Sandra Rose Wheatley, 81, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, in West Plains, Missouri.

Sandra was born on August 9, 1944, to Verdie Lee McElmurry and Opal Francis (Bise) McElmurry. She was raised with strong family values and a caring spirit that remained with her throughout her life.

On January 11, 1992, Sandra was united in marriage to Bill Wheatley, in Pottersville, Missouri. Together they shared many happy years until his passing. 

Sandra dedicated 26 years of service as the manager of Lamp Light Village before retiring. She was known for her hard work, kindness, and the lasting friendships she built throughout her career. A woman who found joy in life's simple pleasures, Sandra loved planting and caring for flowers, creating beauty wherever she lived. She also shared a special bond with her beloved dog, Frank, who was her constant companion. Her love, guidance, and compassion touched countless lives, and she was dearly loved by those who knew her. She was of the Methodist faith.

She is survived by her daughter, Melanie Howard and husband, Michael, of Paradise, California; and her stepdaughters, Sue Wersinger and husband, Keith, of Bondurant, Iowa; and Janet Wheatley and fiancé, Deron, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her brother, David McElmurry and wife, Dolores, of West Plains, Missouri; two sisters, Joann Walker of Monmouth, Oregon, and Mary Schmeltz and husband, Greg, of Lake Charles, Louisiana; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Verdie and Opal McElmurry; her husband, Bill Wheatley; and two brothers, Jim Burns and Bert McElmurry.

The family will have a celebration of Sandra’s life at a future date