Mary Ann Wheelis

Mary Ann Wheelis, beloved educator, devoted Bible school teacher, and cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home on April 9, 2025, at the age of 78.

Born on February 5, 1947, in Twin Creek, Arkansas, to Garfield and Elzora Brown, Mary grew up with a deep love for learning and a strong foundation of faith. She dedicated her life to education, spending more than 50 years in the classroom as an elementary school teacher. Her passion for teaching was unmatched, and she touched the lives of countless students with her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering patience.

Mary was a steady and reliable source of strength, support, and stability for her family, especially during difficult times.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. For decades, she taught Bible class and Vacation Bible School at Southwest Church of Christ. She tirelessly gave her time to the children of Southwest, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to the ministry.

She is survived by her husband, Bob Wheelis; her children, Janey (Jamey) McFadden, Jeremy Wheelis, and Josh Wheelis; her grandchildren, Jameson McFadden (Brittany), Joe McFadden (Lily), Jon Wheelis, and Levi Wheelis; and her great-grandchildren, Serenity McFadden, Shawn McFadden, and Dax McFadden. She is also survived by her sister, Imogene James, and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., with burial to follow the service at Oaklawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Southwest Church of Christ’s Children’s Ministry.
Mary’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, faith, and a good teacher’s love. She will be dearly missed.