Wheeler Mortuary Obituaries

Wheeler Mortuary: A Legacy of Compassionate Care in Portales, NM

Located in the heart of Portales, New Mexico, Wheeler Mortuary has been a pillar of support for families during their most difficult times. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional service, this funeral home has earned a reputation as a trusted and caring partner in the community.

A Brief History of Wheeler Mortuary

Founded on a foundation of compassion and dedication, Wheeler Mortuary has been serving the people of Portales and surrounding areas for generations. The funeral home's story began with a vision to provide personalized and meaningful services that honor the lives of loved ones who have passed. Today, the Wheeler Mortuary team continues to uphold this mission, offering a range of services designed to meet the unique needs of each family they serve.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Thayne Garland Brower - January 25, 1938 - April 20, 2022

Departed: 04/20/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page. Send a Meaningful Gift

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Darwin Kay Sumsion - April 20, 1930 - April 16, 2022

Departed: 04/16/2022 (Springville)

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Valerie Ventura Sims - April 08, 2022 - April 08, 2022

Departed: 04/08/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Valerie Ventura Sims, infant daughter of Jared Spencer Sims and Marisol Mendoza Sims, passed away shortly after her birth on Friday, April 8, 2022.  She is survived by her parents and Brooke Andersen; Caitlin Croft; and Vivian Vega. There will be a visitation and service held a Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South in Springville on Friday, April 15th from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Graveside services will follow in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

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Afton Alleman - December 25, 1929 - April 07, 2022

Departed: 04/07/2022 (Springville)

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Ralph Joseph McClain - July 22, 1942 - April 04, 2022

Departed: 04/04/2022 (Springville)

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Mary Talaska - February 10, 1924 - March 31, 2022

Departed: 03/31/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Mary Chilibeck Talaska, age 98 of Springville, passed away Thursday, March 31, 2022.  She was born February 10, 1924 in Mundare, Alberta, Canada to Peter and Alexandra (Forest) Chilibeck.  She is survived by her four children and her grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 7, 2022 in the Springville Historic City Cemetery, 200 West 400 South in Springville.

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Robert (Bo) Eugene White - July 13, 1953 - March 30, 2022

Departed: 03/30/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: For those unable to join us in person, you may view the services here: https://www.facebook.com/wheelermortuary/videos/277816941082096

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Terry Dayle Evans - May 11, 1957 - March 29, 2022

Departed: 03/29/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: For those unable to join us in person, you may view the services HERE

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Lori June Powell - April 09, 1965 - March 26, 2022

Departed: 03/26/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Lori June (Tolman) Powell will be remembered by her love, selflessness, passion, and beautiful blue eyes. She passed away on Saturday, March 26, 2022 surrounded by many loved ones. She was born April 9, 1965 in Redlands, California as the fourth and youngest child to Donald Newell Tolman and Lucille Jane Johnson-Tolman. She married Derek Todd Powell on July 9, 1994 at the Manti, Utah Temple and held their reception in Mapleton, Utah where Lori was thrilled to have a cast of Disney Characters attend.

The newlywed couple resided in Logan, Utah for a few months before buying a home in Hyrum, Utah where they welcomed their first two daughters. Lori and Derek relocated to Spanish Fork in order to care for Lori’s mother and have happily resided there since 1998. They were blessed with their third and final daughter in the year 2000. Lori’s life started in Yucaipa, California until her family moved to Anaheim, California in her mid teen years. One of her favorite things to do as a “California girl” was taking a ride with her pony, Thunderbolt, to the local 7-Eleven where the two would share a Sprite and Snickers Bar. She always loved spending time with her mother while her dad was out of town. She graduated from Katella High School in 1983 and served in the Washington D.C. mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints of which she has been a life-long member. Lori’s favorite job besides Disneyland in her teen years, was working in the children’s department at the Spanish Fork Public Library from April 2005 up until her death.

Lori is survived by her husband, Derek, and three daughters- Alexa Anne, Emily Catherine, and Lucille Marlene Powell (all residing in Spanish Fork) as well as her brothers Stephen Tolman of Springville, Utah and Craig Tolman of Yucaipa, California. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Lucille, and her sister Valeri Heath.

