James Edward Wheeler

James Edward Wheeler of the Beautiful Home Community (formerly Bugtussle) passed away on
Monday, July 14th, 2025 at home surrounded by his friends and family. James was born in
Bugtussle, Kentucky on March 3rd, 1946 to parents Hubert Carter Wheeler and Hazel (Ford)
Wheeler. James was proud to be from the small community of Bugtussle, frequently recounting
adventures from his youth from in and around the area. James had worked the land since his
youth, helping to support his large family when his father was unable to work. His early years
farming instilled an incredible work ethic within him, one that would follow him into his later
years. When James was 22 he met 19 year old Mae Ballard; Mae and James would tie the knot
only a few short months later in Celina, Tennessee. Mae and James would enjoy 57 years of
marriage together, by each other’s side through sickness and health. Both would become
members at New Liberty Baptist church in Bugtussle, Kentucky. The couple would enjoy many
trips to Arcola, Illinois for the Broomcorn festival, countless visits to local auctions to talk and
laugh, and hundreds of catfish plates from local restaurants.
They brought into this world their three loving children: Bobby Wheeler of Tompkinsville, Lisa
(Dale) McCreary of Franklin, and Michael Wheeler (Kathryn) of Gamaliel. In addition to his
wife and children, he is survived by two grandchildren: Bailey Wheeler (Clara) of Tompkinsville,
Lilly Wheeler of Tompkinsville, as well as one step-grandson, Brandon McCreary of Franklin.
From his 12 siblings, he is survived by his 3 brothers: Bill (Betty Jean) Wheeler of Gamaliel,
Johnny Wheeler of Gamaliel, and Wayne (Nina) Wheeler of Glasgow. Two sisters: Fay Shirley
of Moss, Tennessee, and Anita Gale (Charles) Pelley of Camby, Indiana. James loved his
siblings dearly, always assuring they were taken care of properly. He was also quite fond of his
in-laws as well, of whom 4 of the 8 he is survived by including: Fae (Bernard) Stinson, Chris
(Jerry) Reynolds, General Frye (Judy) Ballard, and Jody (Carolyn) Ballard, all of Horse Cave.
He is preceded in death by his parents, 6 siblings: Willard, Pete (Helen) Wheeler of Arcola,
Illinois, Carlene (Nancy) Wheeler of Gamaliel, Kenneth (Martha) Wheeler of Arthur, Illinois,
Lucile (Bobby) Hire and Linda (Dee) England, both of Indianapolis. Several in-laws preceded
him in death including David Ballard, Henry Clay Ballard, Margaret Sams, and George Dewey
(Shelby) Ballard, all of Horse Cave. He also follows one step-grandson, Brian McCreary of
Franklin. Last but not least, he was preceded by his loyal dog Peanut. Peanut was the runt of
the litter, but won James over with his feisty attitude, leaving him with no other choice but to take
him home. Their beautiful friendship lasted 18 years, which included plenty of ice cream
sandwiches and bottles of Mountain Dew shared between the two.
Although James lacked any formal education, those who knew him would describe him as one
of the most knowledgeable people they had ever met. James was an experienced outdoorsman,
able to identify any plant and animal native or invasive, as well as navigate the vast wilderness
of Monroe county. Through patience and practice he would become an excellent craftsman,
building beds, chairs, swings, and countless decorative reindeer. However, James was most
proud of the numerous knives he crafted in his later years. Often made from steel he formed
himself, with deer antler serving as the handle. His knives were truly unique, with some finding
their way to New York to be displayed and sold at auction. His years spent farming made him an
agricultural expert, particularly pertaining to sweet potatoes and black berries. He set countless

vines for those within the Gamaliel community, outright refusing to be compensated. James was
a man who wore many hats throughout his life, but those who knew him will remember him for
one thing, his incredibly kind and giving heart. If he had a penny to his name he would always
ensure that it would be spent feeding or clothing those he loved. James leaves behind a legacy
of putting others before himself and dedicating oneself to their crafts.

Larry Arnett, Wayne, Johnny & Bill Wheeler, Doyle & George Wilson & all nieces & nephews served as honorary pallbearers.

Bailey, Michael, Bobby, Mark & John Wheeler & Dale McCreary served as pallbearers

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