With love and thanksgiving for a life well lived, we remember Melva Bee Anderson Wheeler, who passed away on Thursday, March 2, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 96.

Melva was born on July 23, 1929, in Wynona, Oklahoma, to Ruth E. Paddock and Dan Setzer.

Melva's life reflected the resilience of a generation that knew hardship and learned to persevere through it. As a young woman, she married early and stepped quickly into the responsibilities of adult life. In spite of a difficult childhood, she managed to graduate valedictorian at Kaw City of her class of eighteen. After being a homemaker and mother, she rose up to be an office manager at Prudential, working there till her retirement.

Over the years, Melva's life carried her from a small town in Oklahoma to Japan, and finally Tulsa, Oklahoma. Through each chapter, she carried herself with quiet strength, adapting to life's changes while remaining devoted to her family. She knew the ordinary sacrifices of family life, and through those quiet acts of love and duty, she left a legacy that continues on in those who came after her.

Melva was preceded in death by her son, Rodney Anderson, her husband Jeff Anderson, and husband Walter Wesley Wheeler.

She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Carolyn Anderson; her grandsons, David Anderson and his wife, Stephanie in Ohio, and Douglas Anderson and his wife, Dorcas in Singapore; and her great-grandchildren, Joshua Anderson, Miriam Anderson, Caleb Anderson, and Evan Anderson.

Those who knew Melva will remember her strength, her perseverance, and the way she continued faithfully through the many seasons of life. We trust that she now rests in the peace and presence of the Lord, and we give thanks for the life she lived and the family legacy she leaves behind.

"You make known to me the path of life. You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." - Psalm 16:11

She will be dearly missed and joyfully remembered until that day when with Jesus we will meet again.

Graveside service will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa, Oklahoma.