Jimmy Ray Wheeler

Jimmy Ray Wheeler, 85, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025. Born on January 8, 1940, in Hickman County, Kentucky, he was the son of James William and May Nell Wheeler. Raised in Mayfield, KY, Jim was known for his integrity, loyalty, and love for his family.

A proud graduate of Murray State University, Jim went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army Reserves before beginning a long and successful career in the transportation industry. A few highlights from his career include working for Peabody Coal Company and Mid-America Barge Line, where he witnessed the St. Louis Gateway Arch being built from his office window. He went on to become the Transportation Manager at Dundee Cement Company in Clarksville, MO. Later he relocated to Columbia, SC, where he became the Southeastern Transportation Manager at Dundee/Holnam/Holcim Cement, Inc. He eventually retired as the Operations Manager for Santee Carriers. According to colleagues, he was known for his fairness, dedication, and steady leadership.

Jim loved hunting and spent many days out on the golf course with friends. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially sitting on the porch listening to his music. He enjoyed watching SEC football and loved to cheer on the South Carolina Gamecocks. Most of all, Jim adored spending time with his children and grandchildren. He believed that his family was life’s greatest gift. His Saturday “Steak Night” was famous among family and friends, as there was always room for “one more” at the dinner table. Everyone knew there was nowhere better to go for a great steak.

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im was a faithful member of Northeast United Methodist Church in Columbia, where he attended Sunday School and found strength in fellowship and prayer.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife of 40 years, Martha Ann Wheeler, his sister, Nancy Eury, and his longtime companion, Kay Burgess.

Surviving are his son, James Wheeler (Lisa) of Moncks Corner, SC, Kimberly Trucksis (Jon) of Tega Cay, SC , and Christina Wheeler (Brent) of Simpsonville, SC. “PaPa” deeply loved his grandchildren: Meghan, Jacob, and Joshua Trucksis, Jaylin Wyndham (Alec), Ashton Waitt (Chris), and his great grandchild, Emelia. They are truly his biggest blessing.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com. Jim will be laid to rest in his home state of Kentucky and services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Boy Scout Troop #156 ℅ John Lynn 2902 Georgia St, Louisiana, MO 63353 Or Northeast United Methodist Church, 4000 Hard Scrabble Rd, Columbia, SC 29223