Twyla Lorraine Wheaton

Twyla Lorraine Wheaton Age 84 | Toledo, Ohio Twyla Lorraine Wheaton, age 84, of Toledo, Ohio, peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home on December 17, 2025. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Emmett L. and Geneva Y. Wheaton; her brother, Wendell Wheaton; sister, Mary Wheaton and niece Joya Wheaton.

Twyla Wheaton's legacy is deeply interwoven into the rich history of Toledo, Ohio. She came from a family committed to the community. Her grandfather, Attorney Wheaton, was among the first African American attorneys in Toledo, helping to pave the way for future generations. Her father, Emmett Wheaton, worked for Jeep and was active in the Toledo Jeep Union, while her mother, Geneva Wheaton, devoted her career to educating children as a teacher with Toledo Public Schools. 

Born on June 23, 1941, in Toledo, Ohio, and raised in Swanton, Ohio, Twyla’s life was deeply rooted in faith, education, and service. A lifelong learner and dedicated educator, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Toledo, as well as a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Wayne State University, May 6, 1997. Twyla devoted her professional career to Toledo Public Schools, serving for over 40 years as a Teacher and Library/Media Specialist. Twyla began her career with Toledo Public Schools in January 1968, Retired in September 2001, was rehired November 2006 and retired again July 2012. She cherished her students and found great joy in witnessing their academic achievements and life successes. Maintaining contact with many of them was important to her, as she valued those lasting connections. Her official retirement in September 2001, earned her numerous commendations for her excellence, leadership, and commitment to student success.

Twyla Wheaton was a devoted and steadfast member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Toledo Alumnae Chapter, for more than fifty years. Her legacy of service was exemplified through her faithful leadership as Chair of the Heritage and Archives Committee, where she served under numerous chapter presidents, carefully preserving and honoring the chapter’s rich history. She also served as Chair of the Social Action Committee and became affectionately known as “Sister Social Action” for her tireless advocacy, civic engagement, and dedication to justice. Twyla remained actively involved in membership activities throughout her years of service, including serving on the intake committee for the 2001 Delta Line, “The 21 Jewels of Excellence.” A true Delta in every sense, she loved her sorority deeply and proudly wore her crimson and cream, leaving an enduring example of sisterhood, leadership, and service.

Beyond her sorority commitments, Twyla was deeply involved in community and civic service. She worked tirelessly with the NAACP, Southern Christian Leadership Conference–Toledo Chapter, and various committees focused on education and voter empowerment. Most notably, she was a dedicated and longstanding volunteer with the Lucas County Democratic Party, where she served as a Precinct Captain and supported numerous federal, state, and local candidates throughout the years. Twyla’s unwavering faith anchored her life and service. She was an active and devoted member of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, where she faithfully served through the Rosary Altar Society and in other capacities as needed, always answering the call to serve with humility and grace for over 30 years.

Above all, Twyla treasured time spent with her family and close friends. She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved sister, Charlotte Jo Wheaton; Half sister, Anna Bell Wheaton; nieces, Gretchen Wheaton, Ryah Wheaton & Bridgett M. Wheaton; nephews, Anthony Wheaton (Marilyn); Emmett L. Wheaton III, Wendell L. Wheaton Jr. (Michelle), Terry & Harry Slaughter; great-nieces, Courtney S. Wheaton, Teah Brandell, Avery Wheaton, Jaslynn Wheaton, Janyah Williams & Beyonce G. Taylor, Sabree Taylor: great nephews, Brenton Wheaton (Randy), Jameel Thompson & Denzel Wheaton(Maria); cousins, Leslie Poellnitz (Bill), Gail Austin, Gee Gee Taite, family in Gary, IN and a host of additional family members, many friends, colleagues, and former students whose lives she touched in lasting ways.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Omega Omega Service: Saturday, December 27, 2025 9:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. Visitation: Saturday, December 27, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Funeral Service: Saturday, December 27, 2025 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Location: St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church 1119 W. Bancroft Street Toledo, Ohio