Mrs. Wheeler never missed an opportunity to demonstrate love to others. Her generosity, heartfelt handwritten notes, and constant invitations to join her for a meal( which she often insisted on paying for) were endless. She was an advocate of all things just, fair, and right and consistently modeled the Christain faith that she proclaimed. She was JOY!
Whether it was volunteering at Last Minute Toy Store, participating in the Healthywage Challenge, or bringing a dish for the annual Soul Food luncheon, I knew I could always count on her support. She was my consummate cheerleader! In return, I would frequently attend her band concerts and show her pictures I had snapped afterwards to prove that I was there supporting her program. I also was thrilled to join her on band fieldtrips...she wanted her students to have every opportunity to learn more and spared no expense to take them all over Music City.
My favorite memory may well be the day we went to Planet Fitness. I asked her to stay quiet while I pulled a few strings with the employee at the counter to let her inside even though she was not a member there. My planned worked! Now, we did way more chatting than exercising that day, but it was quite the outting. Just imagine Lavergne and Shirley at the gym.
There are so many things I will miss about Mrs. Wheeler, but I think I will most miss her strolling into my room and breaking out in song. Most recently, she would serenade me with," Her name was Lola.....Lola Falana...." Her beautiful voice and beaming smile were always a spirit lifter and we would usually conjure up a laugh.
To her family, who she absolutely adored, I continue to pray for each of you during this difficult time. Please know that she is missed deeply, already, and I can't imagine returning to work without her being there( I was already dreading her retirement for that reason.) I loved her and it was my honor to have her for so many years as a colleague and a sweet friend.
