Obituary of James R. Wheeler

James Robert Wheeler born January 27, 1937 in Westwood, KY, passed away of natural causes at his home in Union KY on February 18, 2021.   He was preceded in death by his wife Shelby Jean Wheeler and his grandson Jeremy Robert Kirn.  He is survived by his two daughters Tammy Nelson of Ft. Wright, KY and Melissa Bradley (Shawn Bradley) of Union, KY and grandchildren Luke and Amber Smith and his brother Melvin Wheeler (Linda Wheeler) of Rio Grande Ohio.  He and Shelby were married for 64 years, his wife and family were the center of his life. He lived most of his life in Dry Ridge, KY where he enjoyed being in the outdoors hunting, fishing, riding his quad and piddling around in his barn.  Everybody in town knew him and he never met a stranger and if given the chance, he would talk your ear off.  He was the example of love, compassion, and integrity. He is and will always be deeply missed.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.  A gathering of friends and family will be held on February 27, 2021 from 1:00pm-3:00pm at Chambers & Grubbs Funeral Home at 8461 Dixie Hwy, Florence, KY  41042.  Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, face masks are required, social distancing is encouraged, and 50% capacity will be limited at the funeral home.