Onnie Lavelle “O.L.” Wheeler Jr.

Onnie Lavelle “O.L.” Wheeler Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully passed away on the evening of April 19th, 2026, at Nacogdoches Medical Center, surrounded by the gentle embrace of his family and the compassionate care of the ICU staff. O.L. departed this world peacefully at the age of 78 leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. Born on January 28, 1948, in the charming town of Nacogdoches, Texas, O.L. was the cherished son of the late Onnie Lavelle Wheeler Sr. and Macil (Hooper) Wheeler. His early years were spent amidst the warm embrace of family and the rich tapestry of life in a small Texas community. O.L.'s life was forever enriched by the values imparted by his parents and his sister, Iwana (Wheeler) Hartt, who predeceased him and surviving sister, Billie Wheeler. On December 19th, 1970, O.L. embarked on a lifelong journey with his beloved wife, Margarette Anne (Porter) Wheeler, as they exchanged vows at Calvary Baptist Church in Nacogdoches. Together, they crafted a life filled with love and devotion, raising two sons, Chaney Heath Wheeler and Christopher Curtis Wheeler. His niece and chosen daughter Kathey (Smith) Sitton. Christopher, along with his wife Paula (Norred) Wheeler, blessed O.L. with two cherished grandchildren, Arianna and Sean Wheeler, who were the light of his later years. Extended family include brother in laws Bob Porter, Kyle Porter, Matt Porter, and Glynn Hartt and sister in law Bettie (Porter) Smith. O.L. proudly served his country as a Survival Instructor in the United States Air Force from 1968 to 1972, a testament to his dedication and resilience. His career path led him through various manufacturing and factory roles, where he often held supervisory positions, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues for his stoic determination and hardworking spirit. After his service for the US military he served his local community coaching young men for pony league baseball in Woden, Texas for 17 years. A man of deep faith, O.L. was a faithful member of the New Life Christian Fellowship in Nacogdoches for over two decades. His voice, lifted in song within the church, was a source of inspiration and joy to those who worshipped alongside him. O.L.'s love for the great outdoors was evident in his fondness for camping, hunting, and fishing, pursuits that brought him peace and a profound connection to nature. He loved sports, especially baseball and football. O.L. will be remembered for his quick wit, his stoic yet gentle demeanor, and the warmth he shared with all who knew him. His legacy will continue to live on through the laughter of his grandchildren and the countless lives he touched. Viewing will be on April 22, 2026 at 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Funeral service to honor and celebrate O.L.'s life will be held on April 23, 2026, at 2:00 PM. Both viewing and funeral service will be at New Life Christian Fellowship, located at 4111 E Star Ave, Nacogdoches, TX 75965. Family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by O.L. are warmly invited to join in remembrance and reflection. Eulogy by Pastor Dennis White and service will be officiated by beloved Pastor and long time friend, Dale Morton. Pallbearers are: Derek Yarbrough, Nick Ontiveros, Kirk Hooper, Bryan Jimmerson, Glenn Nelson, and Bobby Ivory. The Wheeler family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the ICU staff at Nacogdoches Medical Center for their compassion and care during O.L.'s final moments. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests that donations be made in O.L.'s memory to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a charity supporting US military veterans continuing O.L.'s legacy of service and care for others. May O.L.'s soul rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love of those who have gone before him, and may his memory be a guiding light to all, including many friends, nieces, nephews and church members who continue to love him.