"With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation." - Psalm 91:16

J.R. Wheatley, 93, of Leeton, Missouri, went home to his long-awaited heavenly reward on April 13, 2025.

He was born on October 27, 1931, in rural Knob Noster, Missouri, the fourth of five children to Fred Wheatley and Lula Mae (Tinker) Wheatley. From the very beginning, J.R. embodied grit, love, and a strong will to live-qualities that defined nearly 94 years of a life well lived.

Raised in the countryside, J.R. learned the value of hard work at a young age, helping his father on the family farm. He eventually took a position with the State of Oklahoma and later served in the United States Army's artillery division for two years.

Following his military service, J.R. went to work for Phillips Petroleum Company, where he remained for 17 years. It was during this time, in August of 1961, that he met the love of his life, Shirley Ann Hamilton, in Wheeler, Texas. They were married on December 21, 1961, and shared nearly 64 years of marriage-a true testament to enduring love and commitment.

In 1970, J.R. and Shirley settled in Leeton, Missouri, where they built a life and a legacy. Together they raised one son, Robert "Buck" Wheatley 62 (wife Teresa) of Hamilton, Montana. J.R. was also the father of Phillip John Escareno 67 (wife Susan) of Garden City, Kansas. He was lovingly known as "Pa Pa" to seven grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

J.R. retired from Central Missouri State University after 27 years of dedicated service. Even after retirement, he continued to work-mowing lawns, fixing what needed fixing, and helping neighbors across the Leeton community. That's just who he was: dependable, humble, and endlessly generous.

A devoted member of Leeton Christian Church for over 30 years, J.R. served faithfully-rocking babies in the pews, caring for others, and quietly leading by example.

He never needed praise. He never needed the spotlight. He simply needed a job worth doing and people worth loving. And he did both-with his whole heart.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Ann Wheatley of the home; his sons, Robert "Buck" Wheatley (wife Teresa) of Hamilton, Montana, and Phillip John Escareno (wife Susan) of Garden City, Kansas; sister Della Jo of Springfield Missouri, seven grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and many dear friends and neighbors.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at the Christian Church of Leeton, followed by a funeral service and graveside service from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., with Dr. Dan Lowry officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Christian Church of Leeton and left in care of the funeral home.