Dottis Athlea Mathews Wheat

Dottis Athlea Mathews Wheat, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, passed away at Heritage Health Care in Hammond on Tuesday, October 27, 2020, at the age of 86. She was born on July 4, 1934, in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, the daughter of the late Clarence William Mathews and Katie Robertson Mathews Clark.

“Dot”, “Athlea” or “Ethel” was a person who enjoyed the simple things life had to offer like cooking, gardening and visiting with her family and friends.  Her passion in life was her time spent on Tangipahoa River where she was known by everyone for her fishing skills and other water activities.  She was a strong lady who lived life to the fullest.  The ferocity in which she took on life’s challenges was admired by all.  She loved being a mom, grandmother and great grandmother.

Athlea is survived by her children, Stephanie Wheat Perrin (Darrell), William "Bill" Wheat, Jr. (Andrea), and Kim Piazza; grandchildren, Brandon (Heather), Tori (Jason), Derek (Jessica), Dana (Flynn), Kristen (Travis), Kellie (Zach), Joshua, and Joey (Samantha); 12 great grandchildren; siblings, Kenneth Mathews, Frankie Henry, Larry Mathews (Betty), Jerry Mathews (Mae), Newton Mathews (Kathy), and Ronnie Mathews (Mima); long time friend and caregiver, Barbara Mercante (Joe); sister in law, Linda Mathews and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Athlea was preceded in death by her husband, William "Bill" Wheat, Sr., step dad, Archie Clark, and infant sister, Frances Jean Mathews.

Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 100 W. Magnolia St., Ponchatoula, Louisiana 70454 on Saturday, October 31, 2020 from 9:00 am until 11:00 am.

A Funeral Service will be held at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home - Ponchatoula, on Saturday at 11:00 am, with Rev. Leon Dunn officiating.

Interment will follow at Sand Hill Cemetery in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, with Rev. Michael Matthews officiating.

Pallbearers will be Brandon Perrin, Joshua Beall, Derek Wheat, Joey Piazza, Trent Perrin and Travis King.

Face masks are mandatory to attend any visitation or service at the funeral home and we ask that you maintain a respectful distance with the family. Thank you for your cooperation.

An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.