Judy Mae Wheeler

Judy Mae Wheeler passed away on Thursday, August 2, 2018 at Riverside Methodist Hospital surrounded by her family. She was born on Jan. 24, 1947 in Zanesville, Ohio to the late Georgia Brister.

She was a graduate of the inaugural Meadowbrook High School Class of 1965. After graduation, Mrs. Wheeler worked at Rink’s Bargain City in Cambridge until 1978. After she married her beloved husband, the late Jack Wheeler, on April 1, 1978, she became her own boss and endeavored in running many small businesses out of her home. First, she provided childcare for many families in the Cambridge area, caring for up to 16 children at one time. Then, she began to sell her famous baked goods at the Dover Flea Market. At the same time, she also ran a concession stand at Big E Auction House in Byesville and a firewood business with her husband at their home in Center Township near Salt Fork State Park. During this time, she also beat breast cancer. Later in life, she ran a small goat farm with her grandson, Austin Warehime.

However, she was most proud of those she leaves behind. Mrs. Wheeler is survived by her sister and lifelong best friend, Elsie Hamilton, a daughter, Jolinda Markel, a son-in-law, James Markel, and three grandchildren, Austin Warehime, Jenna Markel, and Jacob Markel, all of Cambridge. Additionally, she leaves behind many who she considered children and grandchildren, Judy Burnworth, Dave Burnworth, Dakota Burnworth, David Warehime, Lynsey Beros, Dakota Patterson, Abbeigh Ewert, Dylan Roe, Jam’e Neuhart, Dan Kerns, and a very special kitty, Miracle. Finally, Judy leaves behind two sisters, Patricia Steinstra and Karen Brister, and one brother, George Brister, all of Warren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and Facebook friends. She was preceded in death by two brothers Tom and Eddie Brister.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Judy’s name and memory to Families of Riverside Methodist Medical ICU.

Calling hours will be held Tuesday, August 7, 2018 from 12-2 with funeral services to follow immediately after the conclusion of calling hours at Black Epperson funeral home in Byesville. Graveside services at Mount Zion Cemetery in Claysville will follow as well.

Expressions of sympathy may be extended to the family at www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com

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