Dr. Stephen Freels Wheeler

Dr. Stephen Freels Wheeler, a devoted minister, brilliant scientist, and accomplished pilot, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in comfort of his home at the age of 80 on February 20, 2026, in Richardson, Texas.

Stephen was born on February 22, 1945. A lifelong learner with a brilliant mind, he pursued a rigorous academic path. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Mathematics from Texas A&M University in 1982, and continued there to receive his Master of Science in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence in 1985. His drive for knowledge ultimately culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence from Walden University in 1992.

Throughout his remarkable career, Dr. Wheeler was a pioneer in artificial intelligence and a passionate aviator. He shaped the minds of future innovators as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of North Texas and during his 15-year tenure as a Senior Professor at DeVry University. As a data scientist, he tackled complex challenges at Dell, Wipro, and on Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Joint Strike Fighter team, earning him a place in Who’s Who in America and Who’s Who in the World.

His accomplishments extended far into the skies as an FAA Licensed Commercial Pilot and a Captain in the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary. As an advocate for preserving history, he was the President and CEO of Veteran War Birds of America, and he proudly served as Mission Commander for NASA’s MDRS Crew 88 in 2010.

A man of profound, unwavering faith, Stephen answered the call to serve as an Ordained Minister within the United Pentecostal Church (UPC). He lived his beliefs every single day by never missing a church service, consistently paying his tithes, contributing to foreign missions, and pastoring multiple congregations with a true servant's heart. To his family, he was their spiritual rock and shepherd, guiding them to get saved, attend church, and walk closely with the Lord.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents, C.J. and Alice Wheeler; his brother, David Wheeler; and his beloved children, Stephen Scott Wheeler and Christina Lynn Wheeler. He is survived by his loving wife, Diane Wheeler; his daughters, Dea and her husband Brock Fisher, and Erin; his grandchildren, Stephen and his wife Jamie, and Amanda; and his great-grandchildren, Allison, Alayna, Norah, and Marlee. He also leaves behind his brothers and their wives: C.J. and Jane Wheeler, Robert and Lori Wheeler, and Thomas and Becky Wheeler.

Stephen leaves behind an indelible mark on this world and in our hearts. In his memory, we look to the wisdom of Proverbs 27:17: "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend."

A graveside service will be held at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, located at 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, on February 25, 2026, at 10:00am.