Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

April 1, 2026

Jean McLamb Wheless passed away early in the morning of April 1, 2026, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s.  She was predeceased by her parents William O. McLamb, Jr. and Ann Jennette McLamb both of Kinston, NC, and husband of 55 years, Charles Wheless, Jr.  Jean is survived by her brother, Edward W. McLamb, and sister-in-law Carol Ann McLamb of Charlotte, NC,  nephews Jeffrey W. McLamb (wife, Dr. Maia Gil’ Adi) of Boston, MA, and Phillip W. McLamb (wife Amanda) of Charlotte, NC, grandnieces Piper Elizabeth McLamb and Isla Mae McLamb both of Charlotte, NC.  Extended family consists of many cousins on both the McLamb and Jennette sides of the family.

Jean was born in Kinston, NC on July 10, 1950, and attended Grainger High School in Kinston and Louisburg College, graduating in 1970. She was a faithful follower of the Kinston Red Devils and the UNC Tarheel basketball teams. 

Jean loved her family with root extending back to her grandparents’ family farms.  Growing up in a large extended family meant trips to the farm where strong family ties were built and cherished.  Many beach vacations were enjoyed where food and family were at the center of all gatherings. Thanksgiving at the farm especially provided fare which was a sight to behold.  The next generation is carrying on the tradition. 

After college Jean worked in Raleigh where she and Charlie met.  After experiencing life in other parts of the country during the 1970’s, Jean and Charlie returned to Raleigh.

Raleigh was their home of choice given the weather, proximity to family and the coast. Living in Raleigh most of her adult life, she held several executive assistant positions.  Of note were positions at Cooper Tools and Martin Marietta.  She left Martin Marietta to enter the family business, Capital Shutter and Blinds.  Jean and Charlie served primarily residential and commercial contractors.  One of the last projects for Jean and Charlie prior to retirement was providing the shutters in the sanctuary at Hayes Barton Baptist Church.

Jean was an active in Hayes Barton Baptist Church. She was a member of the Danielson Sunday School Class and the Chancel Choir.  Jean enjoyed ladies’ retreats and choir retreats as well as mission projects.  She was loved by her Church and her Church friends.

Jean’s favorite place for years was 8 ½ Marina Village at Atlantic Beach.  She loved sunset cruises to the point on the Outer Banks, watching the sunset over the Bogue Sound, and entertaining her friends with good home cooking.  Like her mother, Jean was cooking Farm-to-Table before it became popular.

Jean’s final wish was to sit on her deck one more time and watch the sunset over the Bogue Sound and experience the peace that it brings.  Rest in peace sweet Jean and may you enjoy many beautiful sunsets.

A memorial service will be held at Hayes Barton Baptist Church, 1800 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27608 on Friday, April 10, 2026, with service at 2:00.  Visitation will be following the service.

Our family wishes to thank the compassionate caregivers of Aldersgate/Cuthbertson Memory Care (Nola, Tisha, Oletha, Patricia, and Kim) and the compassionate caregivers of Via Health Partners/Hospice (Rachelle, Michelle, Meg, Aquita, and Joi). Jean left her imprint on them as expressed her caregivers.

Memorials may be sent to the School of Music Scholarship Fund (IMO Jean Wheless towards SoM Scholarship) either by check mailed to HBBC, 1800 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27608 or online at the HBBC.org , through the “GIVE” button, “Fund” drop-down and click option for School of Music - Contributions. On the memo line specify (IMO Jean Wheless towards SoM Scholarship).

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.