Phil Wheatley

Phillip "Phil" Allen Wheatley, 76, of Jonesboro, passed from this life on Saturday, July 26, 2025. He was born on November 5, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late James and Drucella Wheatley.

A proud veteran, Phil served his country in the United States Marine Corps, where he was awarded the Purple Heart and served honorably as a member of the military police.

Phil enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—spending time in front of the TV watching Gunsmoke, The Price is Right, and boxing. He was a loyal football fan, cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs until recently switching his allegiance to the Philadelphia Eagles. He also enjoyed baseball, both as a fan and a former player in his younger years. One of his favorite pastimes was scratching off lottery tickets, a guilty pleasure that brought him many small joys. Above all, Phil cherished being with his family and loved attending celebrations and gatherings where he could be surrounded by those he loved most.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronald, James, Earnest, and Dell; and sisters, Delores, Vivian, Joyce, and Patricia.

Phil is survived by his daughters, Joyce Jones (Montez), Julia Washington (Michael), and Chandra Wheatley; his son, Marshall James; his brother, Michael Wheatley (Terrie); his sister, Marion Lee; grandchildren, Maurice, Jabari, and Lanisha (Bryan); and three beloved great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind Crescena Williams & Family that was his extended family here in Arkansas and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Ray and Terri Coleman who went above and beyond for Phil as if they were his own blood.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, August 8th at the Courtyard Marriott on Johnson. Flowers may be sent to Emerson Funeral Home prior to the Celebration of Life.