James "Jimmy" Wheeler

Jimmy was born September 1, 1947 in Boynton, Oklahoma to parents Edward Huston Wheeler and wife Florine Epperson Wheeler. He graduated from La Porte High School, Class of 1966. He became certified as a welder at Lee College in Baytown.

Jimmy served three years in the United States Army from 1966-1969. He was stationed in Ethiopia, Africa for the Ethiopia United States Mapping Mission, Aviation section. During his tenure, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, and was cited as a military Rifle Expert.

Upon his return he married Darla McKey Wheeler and spent many years raising their family, living and working in the construction industry in the La Porte area. He was a Superintendent at The City of Seabrook for the past 20 years.

Throughout his entire life he was known as a hard worker. He stayed busy every day and enjoyed both his work and home life, whether it was landscaping, gardening, working on cars or building his barbecue pits. He always kept his bird hunting and fishing licenses up to date, so any time his friends called, he was ready to pack up and take a trip. Jimmy was always available to his friends and neighbors at any time. During his life, he ran a marathon, participated in many fun runs, went on walks around the neighborhood often, and still lifted weights to stay in shape. He always enjoyed laughing and having fun, and more importantly loving life.

Jimmy is lovingly remembered by his wife Darla; their children, son Kerry Wheeler and daughter Misty and her husband Charles Merdian; His grandchildren Kaz and Jagger Wheeler and fiancée Claire Cegelski, and Sophia, Emma, and James Merdian; his mother Florine Wheeler; his sister Marie and husband Clyde Ellison; sister in law Barbara Angel, niece Wendy and husband Shane Reilly, nephews Kaleb and Kory Quiner, son Baylin and fiancée Layna Bishop, along with numerous treasured family and friends.

Jimmy is preceded in death by his father Edward Huston Wheeler.

A visitation will be held Saturday June 10 from 9:30-11:00 am with a Celebration of James' Life starting at 11 am at First Baptist Church of La Porte, 310 S Broadway Street.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to First Baptist Church of La Porte in James' memory.