Obituary published on Legacy.com by J.C. Kirby and Son Lovers Lane Chapel - Bowling Green on Nov. 4, 2025.
Steven Allen Wheeler, 78, passed away peacefully on November 3,2025, in Alvaton, Kentucky. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected professional, Steve's life was marked by unwavering faith, community service, and a distinguished career that spanned more than five decades. His sincere love for others, and making everyone feel like their best friend is a rare gift. His love for God, Jesus Christ, and humanity was unmatched. He lived a meaningful life, honoring God and family, and now receives his eternal reward.
Born on July 27, 1947, in Providence, Rhode Island to Wanda (Henderson) & Darrell Wheeler. He moved to Kentucky at a young age and graduated from Alvaton High School in 1966. Steve went on to earn a Bachelor's of Science degree in Accounting from Western Kentucky University in 1971. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a remarkable professional journey defined by integrity and leadership.
Upon graduation, Steve joined JC Holland & Company. His dedication and expertise quickly earned him a partnership in the firm by 1974. Over the next several decades, he played an instrumental role in shaping the company into a trusted name in tax and investment services. In May 2022, after more than 50 years with Carr, Riggs and Ingram and Level Four Financial, Steve embraced a new chapter as CEO of Chandler Real Estate alongside David Chandler.
Steve held numerous certifications and professional licenses across more than 30 states. He was an active member of several nationally known organizations. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve was deeply committed to his community. For over half a century, he served as a pillar of Bowling Green-Warren County area through his involvement on various community boards and charitable initiatives. His contributions were most recently recognized with several honors: the Lotus Award from Hospice of Southern Kentucky in 2022; the Exemplary Volunteerism Award from the Arts of Southern Kentucky in 2024; and most recently, Warren County Schools Distinguished Alumni Award in 2025.
Steve's faith was central to his life. At age ten, he was saved at the General Baptist Church in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Later in life, through his beloved wife, Mary Loyce's, influence, he began attending Old Union Missionary Baptist Church. There he was baptized and became an active member for nearly five decades. For 48 years, he faithfully served as a Deacon and held various roles within the church community. He often expressed gratitude to the Lord for his salvation, his church, and for the many blessings bestowed upon his life.
Steve is survived by his loving wife Mary Loyce; two sons: Brad Wheeler (Julie) of
Bowling Green, Kentucky; Mark Wheeler (Ky'a) of Springfield, Missouri; and Kelly Keltner (Alex) whom he loved as a daughter; as well as four cherished grandchildren: Hudson, Madysen (Patrick), Mason (Tyra), and Emersen, a brother Gary (Lisa) Wheeler of Elkhart, Indiana, a sister Linda (Adrian) Feldman of Alvaton, KY, and nieces Rachel (Murf) Adams of Alvaton, KY, Melissa (Ean) Frederick of Elkhart, Indianna, nephews Justin (Natalie) Feldman of
Bowling Green, KY and Jordan Wheeler of Elkhart, Indianna.
He was preceded in death by his mother Wanda and Step-father Tommy Sledge.
A special thanks to caregivers Tammy Bunch, Linda Junkins, and Adrianne Farris that provided exceptional care the last years of Steve's life. We also thank the first responders from Plano Fire, the Warren County Sherriff's office, and the Bowling Green Medical Center for their kind companionate care.
Visitation will be held at Kirby and Son's Funeral Home on Lover's Lane Thursday from 3:30 to 9:00, November 6th and Friday, November 7th from 9:00 to 10:00. A memorial service honoring Steve's life will be held at Old Union Missionary Baptist Church in Bowling Green on Friday, November 7th at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Old Union Cemetery.
The funeral service at Old Union Missionary Baptist Church will be live streamed on their Facebook page. Please use the following link: https://www.facebook.com/oumbc/
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Steven A. Wheeler Scholarship Fund at the College Heights Foundation and to Hospice of Southern Kentucky.
Services are entrusted in J.C. Kirby & Son Lovers Lane Chapel.