right thing—sometimes the inappropriately right thing—just when people needed a laugh.
His humor and honesty brought his peers closer together and made even the toughest school days lighter. The photo shared by colleagues from his final day at Horizon in June 2018 captures the spirit of the man they affectionately called part of “The Dream Team”—a teacher who poured his heart into his work and into the friendships that defined his career.
Beyond the classroom, Todd was known for his generosity and genuine heart. He cared deeply for others and always made time to show it. His loss serves as a poignant reminder, as one friend shared, to “never take life for granted and to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you.”
Todd Funkhouser will forever be remembered for his laughter, compassion, and the countless lives he changed through kindness and joy.