Collis Hyizher Wheeler

Collis Hyizher Wheeler completed his journey on earth June 23, 2016 at the age of 99. He was born April 29, 1917 to the late Thomas Milligan and Susie Hall Wheeler in Carnesville (Franklin County) Georgia. He attended Union Grove Church School and joined the Army Air Force, proudly serving his country from March 24, 1943 to February 19, 1946 receiving an honorable discharge.
In July 1951, he married the love of his life Edna Dorothy Gayles and to this union one child was born Beatrice Patricia Wheeler. They were married for 56 years.
He was a faithful member of St. Luke Baptist Church in Laurelton New York, serving as Trustee, Deacon, Chairman of the Deacon Board and Pastor’s Aide. 
Collis loved to sing and was a member of the Gospel Quintet of Jamaica, New York. He retired from Northrop Grumman in 1973 as an Aircraft Engineer Specialist Manager. He was a Jack of all Trades, Taxi Cab Driver and had a Love for Automobile Mechanics. Dapper Dresser many would say! The only thing he loved more than Automobiles was picking out his Sunday Best. 
In 2004, he relocated to Gainesville Ga to be close to his family. Shortly after that he joined the St. John Baptist Church, faithfully serving his God, Family, Church and Community. A Dedicated Deacon, Pastor Support Member, Bible Study and Sunday School Attendee, Deacon for the Hope Ministry, Men’s Fellowship Group. Deacon Wheeler was still taking out Communion on First Sundays. He was a member of the Male Choir, practicing for the last time on Monday June 20th 2016. Everyone loved to hear him sing, “I’M NOT THAT WAY ANYMORE”. He was named St John’s Distinguished Man of the Year Sunday June 12, 2016.
He was a member of the Sunshine Seniors where he enjoyed traveling, social outings, and giving back to the community.
He was preceded in death by his wife Edna, sisters: Ossie Jackson, Annie Mae Ayers, Alberta Merritt and Audrey Glenn, brothers: Rufus Wheeler, Tolman Wheeler and L.D. Wheeler
He leaves to cherish his memories daughter Beatrice Wheeler, granddaughter Michelle Apollon, Sister: Beatrice Hailey, Brother-in law: Edward Glenn Sr. and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and loyal friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, July 1, 2016 at St. John Baptist Church at 12:00 PM.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2016 at St. John Baptist Church from 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM. Professional Services Entrusted to Wimberly & Jackson Funeral Home.