Elmer "Gary" Wheat

Gary Wheat, 77, formerly of North Little Rock, where he was born and raised, made his way to heaven on July 19, 2024. After graduating with a degree in Sociology from Henderson State University, he served as a Little Rock police officer for 12 years. After his time with the Little Rock Police Department, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to own The Downstairs Club in Eureka Springs. Before retiring, Gary worked as an electrician in two manufacturing plants, Wheatland Tube and Novus. He was a hard worker and poured his heart and soul into his jobs while building many lifelong friendships. 

 Gary enjoyed spending time with his family, especially on holidays. He made it a priority to attend his grandkids' special events, like soccer games and band concerts. He enjoyed southern home cooking and would never pass up a good meal. Gary was an avid nature photographer, and you would often find him among the autumn leaves or chasing sunsets.

 As a young adult, Gary attended Gardner United Methodist Church in North Little Rock. Later in life, he enjoyed reading and studying God’s Word and became a student of the Bible. He enjoyed spending time with his church family at The Bible Church of Cabot.

 Gary was preceded in death by his parents, James Elmer Wheat and Inez (Pipkin) Wheat, and a sister, Sandra Wheat. He is survived by a daughter, Felicia Wheat; a son, Aaron (Leslie) Wheat; three grandchildren, John Bruchhagen, Jacee Wheat, and Katelynn Wheat; and a nephew, Alex (Angi) Orsini.

 Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 24, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. at Smith Funeral Home in Sherwood, Arkansas. There will be a celebration of life at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at The Bible Church of Cabot, followed by interment at 3:00 p.m. at Sardis Cemetery in Stamps, Arkansas.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Gary Wheat to The Bible Church of Cabot at www.biblechurchofcabot.com/give or 1400 South Pine St. Cabot, AR 72023.