Thomas Jerry Wheeler, Jr. , 80, of Washington, D.C. went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 26, 2023. He was surrounded at home by his loving and devoted family. Jerry, as he was affectionately called, was born on January 31, 1942, to the late Thomas Wheeler, Sr and Dorothy Palmer (formally Jackson).

Jerry was educated in the D.C. Public School System and a graduate of Spingarn Senior High School, class of 1959. After graduation, Jerry entered his first year of college at Howard University. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted into the military, where he served in the United States Army for several years. During his time of service, Jerry became a Communications Center Specialist. He also completed two years of college, majoring in mechanical engineering. Upon completion of his duty, Jerry returned home to Washington D.C., where he finished his education at Federal City College, obtaining a bachelor's degree.

Jerry started his career as a young adult working for the United States Postal Service. He then moved on to a position with the federal government, working for the United States Government Publishing Office. After 33 years of outstanding service, Jerry happily retired.

Jerry accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age. He grew up attending Purity Baptist Church in Northeast D.C. As Jerry became older, he found his place of worship with the First Baptist Church of North Brentwood. Jerry was a faithful member for many years. He enjoyed singing in the choir and serving wherever needed.

Jerry was an avid bowler, bid whist player and bike rider. He loved his leisure time hobbies; however, nothing brought him more joy than his music. Jerry loved all genres of music and could always be heard humming a tune. Jerry expressed his love for music at a young age. He spent his free time in high school singing with his band, the "The Nobles". Jerry and the band were popular among the local schools in their neighborhood. They even garnered the nickname, "The Stairwell Harmonizers", affectionately bestowed upon by their high school principal.

Jerry was proceeded in death by his father and his mother. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved daughter Colette Price, his devoted son-in-law Keith Price, his grandson Landon Price, his sister Janice Gray and her children Andre' Gray, Dennis Gray (Linda) and Denise Gray, and a bonus daughter Sarah Cook; all of whom he loved dearly. Jerry also leaves a host of great nieces and nephews, loving cousins, relatives and friends.

Arrangements a viewing will be held at A.L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home on Monday, February 6, 2023 at 10:30 AM followed by a funeral service at 11:30 AM. The interment will follow at Quantico National Cemetery at 2:00 PM.