12/18/2025
It was a wonderful honor to get to have this special presentation to honor Mr. Billy Frank Wheeler for his lifelong commitment to making Bledsoe Co a better place for everyone.
From the Tennessee State Senate .... Billy Frank Wheeler was born into a family of architects. An architect is defined as a person who designs and configures a program or system. Mr. Wheeler was specifically an architect of his community. ...... Born June 2, 1936 to a pair of educators at the Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga, he was destined to serve his community and develop the minds of Bledsoe County's Youth. ..... Billy Frank graduated Bledsoe County High School and promptly entered college at University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tn. While in school he enlisted in the United States Army, where his service to his community began. He was deployed to Korea during that time. ..... After returning from Korea, Mr. Wheeler eagerly finished his education and returned to Bledsoe County to serve its developing minds in the school system. During this time, he served as the Staff Representative to the Future Farmers of America, enriching his love for agriculture. ..... After his 20 years in education, Billy Frank was elected County Executive, which would later be transitioned to County Mayor. ...... During his time as mayor, Mr. Wheeler was the architect of projects to enrich Pikeville and Bledsoe County. He spearheaded the renovation of our county courthouse and he was involved in the construction of the Highway 127 bypass. .... His devotion to the county continued through his tireless work to secure Hubbard Farm as the largest employer in Bledsoe County. Mr. Wheeler was also an intrigal part of the negotiations with Erlanger Medical Systems, providing healthcare to the entire Sequatchie Valley. ..... With every ounce of time devoted it is our pleasure to present him with this Proclamation for his service in the state and local community. This Proclamation is presented by the Tennessee Senate, Speaker of the Senate - Randy McNally and Senator Todd Gardenhire.
