Kathleen (Ryan) Wheeler peacefully departed this world at her home on July 31, 2026, holding her husband's hand and in the company of a dear friend. Born on April 24, 1950, in Elmira, NY, Kathleen lived a life filled with love, warmth, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Daughter to the late Lewis and Clio (Decker) Ryan, Kathleen was predeceased by her parents, her beloved sister Linda (Ryan) Taft, her mother-in-law Adaline Wheeler, and sisters-in-law Joanne and Carol Wheeler. She leaves behind a legacy of love with her devoted husband, Gene, whom she married on a snowy December 31, 1969, in Elmira, NY. Together, they built a beautiful family, blessed with four children: Abigail (Timothy) Doolittle, Mathew (Lori) Wheeler, Jeremy (Brande) Wheeler, and Andrew (Cathie) Wheeler. Her pride and joy were her grandchildren: Leah and Jesse Doolittle, Maeve, Quinn, Arya, and Jamie Wheeler. Kathleen is also survived by her cherished siblings, Timothy (Donna) Ryan and Charlene (Donald) Wheeler, and treasured friends Lynne, Marion, Marilyn, and Janet.

An alumna of Elmira Southside High School, Kathleen attended SUNY Geneseo and later returned to complete her undergraduate education at Elmira College before earning a Master of Library Science from SUNY Albany. Her career as a dedicated school librarian at Gardner Road Elementary School and Odessa Montour High School left an indelible mark on countless students. As an administrator for GST BOCES, Kathleen's leadership and mentorship inspired her colleagues and fostered an enriching learning environment.

Kathleen's passion for literacy and learning extended beyond her professional life. A founding member of the Saturday Morning Breakfast gang of "Librarians +1," she cherished the camaraderie and lively discussions shared with her fellow bibliophiles. Her home is a testament to her artistic talents, adorned with her intricate handmade quilts, crocheted afghans, and needlework. Her family was similarly adorned with her excellent seamstress skills.

In addition to her professional accomplishments and artistic pursuits, Kathleen's heart was her greatest strength. Her kindness, generosity, and dedication to her family and friends were unmatched. Kathleen's greatest joy was her family, and she took immense pride in their achievements, always eager to hear about their latest endeavors.

Kathleen's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Chemung County Health Care Services, particularly to Helen, Kathleen's devoted home care nurse, whose compassionate care greatly enhanced Kathleen's quality of life. Special thanks also go to Cortnie, whose dedication and kindness ensured Kathleen's comfort at home during the past year.

Kathleen's nurturing spirit and boundless creativity were matched by her love of reading. She was a voracious reader, always eager to share book recommendations and engage in thoughtful conversation. Her life was a testament to her belief that a librarian's duty to spread a love for reading never ends.

Kathleen Wheeler's memory will forever be cherished, and her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to pay tribute to her memory are encouraged to buy a book for themselves and another to give to a friend. Alternatively, she would encourage people to make a donation to a charity of their choice.

Family will receive anyone wishing to pay their respects at Barber Funeral Home, 413 S. Main Street, Horseheads, NY on Saturday, August 15, 2026 between 11 am and 1 pm.