A viewing for family and friends will be held Tuesday, March 29, 2022 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South in Springville.  Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. in the LDS Church located at 310 E. Center Street in Spanish Fork with a viewing from 9:30 to 10:30 am prior to services.  Burial will be in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery. For those unable to join us in person, you may view the services here: https://www.facebook.com/wheelermortuary/videos/656863322091778 Send a Meaningful Gift or Donation

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Patricia Ann Roberts - March 28, 1935 - March 25, 2022

Departed: 03/25/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Patricia Ann Bancroft Roberts, age 86 of Lindon, passed away Friday, March 25, 2022.  Services are under the direction of Wheeler Mortuary.  Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page. Send a Meaningful Gift or Donation

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David James Graves - August 09, 1954 - March 25, 2022

Departed: 03/25/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: David James Graves was welcomed home into the loving arms of his Heavenly Father on March 25, 2022 after a 12 year battle with cancer. Most of his battle was unknown to many as he lived his life to the fullest, not skipping a beat with sports, family vacations, and work, until his body no longer allowed him the ability to go further. He was a part of many memories that will be treasured forever. Dave was born on August 9, 1954, in Springville, Utah to Norm and Lois Graves. He was the third of seven children, and the oldest son. He married the love of his life, and high school sweetheart, Shellie Phillips on November 13, 1975 in the Provo Temple. Together they have 5 children and made a home in Springville, Utah. Dave went to Springville High School where he graduated in 1972. He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Bristol England from 1973-1975. Dave served as a faithful member in multiple capacities, including the Young Men, Bishop and various leadership positions. He graduated from Brigham Young University as a Civil Engineer in December of 1983 and began a career with the Army Core of Engineers. He worked for Provo City for 31 years spending his last 10 as the city engineer. He had many great contributions and retired in August of 2020. The greatest passion in his life was his family! He spent many hours teaching, coaching, supporting and cheering on his kids and grandkids through every activity. Dave is survived by his wife; Shellie, his five children Greg (Miranda) Graves of Spanish Fork, Cami (Brig) Thomas of Mapleton, Trisha (Matt) Esplin of Springville, Ashlee (Kacey) Crandall of St. George, and Trevor (Rachelle) Graves of Springville. He is survived by 22 grandchildren and one great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norm and Lois Graves, and his Father-in-Law Ridge Phillips. A viewing will be held for family and friends Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South in Springville, from 6:00pm-8:00pm. Funeral Services will be held Friday April 1, 2022 at 11:00am, at the Hobble Creek Stake Center, 495 South Canyon Road in Springville, with a viewing prior to the services, from 9:30am-10:30am. Interment will be held at the Evergreen Cemetery in Springville, Utah. We Love You Dave, Dad and Grandpa! Always stay close by! Send a Meaningful Gift

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McKay Christopher Sorensen - December 18, 1990 - March 22, 2022

Departed: 03/22/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page. Send a Meaningful Gift or Donation

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Kenneth Robert Brown - November 07, 1941 - March 20, 2022

Departed: 03/20/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Kenneth Robert Brown, 80, of Provo, Utah passed away Sunday, March 20, 2022. He was born on November 7, 1941 to William Robert Brown & Ellen Miriam Beveridge Brown in American Fork, Utah. He married Lynne Lorraine Lauritzen on June 4, 1965 & were sealed in the Provo, Utah temple on November 28, 1975.

Ken moved with his family to Wolf Creek, Montana at the age of 5 in June of 1947 where he attended 1st & 2nd grade. He moved to Pleasant Grove, Utah with his family in April of '1949 where he attended school through his high school graduation. After his graduation from Pleasant Grove High school he joined the U.S. Army where he served from June 9, 1959 until June 9, 1962. He returned to Utah and on June 11, 1962 started working at Heckett Engineering as a laborer. He worked at Heckett for 36 years until retiring in 1998 as plant manager. He was a devoted father and grandfather and loved to spend time with his children and grandchildren. He was an avid game player and was especially fond of card games. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, he liked to camp and spend time in the outdoors. Ken was a dedicated member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he served as a Hometeacher, Scout leader, Bishop, High Councilor, and many other positions in the church.

Ken is survived by his wife Lynne and four children Robert (Rachel) of Pleasant Grove, Bruce (Cami) of American Fork, Laura of Provo, Emily (Justin) Christiansen of Orem and 6 grandchildren; Tyson, Michael, Kenneth, Joseph, Asa and Rowena and by his brother Steven. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Carol Lyn Hansen and brother Paul Brown.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 25, 2022 at l l:00 am in the Grandview 17th ward chapel located at 1122 Grand Avenue, Provo, Utah. A viewing for friends and family will be held Thursday evening from 6:00-8:00 pm and Friday 9:30-10:30 at the church. Burial will be in the Springville Evergreen Cemetery.

