James E Wheatley, age 99, went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 28, 2025, at the Kansas Soldiers' Home in Fort Dodge, Kansas. He was a resident of Finney County since 1942.

Mr. Wheatley was born August 22, 1925, in Beggs, Okmulgee County, Oklahoma, the second of four children born to Walter Riley Wheatley and Mary (Wofford) Wheatley. He was preceded in death by his precious wife of 71 years, Neada (Engler) Wheatley, his parents, his older brother Daniel (Wilma) and younger sister Marjorie D'Ercole Fravel. He is survived by his youngest brother, Clarence (Vada) of Spring, Texas, his three sons: Dr. Jim Wheatley (Mickey) of Concord, North Carolina; Rev. Arnold Wheatley (Penny) of York, Pennsylvania, and Roger Wheatley (Tammy) of Garden City. He was proud of his six grandchildren, three step grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A WWII veteran of the US Army, 307 Th Infantry Regiment, holding the rank of Staff Sergeant, he served in the Pacific Theater of Operations. He was privileged to be with fellow veterans on a Kansas Honor Flight to Washington D.C., a highlight of his later years, and was proud to have served his country.

Holding a master electrician's license, he did electrical work for residential, commercial and industrial clients throughout Finney County, and beyond. Many prominent buildings in Garden City and vicinity were wired by him. He was the owner-operator of Wheatley Electric, having a motto of "You call us, we'll wire you."

Jim served on the Deacon Board as well as worship leader at First Assembly of God for many years. He also served as worship leader at Calvary Assembly in Garden City. His seemingly endless supply of jokes provided much laughter among friends and family. He will be remembered for his gentle, kind spirit, keen sense of humor, and a love for people and his God.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Kansas Soldiers' Home for the loving care they provided, and to the personnel of Hospice of the Prairie. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a location and time to be announced. Burial will be in Valley View Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Memorials are suggested to the Finney County Humane Society of Garden City in care of the funeral home.