Stephen Durelle Wheeler, 65, passed away at HCA North Florida Hospital on January 1, 2026, in Gainesville, FL. He was born on June 9, 1960, in Gainesville, Florida, to Ruth Ann Wheeler and the late Eugene Wheeler.

Stephen graduated from Keystone Heights High School in 1978, where he lettered in 4 different sports. One of his favorite memories from that time was being a part of the first baseball team fielded by Keystone Heights High School. Soon after graduating, he began his 37-year career in retail, working at Miller's and Publix. Of those years, Stephen spent 23 with Publix, where he moved his way up to Bakery Manager.

In his free time, Stephen enjoyed watching movies, listening to music, following the Florida Gators, painting, and creating memories with his family. His faith was central to his life and he cherished reading his Bible. Among his most treasured memories were his salvation on September 23, 1971, at First Baptist Church in Keystone Heights; marrying the love of his life, Sandy, on July 13, 1996; and being a devoted father to his two children.

Stephen is survived by his loving wife Sandra Lynne Wheeler; his children Travis Stephen Wheeler (Elise) and Gracie Lynne Wheeler (Michael); and his mother, Ruth Ann Wheeler and preceded in death by his father Eugene Wheeler. He is also survived by his siblings Stephanie (Ricky), Greg (Lesli), and Pamela; his nieces Ashley, Kristin, Hannah, Kaitlin, Brooke; his nephews, Gregory Jr., Todd, Blake, Luke, and Simon; his sister-in-law Lisa; his mother-in-law, Carolyn, and preceded in death by his father-in-law Marion.

The service for Stephen Wheeler will be held on January 10th, at 11:00 AM with a visitation starting at 10:00 AM at Trinity Baptist Church in Keystone Heights, Florida.