William “Bill” Wheeler

William “Bill” Wheeler of Fayetteville, Georgia, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday morning, January 29, 2026. Born on September 2, 1942, in DeKalb County, Georgia, Bill was a proud American who lived a life marked by hard work, a love of the outdoors and camping, deep friendships, and unwavering devotion to his family and church.

After graduating from Forest Park High School in 1960 and completing technical school, Bill secured an apprenticeship and began his career with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He worked his way up from stereotyping and printing to becoming one of the newspaper’s most respected automotive advertising sales and service leaders, earning recognition as Salesperson of the Year in 1988. Through decades of dedication, Bill developed strong and lasting relationships with metro Atlanta automobile dealerships and coworkers, earning a reputation as both an effective professional and a trusted friend. After more than 40 years with the newspaper, Bill retired, allowing him to focus on family time, fishing, hunting, and life at the lake.

During retirement, Bill expanded his volunteer service within the church, serving as a deacon, head of security, and ministering in the Reformers Unanimous (RU) program.

Above all else, Bill was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 60 years, Carol Jenkins Wheeler; his daughter, Keri Tolar (Bryan) of Saint Simons Island, Georgia; and his son, Ryan Wheeler (Judy Cochran) of Woodbury, Georgia.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse James and Mary Lou Long Wheeler, and his brother, James “Jim” Marvin Wheeler.

Bill will be remembered for his deep devotion to his family, his love of life on the lake, the many meaningful friendships that brought him great joy, and his passion for hunting, fishing, and the outdoors—passions he joyfully instilled in others. After courageously battling cancer for more than a year, Bill has now won his fight. His body is fully healed as he enjoys the most beautiful lakes, bountiful fishing, and the best hunts of Heaven with the family and friends who went before him.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the prayers, kindness, and love shown during this difficult time. Special thanks are offered to the members of Woolsey Baptist Church and the staff of Guiding Light Hospice for their extraordinary compassion, support, and care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Catch A Dream Foundation.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, February 21, at 1:00 p.m. at Woolsey Baptist Church in Fayetteville, Georgia. The family will receive visitors from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.