Russell Wheeler, Sr.

   Russell Wheeler, Sr., 89, formerly of Edenton, NC, and more recently of the North Carolina State Veterans Home in Kinston, died there on Thursday, December 15, 2016.

   Mr. Wheeler was born in Chowan County on October 18, 1927, and was one of ten children born to the late Doppie and Lillie Wheeler. A retired clerk with Byrum Hardware Company, he was a member of Edenton Baptist Church and the Edward G. Bond Post #40 of the American Legion. Joining service at the age of 15, he was a Navy veteran of World War II, serving aboard the USS Hornet, and received the World War II Victory Medal, the Asiatic Pacific Medal with nine stars, and the Philippine Liberation Medal with two stars. After the war, he played minor league baseball in 1950-51 with the New Bern Bears of the Coastal Plains League.

   Surviving are his daughter, Jo Ann Wheeler of New Bern; his son, Rusty Wheeler and wife Elva of Tyner; a granddaughter, Jessica; and two great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his dear friends and caregivers while he lived in Edenton, Mary and Jerry Nichols; and his loving and caring companion while he lived at the NC State Veterans Home, Esther Ferris.  Mr. Wheeler also leaves many extended family members and friends whom he deeply cared for, and who will remember him fondly.

   Funeral services will be held Sunday at 2:00 p.m. in Edenton Baptist Church and will be conducted by his pastor, The Reverend David Brooks. Military honors, accorded by the US Navy, will be held in the church, and a private burial will follow in Beaver Hill Cemetery. Immediately following the church service, the family will receive friends at a reception in the social hall.

   In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Edenton Baptist Church, 200 S. Granville Street, Edenton, NC 27932.

   Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.