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Jess Ernest Barton - January 16, 1935 - March 18, 2022

Departed: 03/18/2022 (Springville)

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Doris June Harker - October 22, 1928 - March 18, 2022

Departed: 03/18/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Doris June Miner Harker, 93, of Springville, passed peacefully from this earth on Friday, March 18, 2022 with her family by her side and her sweetheart waiting patiently in the wings. Doris June was born October 22, 1928 in Long Beach, California to Melvin and Pearl Miner. She was the youngest of their four children, joining Doug, Barbara, and Mary Jane. They grew up in an idyllic neighborhood, across the street from a golf course and park as well as a lagoon just a block away which extended up from the ocean. Golfing was a big part of their family life and being outdoors and active was a life-long passion of hers. Another life-long passion was the friendships she made. She had the ability to strike up a conversation with anyone and magically make connections to people she had never met before. In her 90s she still kept in touch with friends she made in elementary school and college as well as friends from places she had lived in California, Utah, Michigan, New Mexico and France. As an avid reader, she loved to learn new things. Even after graduating from the UC Berkeley she took community education courses while her children were young and went to law school at the age of 44 when her youngest children were in high school. She practiced law in Salt Lake City, at the University of Michigan, and Los Alamos Laboratory in New Mexico. So much of this was possible for her because of the great support of her husband/best friend, Reed Harker. They were married in Mesa, Arizona January 24, 1951 and built a life together while raising their four children. She was very supportive of him as well, moving to four different states as his career developed. She also went with him on two LDS missions to France, where Reed had served in his youth. They loved traveling, camping, golfing, eating great food, visiting grandchildren and just being together wherever they were. Her faith was important to her and carried her through her life’s greatest challenge when Reed passed away in 2007. Her faith in God and the knowledge that she would be with Reed again gave her the strength to live the last 14 years alone. In addition to Reed, she was preceded in death by her parents, three siblings, and two little great-grandsons. She is survived by her four children, Alan (Stephanie) Harker of Springville, Janice King of Clayton, California, Nancy (Dane) Calkins of Springville, and Jay (Marian) Harker of Longmont, Colorado. She was very proud of her family, which includes 13 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. She was especially thrilled to live long enough for those 3 little great-greats to arrive over the last 7 months. The family wishes to express gratitude to her many neighbors who watched out for her, and to the staff of Spring Gardens and iCare hospice for their tender care of our mother during the final days of her life. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday May 14, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. in the Hobble Creek Stake Center, 495 S. Canyon Road in Springville. Send a Meaningful Gift or Donation

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Roderick Galen Betts - September 15, 1939 - March 17, 2022

Departed: 03/17/2022 (Springville)

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Lori Gammell - March 06, 1959 - March 17, 2022

Departed: 03/17/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Lori Crandall Gammell, our beloved Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunt, Friend and Nana, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Mapleton Thursday evening March 17, 2022. She was 63 years young after battling ovarian cancer for four and a half years. Love you all!

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page. For those unable to attend, you may view the services HERE If you would like to send flowers the family asks you please support Wrights Flowers in Springville, 801-489-4219  https://www.wrightflowercompany.com/ Send a Meaningful Gift

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Karen Faye Measom - March 25, 1942 - March 16, 2022

Departed: 03/16/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Condolences for the family may be left on this page. Send a Meaningful Gift

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Mary Pauline Priest - July 31, 1925 - March 16, 2022

Departed: 03/16/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: A viewing for family and friends will be held Friday, March 25, 2022 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South in Springville, Utah.  Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 26, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at the Church at 1460 East 900 South in Springville with a viewing from 9:30 to 10:30 prior to the services.  Burial will be in the Springville Evergreen Cemetery.

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Val Gene Ogles - June 05, 1931 - March 11, 2022

Departed: 03/11/2022 (Springville)

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Riley Kevin Howell - December 20, 1988 - March 08, 2022

Departed: 03/08/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 12, 2022, at 1:00 pm at Wheeler Mortuary, located at 211 East 200 South, Springville 84663. A viewing for family and friends will be held from 12:00-1:00 pm prior to the services at the mortuary.

