Rex L Wheeler

LEVEL PLAINS…Mr. Rex L. Wheeler (First Sergeant, United States Army, Retired), a resident of Level Plains, died late Thursday evening, August 28, 2025, at the home of his son. He was 87.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, September 12, 2025, at Glory to Him Fellowship Church in Ozark. Graveside services, with full military honors, will follow in Woodlawn Memory Gardens. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. Friday at the church.

Mr. Wheeler, born and raised in the quiet town of Alava, Oklahoma, was the beloved son of Ernest Wheeler and Virgie Withrow. From a young age, he carried a strong sense of duty and pride in his country. At just 17 years old, he made the courageous decision to join the United States Navy, where he served honorably for six years. His commitment to service didn’t end there—he later enlisted in the United States Army, dedicating over two decades of his life to protecting and serving others. His military career was marked by discipline, resilience, and a deep love for his fellow servicemen and women.

After retiring from the Army, Mr. Wheeler chose to settle in Alabama in 1989, where he began a new chapter of his life. Never one to sit still or stop learning, he enrolled in Wallace College and graduated from their Respiratory Therapy Program. He went on to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist, using his skills to help countless patients breathe easier and live better. Over the years, he worked at Dale Medical Center, Southeast Health, and Flowers Hospital, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and patients alike.

Even as he approached retirement, Mr. Wheeler remained deeply committed to sharing his knowledge and experience. He taught Respiratory Therapy, CPR, and life support, pouring his heart into preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. His students often spoke of his patience, his wisdom, and the way he made even the most complex lessons feel personal and meaningful.

Outside of work, Mr. Wheeler found spiritual strength and community as a member of Glory To Him Fellowship in Ozark. His faith was a guiding light in his life, and he cherished the fellowship and friendships he found there.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Leonard Wheeler, whom he loved dearly. Those who knew Mr. Wheeler will remember him not just for his accomplishments, but for his kindness, his quiet strength, and the way he made everyone around him feel seen and valued. He lived a life of service, compassion, and unwavering integrity—and leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.

Surviving relatives include his children, Rhonda Jo Wheeler Wainwright, Oklahoma, Rex L. Wheeler, Jr. (Janet), and Timmy D. Wheeler, all of Daleville; two brothers, Gary Wheeler (Sun), Ozark and Don Wheeler (Ruth Anne), Texas; grandchildren, Chelsea, Chris, Dakota, Darren, and Cheyenne; great-grandson, Cameron; nieces, nephews, and cousins.