Shirley Anne Wheeler Whealton

Shirley Ann Wheeler Whealton, 74, of Newport, died Friday, September 14­, 2018, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center in Goldsboro, NC. She died peacefully with her husband of 52 years, Warren Whealton, Jr. by her side. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister.

Her memorial service will be held at  3:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 30, 2018, at Open Door Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Jerry Linebarger.

Shirley grew up in New Bern and excelled in academics and sports. At New Bern High School, she was a cheerleader, a clarinet player in the band, and a member of the National Honor Society. She graduated from New Bern High School where she later returned to teach after graduating from UNC-G. She also taught in Washington City Schools, Beaufort Christian Academy, and Broad Creek Middle School for a career of almost 40 years as an outstanding educator.

Shirley loved life and lived every day to the fullest. She especially loved spending time with Lucy and Max, going to the beach, Cape Lookout, Shackleford Banks, and spending weekends and holidays at Portsmouth Island where the Whealtons leased a house from the National Park Service for 14 years. She loved all sports and was an avid fan and spectator.

She is survived by her husband, Warren of Newport; her son, Jeff Whealton and wife Erin Dugan Whealton and beloved grandchildren, Lucy and Max, all of Quinton, VA; brother, William G. Wheeler, of Erwin, NC; a brother-in-law, Tim Whealton and wife Rhonda; sister-in-law, Betty Garren and husband Ron, all of New Bern.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Corinna Wheeler of New Bern.

Even in her lengthy illness Shirley maintained her faith and optimism and never complained. The Hospice nurses who cared for her found her to be an inspiration to them because she was so grateful and cheerful even in the face of death.

Shirley was an active member of Open Door Baptist Church in Morehead City. The Whealton family is very grateful for the love and support of their church family and friends during her illness.

Family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. prior to the service at Open Door Baptist Church.

Flowers are welcome, or memorials can be sent to the Crystal Coast Hospice House, PO Box 640, Newport, NC 28570.

Online condolences may be made at www.mundenfuneralhome.net

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home and Crematory in Morehead City, NC.