Condolences for the family may be left on this page. Send a Meaningful Gift or Donation

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Ronald Brent Pickering - May 25, 1942 - March 06, 2022

Departed: 03/06/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Ronald Brent Pickering, 79, of Springville, passed away Sunday, March 6, 2022. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Jay Willard Pickering and Alma Jewell Hedgepeth Pickering on May 25, 1942. He married Dorothy Elaine Witherell on December 19, 1969, in the St. George LDS Temple.

Brent was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served as a missionary in the Central British Mission. He graduated with a Master’s Degree from BYU. He completed his graduate work and undergraduate work in dramatic arts. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1969 in Korea as an Ammunition Specialist/Company Clerk, MP. He met Dorothy Elaine Witherell at BYU in September of 1969 when he was finishing his Master’s Degree. He then whisked Dorothy away to Laie, Oahu, Hawaii, in June of 1970. Brent became the Director of Theatre and Developmental Speech at Church College of Hawaii/Brigham Young University-Hawaii until 1979 when he moved his family to Springville, Utah, where they continued to live and raise their family.

Brent was a man of many talents, that especially of drama and his creative eye. While in Hawaii, Brent expanded his passion for creating parade floats to include fresh flowered floats for Kamehameha Day and Aloha Day parades. He took pride and time in the many floats he made for various cities and organizations. He received many prestigious awards throughout his career in the float business. The award he was most proud of was his design for the city of Sierra Madre, which won The Princesses Award for the Pasadena Rose Parade in 2008 for the most beautiful entry 35 feet and under. After moving to Springville, Utah, he created his own parade float business which was Floats by Brent. While maintaining his float business, he also managed to direct over a hundred productions between BYU-Hawaii, and community theatres in Springville and Payson, Utah. And when he wasn’t working on floats or directing theatre, he enjoyed bringing candy to life, whether it be miniature carnivals or Santa’s North Pole Retreat. His grandchildren were always mesmerized by his train display spanning over two rooms in the downstairs of his home.

He is survived by his wife Dorothy Elaine Pickering of Springville, Utah, and his brother Sherman Paul (Chris) Pickering of Sandy, Utah. He is also survived by his six children. Catina LeeAnn (Ryan) Nichols of Etna, Wyoming; Julie Ann (Shaun) McCormick of American Fork, Utah; Robert Jay (Kristi) Pickering of Draper, Utah; Kristen Julie (Matt) Streadbeck of Texas; Emily Esther Blink of Clever, Missouri; Andrew (BrynLee) Pickering of Springville, Utah; 28 grandchildren; and 12 (almost 13) great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jay and Jewell, his brother Gary, his son Ronald Brent Pickering Jr., daughter Meilani Ann Pickering, and son Paul Michael Pickering.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 11, 2022, at 11 a.m. at Wheeler Mortuary located at 211 East 200 South, Springville, Utah, 84663. A viewing for friends and family will be held prior to the service from 9 to 10:30 a.m. also at Wheeler Mortuary. Burial will be in the Springville Historical Cemetery with military honors by the American Legion. Send a Meaningful Gift or Donation

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Carol Jean Eves - February 22, 1936 - March 06, 2022

Departed: 03/06/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Carol Jean Heaton Eves, 86, of Springville, Utah, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 6, 2022. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 12 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel on 1965 East Canyon Road, Springville, Utah. Viewings for family and friends will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, March 11 at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South, Springville, Utah and from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the services at the church on Saturday. Burial will be in the Historic Springville City Cemetery.

Carol Jean was born Feb. 22, 1936 in St. George, Utah. Daughter of Merrill and Afton Heaton. She was raised in Alton, Utah. She graduated from Valley High school in Orderville, Utah. She later obtained a technical degree and license in the field of radiologic technology from Utah Valley Hospital in Provo Utah.

About the time she completed her technical degree, she met and fell in love with Wendell A Eves. They were married in the Manti Temple on August 8, 1959. They eventually settled in Springville where they raised their 7 daughters.

Carol Jean worked for a time at Utah Valley Hospital but spent most of her career working for BYU in their Student Health Services. She retired from BYU in 2001.  In 2012 –2013 Carol was able to fulfill her dream of serving a mission with Wendell for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in Oakland/San Francisco Mission at the Family History Center near the temple in Oakland. She loved her experiences there with dad and being able to serve the Lord.

