of Lexa, AR
November 3, 1962 - August 12, 2018
Ricky Dale Wheeler was born November 3, 1962, in Helena, AR to Kenneth and Margie Wheeler. A lifelong resident of Phillips County, Ricky passed away on August 12, 2018, peacefully at his home surrounded by his family.
Ricky was baptized by W. A. Ginn at the age of 9 at Northside Baptist Church in Helena, AR.
Ricky is survived by his wife of 34 years, Althea Wheeler, of Oneida, AR, one daughter, Stephanie Wheeler, of West Helena, AR, two sons, Daniel James Martin Wheeler of Oneida, AR, and Ricky Dale Wheeler, Jr. (Brittany) of Oneida, AR, two grandsons, Remington Daniel Wheeler of West Helena and Hunter Ray Wheeler of Oneida, AR, his mother, Margie Wheeler of Poplar Grove, AR. A sister, Carol Johnson, of Lexa, AR, a cousin, Christy Henson of West Helena, who was raised by his parents, a brother Gary Wheeler (Laura) of Poplar Grove.
Ricky is also survived by a very dear friend, Lewis Hall, a special niece, Beth Williams (Ray) and their two daughters Amberley and Timberley of Lexa, AR.
Ricky also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Ricky is preceded in death by his father Kenneth Ray Wheeler, his grandmother Ruth Kimbrough, and grandparents Arnold and Alma Fryer.
Ricky worked at West Hornor Motor Company for 22 years as Master Auto Body Paint technician, Marvell Police Department for 4 years, West Helena Police Department for 2 years, a Phillips County Constable for 22 years, and a volunteer fireman at Barton Fire Department for 18 years. Ricky served on the board of the Arkansas Canstable's Association for many years.
He enjoyed coaching pee-wee football for several years. Ricky also loved hunting and fishing and being outdoors. He will truly be missed by everyone he impacted in the community.
Services for Ricky will be held at Twin City Church of Christ on Saturday, August 18, 2018. Visitation will be held from 12pm-1pm, with service following from 1pm-2pm. Bro. Fred Garrison and Mr. Curtis Pettie will be officiating services.
There will be a short graveside memorial at Central Cemetery immediately following the service at Twin City Church of Christ.
Pallbearers will be Mal Stokes, Arnie Fraze, Lionel Moss, Lee Williams, Bro. Kenneth Harmon, and Paul Lee Huey.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Lewis Hall, Barton Fire Department, Arkansas Constable Association members and the Marvell Police Department. Services will be led by Marvell Police Department.
The family asked in lieu of flowers, if you feel led please make a donation to the Barton Volunteer Fire Department in memory of Ricky Wheeler P.O. Box 119, Barton, AR 72312.
Services will be directed by Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, West Helena, (870) 572-2571.
Prayers for everyone. Just remember you have a special angel watching over you. My thoughts are with you. Teresa Ginn Wilson.
Althea and R.J. - So sorry about Rickey. His service today was wonderful. I know you were pleased with the large number of people who cared enough for Rickey and your family to come. I didn't get to sign the guest book but wanted you to know I was there and also at Central Cemetery.
Ricky was a peacemaker. I was happy when he became an Arkansas Constable like me. I enjoyed working with him all the years at West-Hornor Motor Co. He had to walk past my work stall on his way to the body shop. We would go on cold soft drinks breaks in the summer time. We were friends. We help each other. I asked him once if he ever regret becoming a police officer ? He told me , "Never did, I love helping people". And he sure did. WELL now he's helping the Lord. I am happy for Ricky even more now. He found Jesus about the same time Jesus found him. Praise the Lord !
Mrs. Margie, Althea and family,
Richard and I are so very sorry to hear of your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May our merciful Lord grant you each peace and comfort.
Mary Kay and Richard
Our thoughts and prayers for all of you. Ricky was a good man and will truly be missed.
Dear Margie and Family,
So sorry to hear of the passing of your loved one Rickey. I saw where Grandpa Ginn baptized him. My prayer is for the Lord to give you comfort, strength and peace to sustain you for the coming days, weeks, months and years.I pray for Him to keep His loving arms wrapped around each of you at this difficult time. God Bless ...Love Barbara
Althea and family, I am sorry to hear of the loss of your dear husband. I pray your memories and faith in the Lord will comfort you in this time grief.
Praying for comfort and strength Today and in days to come.
Althea and family,
I just wanted you all to know I am thinking of you. Ricky and I went to school with each other for many years. I will always remember him, he was always so nice . Praying for comfort for your family..
Carol, sorry for your family's loss. I will be praying for y'all🙏
Althea I am so sorry to hear about Ricky! I will be praying for you & your family! I Love You Jo