Jonesboro- Vallia Juanita Wheeler, 79, passed away on September 24, 2025. Born in Senath, MO, on September 10, 1946, she was the daughter of  the late Lyman Ellis and Christina Marie Kelley Crites.

Juanita was a woman of deep faith and quiet strength. She found joy in the simple things—crossword puzzles both on her iPad and in traditional form, sewing with care and creativity, and most of all, spending cherished time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her love for family was the thread that stitched her days together.

She is survived by her daughter, Robyn Smith of Jonesboro; two sons, Greg Wheeler of Monette and Chad Wheeler of Lepanto; and her half-brother, Bobby Crites of Leachville. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Clint Wheeler (Miranda), Hunter Smith (Nan Lee), Whitney Stepp (Ben), Haley Smithee (Blake), Ethan Wheeler, Courtney Gibbs (Dustin), and Brittney Neff (Austin); and her great-grandchildren: Lennon, Raelyn, Addison, Madelyn, Brady, Lila, Anna, Piercely, Elijah, Win, Enoch, Isaiah, and one great-granddaughter to arrive in 2026.

Juanita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Dean Wheeler; her brother Kelley Crites; sisters Rita Crites Todd and Veeta Crites Stanley; and two half-brothers and two half-sisters.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Monette Assembly of God, with Austin Neff officiating. A visitation will precede the service starting at 10:00 AM at the church. She will be laid to rest in Monette Cemetery following services. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Clint Wheeler, Hunter Smith, Ethan Wheeler, Lennon Wheeler, Ben Stepp, Blake Smithee, and Dustin Gibbs.