She was always willing to receive family and guests into her home and loved to feed them and care for them. She loved her family and will be greatly missed.

She was preceded in death by her brother Richard and sister Marjorie, daughter Sondra (Kent) Meeks, and granddaughter Jessica Ann Warnick.

She is survived by her husband Wendell A Eves, and daughters; Shellie (Kent) Warnick, Sherry (Craig) Michelsen, Shirley (Eduardo) Paz, Sheryl (Jason) Vernon, Shauna Eves, Shannon (James) Farrer and many Grandchildren and Great grandchildren.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page. Send a Meaningful Gift or Donation

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Michael Douglas Richmond - September 23, 1945 - February 24, 2022

Departed: 02/24/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Michael Douglas Richmond, 76, of Springville, Utah, passed away February 24, 2022 in his home in Springville, with various health issues.

He was born September 23,1945, to Maurice DeVaughn Richmond and Grace Marie Oakey. The youngest of 5 children. Having 1 brother and 3 sisters, that he loved very much. He grew up in Springville and graduated from Springville High School in 1963.

After dating for 5 years, he married Sharon Lee Cain in Springville, UT, on February 10, 1967. They called Springville their home, having 3 children, Michelle (Kevin) Richins of Spanish Fork, UT, Brian of Spanish Fork, UT , Brent of Springville.

He went to a Technical College. And then started his construction career at Fugals and then to Thorns, as a truck driver Later moving to Geneva Rock as a grader operator for 27 years, and finishing his construction career working for Staker Parsons for 10 years. During his career he also did drywall. He retired from construction after 44 years, but continued working at ASAP as a parts guy.

Anytime you would call and ask him, “What ya doing? It would always be his famous 3 words, “work, work, work”. He was a man with too much to do and not enough time.

He loved being with his family, on holidays, reunions, and birthdays. Even though it would get him behind on all his projects there was never just one he was working on.

His lifelong hobby and passion was building cars and trucks, with his amazing mechanic skills he could fix anything. He was always in the garage. He enjoyed car shows, his trips to Laughlin and Lake Havasu. He loved to fish, camping with friends and family, horseshoes, golfing, and shopping at the mall. There was never a dull moment with Mikie! He was always being silly and making people laugh.

When it came to his yard and garden it had to be perfect. He loved to cook just like his mother. And just like his dad, Sunday roast dinner, fried eggs and toast every morning. There was never a day where it wasn't a five course meal, with all the fixings and Jello. Dad could never sit still. It was always, go, go, go. Anything that kept him busy. Never be lazy, it is a waste of time. You will always be missed by so many, thanks for everything, It is not goodbye it’s see you later, dad!

Preceded in death by his parents and his oldest sister LaRue (Elmer) Gerber, brother in-laws Fred Childs and Lee Evans.

Michael is survived by his wife of 55 years and children. His siblings Wayne (Kathy) Richmond of Stockton, CA, Janet Evans of Springville, Utah, and Anita Childs of Sunset, UT. He has 14 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, who will all miss him dearly.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 3, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. in the Springville Stake Center at 245 South 600 East in Springville.  There will be a viewing held Wednesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South in Springville and at the Stake Center on Thursday from 9:30 to 10:30 prior to the services.

Condolences for the family may be left on this page. For those unable to attend in person, you may view the services HERE

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Sharon Elizabeth Taylor - November 23, 1942 - February 23, 2022

Departed: 02/23/2022 (Springville)

Obituary Preview: Condolences for the family may be left on this page. Click Here to Send a Meaningful Gift

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Facilities and Amenities

The Wheeler Mortuary facility is located at 500 E Third St., Portales, NM, 88130, and is designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for families. The funeral home features spacious visitation rooms, chapels, and reception areas, all tastefully decorated to create a sense of peace and serenity. Additionally, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, ensuring that every service is conducted with dignity and respect.

Services Offered

Wheeler Mortuary offers a comprehensive range of services to support families through every stage of the funeral planning process. From traditional funerals and cremations to memorial services and celebrations of life, the funeral home's experienced staff will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one. They also provide assistance with obituaries, death certificates, and other necessary documentation.

