Mary Wheeler Joseph was carried to her heavenly home by God's angels on Wednesday, January 20, 2021.  On February 14, 1927 in the town of Church Point, La., God blessed Issac and Gussie (Ceasar) Wheeler with their baby girl.

Mary loved the Lord.  She was a member of Cathedral of Faith for many years under the leadership of the late Pastor Hearnest Arvie, and continued to serve under the current Pastor, Rev. Arthur Cullivan.  She was a member of the Deaconess Ministry, Pastor's Helper, Mission Department, and she faithful attended Sunday School. Sister Mary was affectionately known as "Mom Jo" and was "The Mother of the Church."  She shared her love of cooking by working tirelessly preparing meals for local, district, and state church programs.  Mom Jo was a faithful and dedicated servant and she attended until her health failed.

Mary worked at Rosewood Nursing Home for many years.  Jimmy White recognized Mary's talent and ability to cook.   She was promoted to head cook and transferred to Green Acres Nursing Home which later became Moss Bluff Manor Nursing Home.  Mary dedicated over 35 years preparing meals for nursing home residents.  After retirement, Mary began working for A. Lane and Althea Plauche at the age of 72, and she retired again at the age of 79.

Memories of a loving and devoted mother will live in the hearts of her daughters: Diane Joseph, Gwen Joseph Harris, Tammy Joseph Stephenson (Robert), and Kendryl Joseph and two sons; Albert "Jabo" Wheeler (Emily)Sr., and Lamar Joseph.  Memories of a grandmother's love will always dwell in the hearts of her 34 grandchildren, 101 great-grandchildren, and 33 great-great grandchildren.  Many memories of Sis. Jo are left with her church family and her sister in Christ, Annie Richard of Lake Charles, La. Mary was the WHEELER'S FAMILY MATRIACH and her love will live on in a host of family members.  Mary's love will dwell in the memories of the LINCOLN STREET FAMILY in which she lived by "It Takes A Village To Raise A Child." Treasuring her friendship, Mary will be missed by "THE PORCH LADIES", "GOLDEN GIRLS", Mrs. Jessie Mae Jackson and Mrs. Joyce Dobbins Williams.

Mary was greeted by five children; Betty J. Citizen, Leroy "Bug" Joseph, Jr., Gerald "Poochie" Joseph, Sr., Paula Faye Hanchette, and Terrell Wade Joseph.  Issac and Gussie (Ceasar) greeted their baby girl along with her five brothers:  Gilley, Hurd, Ben, Ike, and Abraham Wheeler, and five sisters: Alberta W. Willis, Julia W. Wilridge, Josephine W. Wilridge, Gussie W. Henderson, and Baby Theresa. Mary was preceded in death by one grandson, two great granddaughters and two great-grandsons.

A public visitation will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., and a private family service at 11:00 a.m., at New Faith Baptist Church, 4211 Opelousas Street, Rev. Arthur Cullivan, officiating and Rev. Carl Joseph delivering the Eulogy.

In accordance with state regulations, attendees are required to wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines.  Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.kingsfuneralhomela.com .