Stephen "Bubby Jay" Wheeler, 66, of Walnut Ridge passed from this life on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro.  He was born February 3, 1957, in Monette to the late Ernest and Lela (Ross) Wheeler. He was united in marriage to Loretta Chappel on May 22, 1981, in Walnut Ridge.  He retired from Waste Pro after many years and was of the Baptist belief. Bubby Jay loved the outdoors and camping with his wife, Loretta.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Ed, Norman, and Gary; sisters, Glenda, Virginia, Betty, and Kathryn.

He is survived by his wife of the home; sons, Tony Wheeler (Anna Guest) Hoxie and Travis Wheeler (Catherine) of Walnut Ridge; grandchildren, Annabelle and Gavin; and many other extended family members and friends.

Visitation will be Sunday, April 2, 2023, from 2 until 4 p.m. at Cox Funeral Home in Walnut Ridge.  Funeral services will be Monday, April 3, 2023, at 12 p.m. with Roger Tidwell officiating. Interment will follow in Austin Cemetery in Walnut Ridge under the direction of Cox Funeral Home in Walnut Ridge.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Charlie Mitchell, Steven Perryman, Greg "Percy" Arender, Donnie Galbreath, David Looney, and Dean Blackwell.

Honorary pallbearer will be Dexter Parker.