John Gilbert Wheeler

John Gilbert Wheeler passed away in Waco, Texas on Wednesday, October

22, 2025, at the age of 86. John was known as Gilbert to his family, church,

and close friends. He will be remembered for his love of God, Jesus, and all

the people of this world.

Born on September 30, 1939, in Waco, Texas, Gilbert was the son of Arley

Plaska Wheeler and Ruby Pearl Spivey. He grew up and lived most of his

life in Bellmead, Texas and was a lifetime member of Oak Lawn Baptist

Church. Gilbert graduated from La Vega High School in 1958 and went on

to earn an Associate of Arts degree at Hill Junior College in 1968 and a

Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Religion from Baylor University in

1972. He became an ordained minister in 1966 and was employed as a

chaplain for the Bellmead Nursing Home for 30 years from 1968 to 1998.

Gilbert had several other jobs during his lifetime, including 50 years

working at the McClennan County polling stations from 1960 to 2010, 22

years working in the shipping department of Cox’s Department Store from

1973 to 1995, and 38 years as a ticket taker at the Baylor football games at

the Floyd Casey Stadium from 1960 to 1998. Later in life, he worked as a

substitute teacher at La Vega High School, G. W. Carver Middle School and

Miles Je;erson Elementary School from 2004 to 2010.

Gilbert is survived by his Uncle Joe Spivey and his Aunt Joan Spivey, 2

nephews, 1 niece, and many other cousins, family members and friends.

The family greatly appreciates the care and support to Gilbert by

the staff of Jeffrey’s Place.

A service to celebrate Gilbert’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 28,

2025 at 2 p.m. at the Bellmead Funeral Home located at 809 La Clede

Street, Bellmead, Texas, 76705.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a donation honoring

Gilbert to the Oak Lawn Baptist Church at 2105 Behrens Circle, Waco,

Texas, 76705 or to the charity of your choice.