Sally Wheeler

Sally Wheeler was born in Ottumwa, IA January 6, 1924, to Lucius and Estella Burch. The family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan where she lived until her marriage. She attended Graceland College in Iowa where her roommate was Laura Wheeler of Medina, TX. Sally began writing to Laura’s brother Carl who was serving with the Army Medical Corps in Africa. After three years of correspondence they were married August 7, 1948 and moved to Austin to attend the University of Texas. She received a B.S. in Home Economics and a Master’s in Library Science and was employed by AISD teaching home economics and later as a librarian.

An avid reader she had an eclectic reading list. She became the genealogist for her mother’s family, the John Hartnells of England, Canada and the U.S. and published a 572 page Hartnell history. An expert seamstress Sally enjoyed interior decorating and dressmaking. She and Carl spent many enjoyable summer vacations visiting newly discovered relatives in the U.S. and Canada and took trips to Europe and Australia. Her sense of humor, generous spirit and ready smile made her an enjoyable companion. She touched countless lives and forged deep and lasting friendships over the years. She loved animals and always had a dog or cat or both living with her. Her favorites were Spooky, her cat and Sweetie, a miniature Schnauzer.

Her faith sustained and guided her all her life and she never doubted God had a plan for her life. She was a devoted member of the Community of Christ and enjoyed the fellowship and activities.

Sally was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Carl. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Lorayne Wheeler of Austin, many nephews, nieces and their children and grandchildren, along with special friends Manuel and Cindy Tamayo.

A memorial service will be held Jan. 10th, 2021. For more information go to the Harrell Funeral Homes website.