Richard Wheeler

Richard "Smiley" Wheeler (70) of Cleveland, TN passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on May 30, 2024. Richard was married to his devoted wife for 45 years. Together, they spent their life raising 3 children, following Christ, and spending time with family.

Richard is a Cleveland native, born in 1953 to Beatrice and the late Verlin Wheeler. He was a Bradley Central alumni and a very proud member of the Bradley Band Drumline. Richard enjoyed tending to the family farm and studying history; he was known for being an avid 'history buff'. He was a man of many talents; no project too big or too small, he could master it. When Richard wasn't raising goats or children, he enjoyed watching Westerns and relaxing to a 'pirate' movie. He was honored to serve as an elder, Bible study and Sunday School leader, and AV Tech at New Prospect Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Richard was a proud Printing Press Operator and retired in 2017 from Dockins Graphics, after devoting 44 years into the career of printing.

Carrying on the memory of Richard is his mother, Beatrice, his loving wife, Debra, sister, Valerie (Louis; Daughter Chrissy) Davidson, sons, Jacob (Ashleigh) Wheeler and Ethan (Heather) Wheeler, daughter, Rebekah (Cody) Greenwood, two grandchildren (Chloe and Owen Wheeler), Aunt Nita Tatham, and lifelong friend, Jerry Philpot; along with many loving family and friends.

Richard took great pride in leading his family and being the best husband, Dad, and PawPaw!

A celebration of Richard's life will be held on Wednesday June 5, 2024 at Companion Funeral & Cremation Service at "The Ridge" located at 2412 Georgetown Road in Cleveland, TN. Visitation will be held from 4pm-7pm, followed by a Memorial Service at 7pm. Officiating the service will be Don Akins, with family speakers.