Mary E. Wheeler

January 21, 1922 – June 24, 2025

Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Mary E. Wheeler (nee Kennedy) was the beloved wife of the late James M. Wheeler; cherished mother of Theresa Wheeler (Terry), Florence Williams (Bob), Catherine Wheeler, Rita Wheeler (Ken), Helen Wheeler-Ayyad (Sammy), James E. Wheeler (Barb) and Thomas Wheeler (Patty).  Adored grandmother of 12, great-grandmother of ll with 2 expected great-grandchildren this fall; aunt, great-aunt, and friend.

Mary was preceded in death by her loved granddaughter, Jacqueline A. Williams, parents Stephen V. and Rita C. Kennedy, brothers: Vincent, James, Joseph, Steven, and Thomas Kennedy, sisters: Rita Hart, Catherine Danna, Theresa Anderson, and Patricia Alvarado.

Mary was in one of the first groups of women to join the newly formed Navy WAVES in 1943. Mary served in the Navy during WWII as a lab technician from 1943-1945. Mary furthered her education after the military by receiving her associates' degree as a medical technician with the assistance of the GI Bill. Mary was proud of her military service and her 20+ years of service as a medical technician at the John Cochran Veterans Administration Medical Center.

Mary was deeply proud of her Irish heritage. She loved Irish music, U2, and she attended many St. Patrick's Day Dogtown Parades well into her 90's with her son Thomas. Mary enjoyed reading, TV, attending church and family events.

Mary was also deeply proud of her Catholic faith and was a proud member of the former St. Gregory's Parish (St. Ann) for over 50 years.

Visitation Sunday, June 29, 4:00 to 8:00 PM at COLLIER'S Funeral Home 3400 North Lindbergh Boulevard, Saint Ann, MO 63074. Funeral Mass Monday, June 30 10:00 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church at 3130 Parkwood Lane Maryland Height, MO 64043. Interment Sacred Heart Cemetery (Florissant).

Masses preferred or donations to the St. Vincent DePaul Society.