Martha Ann Wheeler

Martha Ann Melton Wheeler, 78, of Rome, GA, passed away September 26, 2017, following a brief illness. Martha Ann was born November 23, 1938 in Macon, Georgia to Lydia Laney and Walter Thomas Melton. She was a 1956 graduate of A.L. Miller High School in Macon and attended South Georgia College where she met her husband of many years, the late Charles Wheeler.

Martha Ann retired from the Kroger Corporation in 2000. Prior to her retirement she worked at the Kroger division office in Atlanta, Georgia and for many years at the Kroger distribution center offices in Irving, Texas. After retirement, she moved to Rome and was a docent at the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville and later volunteered at Floyd Medical Center. In recent years she attained semi-notoriety as “Fruity Fran” when niece Stacy Brown named a chicken salad flavor in her honor at The Chicken Salad Chick.

Martha Ann was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her daughter, Jan Wheeler of Ellijay, son, Kelly Wheeler of Rome, granddaughter, Natalie Wheeler of Marshville, North Carolina, brothers and sisters: Lee and Cecil Pinson of Lizella, Tom and Cheryl Melton of Rome, Kay and Mickie Barberich of Macon, and Dr. Howard and Nancy Melton of Moultrie, and many cherished nieces and nephews. Martha Ann leaves behind many beloved friends in Georgia and in Texas.

Martha Ann was a proud and loving mother, doting sister and loyal friend. She was a vibrant personality who loved to dance, travel, entertain, cook, read and spend time with family and friends. All those who knew and loved her will miss her generous spirit, sound advice, sense of fun and ready laugh.

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no funeral service. The family will host a memorial/party at later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Shriners Children’s Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.