Dr. M. Pelli Wheaton

Dr. M. Pelli Wheaton, age 77, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 23, 2021, in Jameson, PA. Of all Pelli’s accomplishments in life, she was proudest of her family, who she loved greatly. Pelli is survived by her son Jonathan Wheaton and wife Janine, of Stockton, NJ; grandchildren Charlie Wheaton and Jack Wheaton of Stockton; brothers Tom Pelli and Russ Pelli of FL; sister Francesca Pelli of CA; and many nieces, nephews, and other family members that she adored.

Pelli was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in Queens. Her educational pursuits brought her to Bennington, VT, but she ultimately found her way back to Manhattan. It was here that she met Herbert F. Wheaton, the great love of her life. Pelli and Herb were married in 1973, and eventually settled on an old farm in Stockton, NJ. While the city girl settled down in the countryside, she never lost the edge or toughness that formed in Ozone Park, Queens. Anyone that cut Pelli off while driving can attest to this. Herb passed away in 1986, but Pelli remained in Stockton to create a loving home for their son, who she loved to brag about. Pelli was fortunate to find love a second time, marrying John T. Cahill in 2004. Afterwards, she split her time between Stockton and John’s home in Alexandria Township, NJ. John passed away in 2016.

Dr. Pelli Wheaton lived a life of service. She spent more than 25 years as a mental health counselor and teacher in NJ. Pelli was the Coordinating Director of the Stockton Counseling Associates and the founder of the outreach program People Helping People. Dr. Pelli also taught counseling as a member of the adjunct faculty at both Rider University and the College of New Jersey. Pelli believed in human potential and the power of an abundance mindset. Her proudest professional achievement was the 2002 publication of her book, Why Doesn’t God Give Me A Sign That I Can Change My Life? The book reminds readers that an individual’s thumbprint is the ultimate symbol of each person’s unique potential.

Due to Covid-19, a private memorial service and burial will take place at the Sandy Ridge Cemetery in Stockton, NJ under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Dementia Society of America in her name.

For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.