March 3, 1943 – June 20, 2015 Edna Jeanette Gee was born March 3, 1943, in Bennettsville, South Carolina. She was one of fourteen children born to Limas and Canarie Gee. Edna relocated to Washington, DC at the age of 14 and attended District of Columbia Public Schools. She graduated from Cardozo High School and pursued a degree in accounting from a community college. November 23, 1968, she married Gilbert F. Wheeler, Sr. and their union produced five children. Mr. Wheeler preceded her in death in 2004. Her surviving children are: Gilbert F. Wheeler, Jr., Clarice Wimbush (Harry), Frederick V. Wheeler Sr. (Salve), Darlene Gunn (Mark Santos) and Pamela Prather (James). She is survived by 19 grandchildren who will miss her tenderness and loving care. Edna’s engaging personality and strong work ethic enabled her to transition through several successful business careers. She was one of a few African American women hired to work in the accounting department at Raleigh’s Department store in the District of Columbia. She worked there for 23 years until its closing. She then worked for 17 years as a Receiving/Accounting for the Diplomatic Duty Free Shop, Inc. It was her innate gift for the beauty and artistry of flowers that led her to a position as a floral designer for many years at Bolling Air Force Base. She then served as Church Secretary for Galbraith A.M.E. Zion Church for four years until her health declined. As hard as Edna worked in business she worked even harder for God and Church. Her many contributions of service to Galbraith include Lay Council President, member and President of the Altar Guild, member and President of the Gospel Choir, and member (soprano) Sanctuary Choir. Edna was consecrated as a Deaconess on February 15, 1996 under the appointment of Rev. Fredrick B. Massey, Sr. Edna loved music and singing. It is Edna’s gift for floral design that delighted Galbraith A.M.E. Zion Church each Sunday for more than two decades. She took pleasure in the compliments she received but she saw her mission as first and always, “to please God” with her designs and if her gift made someone happy, she was careful to give God the glory. The twinkle in her eye, warm smile, hearty laughter, listening ear and calming manner was sought by co-workers, acquaintances, friends, and family. Perhaps your memory of Edna may be … A big smile A burst of laughter at a silly joke A floral bouquet that made you say “My God, How Great Thou Art!” Sharing a moment of happiness with you on your accomplishments Sharing tears and sharing a prayer with you in your sad times …. Rejoice! She has slipped away but she left a bouquet of beautiful memories just for you. PSALM 23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Edna’s visitation will be held at Advent Funeral & Cremation Services , 9013 Annapolis Rd., Lanham, MD on Friday, June 26th from 7-9pm. Her memorial service in celebration of her life will be held at Galbraith AME Zion Church, 1114 6th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 on Saturday, June 27th at 11am.