Cremation Services

For families who choose cremation, Wheeler Mortuary offers a range of options to suit their needs. Their cremation services include direct cremation, cremation with memorial service, and traditional funeral with cremation. The funeral home's staff will guide you through the process, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your loved one is treated with dignity.

Pre-Planning and Funeral Funding

Wheeler Mortuary understands the importance of planning ahead and offers pre-planning services to help families prepare for the future. By making arrangements in advance, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, alleviate financial burdens on your loved ones, and gain peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of. The funeral home also provides information on funeral funding options, including insurance and trust funds.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but Wheeler Mortuary is committed to supporting you through the grieving process. They offer bereavement resources, including counseling services, support groups, and online grief support materials. The funeral home's staff is dedicated to helping you navigate this difficult time and find ways to heal and remember your loved one.

Community Involvement

Wheeler Mortuary is deeply rooted in the Portales community and actively participates in local events and initiatives. The funeral home's staff is involved in various charitable organizations and supports local businesses, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to the community they serve.

A Commitment to Excellence

At Wheeler Mortuary, excellence is not just a goal – it's a standard. The funeral home's staff is dedicated to providing exceptional service, attention to detail, and compassionate care to every family they serve. They strive to exceed expectations and ensure that every service is a fitting tribute to the life being celebrated.

In conclusion, Wheeler Mortuary is more than just a funeral home – it's a symbol of hope, comfort, and support during life's most difficult moments. If you're facing the loss of a loved one or simply want to plan ahead, trust Wheeler Mortuary to guide you through the process with kindness, empathy, and expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's often used to share information about the deceased with family, friends, and community members.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to notify others of a person's passing and provide details about their life, such as their accomplishments, interests, and surviving family members. It also serves as a way to honor and celebrate the person's life.

Who typically writes an obituary?

Obituaries are usually written by family members or close friends of the deceased, although funeral homes or mortuaries may also assist in writing them. In some cases, a professional writer or journalist may be hired to write the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about memorial services, charitable donations, or other relevant details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it's recommended to keep it concise, ranging from 100 to 500 words. Longer obituaries may be published online or in specialized publications.

Can I include photos or other multimedia in an obituary?

Yes, many modern obituaries include photos, videos, or other multimedia elements to help tell the story of the person's life. Online obituary platforms often allow for easy uploading and display of these elements.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

Submission guidelines vary depending on the publication or platform. Typically, you'll need to provide the written obituary text and any accompanying photos or multimedia. You may also need to pay a fee for publication.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication, word count, and other factors. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for print publication. Online platforms may offer free or low-cost options.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to control the narrative of their life story. This can be a therapeutic exercise and help ensure that your wishes are respected after your passing.

What is the difference between an obituary and a eulogy?

An obituary is a written notice announcing a person's death and providing biographical information. A eulogy is a speech or written tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial service to celebrate the person's life and legacy.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries can be a great opportunity to share humorous stories or personal anecdotes that showcase the person's personality and spirit.

How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?

When dealing with sensitive information, it's essential to be respectful and considerate of the deceased's privacy and their loved ones' feelings. You may choose to omit certain details or phrase them carefully to avoid causing discomfort.

Can I include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the person's memory and support a cause they cared about.

How long after death should an obituary be published?

The timing of publishing an obituary varies depending on cultural and personal preferences. Typically, it's published within a few days to a week after the person's passing, but it can be delayed for various reasons.

Can I update or correct an already-published obituary?

In some cases, yes. If there are errors or omissions in the original obituary, you may be able to update or correct it through the publication or online platform where it was published.

What if I want to publish an obituary for someone who died many years ago?

This is often referred to as a "delayed" or "belated" obituary. While less common, it can still be a meaningful way to honor someone's memory and share their story with others.

Can I republish an old obituary from years ago?

If you have permission from the original publisher or copyright holder, you may be able to republish an old obituary. Be sure to check copyright laws and regulations before doing so.

How do I find old obituaries from past decades or centuries?

You can search online archives, genealogy websites, libraries, and local historical societies for old obituaries. Many newspapers have digitized their archives, making it easier to access historical records.

What if I'm having trouble finding information about my ancestor's death?

If you're researching your family history and struggling to find information about an ancestor's death, consider consulting with a professional genealogist or seeking out local historical records.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be effective ways to share news of a loved one's passing with friends and family who may not have access to traditional print publications.

Are there any specific rules or guidelines for writing an obituary for a veteran?