Ronney Bert Wheeler

Ronney Bert Wheeler, 75 of Sanford passed away on Tuesday, December 22, 2020. Due to Covid-19 there will not be any services.

Ronney was preceded in death by his parents James Harold Wheeler Jr. and LaMargaret Jacks Wheeler and a sister Cindy LaMargaret Rostas.

Ronney is survived by his wife Penny Faye Rosser; daughter Tracy Amanda Wheeler of New Orleans, Louisana and son Brett Christopher Wheeler of Waco, Texas; Mother-in-law Mae Rosser of Sanford, NC and Brother-in-law Rodney Rosser of Sanford, NC.

Ron loved his wife and children unconditionally and protected them fiercely. His strength, courage, and his love are forever with them. Ron was an expert hunter, fisherman, and outdoors man. He had a deep love of the woods and a oneness with nature. He was a diehard Alabama Football Fan. After High School, Alabama Coach Bear Bryant sent Ron an invitation letter asking him to try out for the football team. If Ron had not already signed a letter of intent with the Navy, he would have jumped at that opportunity.

Ron was an Honorably Discharged Navy Veteran. He loved his country and proudly served on one of the first two Navy Seal teams established by President John F. Kennedy in the 1960s. Ron’s Navy career ended when he was severely injured by enemy forces.

Ron was a master Associated Press photographer. He spent many years doing free-lance work for magazines like Vogue, National Geographic, and Southern Living. Stephen Spielberg tapped Ron to photograph scenes from “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”. While at the Mobile Press in 1973, Ron was recognized by the Associated Press for the Best Photo Portfolio.

Online Condolences may be made at www.rogerspickard.com

Arrangements are by Rogers-Pickard Funeral Home.