Wylene Wheeler Tolbert was born October 30, 1935 in Mitchell County, GA to the late Robert Wheeler & Sadie Mae (Willis) Wheeler. She entered into eternal rest on Holy Thursday April 2, 2026.

Raised in Greenough, GA by her parents she enjoyed the experience of extended family and was no stranger to hard work. Cotton picking and cropping tobacco were a normal part of her work activities. She was educated in the Mitchell County Public School System. Wylene married Earnest Coleman Tolbert May 3, 1952. To this union 8 children were born. Three of the eight children were stillborn.

Earnest and Wylene moved to Albany, GA in 1959. She and Earnest joined First Mt. Olive Baptist Church where she sang in the Senior Choir and was a Deaconess for over 30 years.

Wylene had a very strong alto voice and was a lead singer and soloist. She was one of the featured soloist in St. Teresa’s Gospel Choir.

Wylene had been cooking since she was ten years old so it’s no surprise her profession was in the food industry. She worked at Varsity Restaurant, The Artic Bear and Aunt Fannie’s to name a few.

Wylene was preceded in death by her husband, Earnest Tolbert, her parents Robert & Sadie Wheeler, her daughter Beverly June Martin and two brothers Robert Wheeler and Marshall Wheeler.

She leaves to cherish her memories her children: Yvonne Tolbert Christian-Sherman (Roy) who was her caretaker for the last 5 years, Harrison (Jacquelyn) Tolbert, Marvin Tolbert and Sherita Tolbert Kelly. A sister Earlene Wheeler Johnson. Two sisters in laws Ella Reese Wheeler and Georgia Tolbert. Her legacy includes her grandchildren (11) two proceeded her in death, great grandchildren (14) and great-great grandchildren (4) and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

Wylene affectionally referred to as “Wy” was a testament of perseverance and faith. Rest in peace and may your legacy of love and kindness last for many generations.