Kurt Lee Wheeler (RU-1983) has a lot to celebrate this holiday season. In addition to enjoying teaching at Creekland Middle School in Canton, the singer, songwriter, and guitarist recently released a new album and performed in a movie that premiered on Thanksgiving Day.
After hearing Wheeler’s music, movie producer and actress Roberta Sparta asked him to perform in the Secret Life of a Good Wife for the Lifetime Movie Network. The movie, starring Katy Wilson and Jason Frederick, and directed by Haylie Duff, is about a newlywed and her sister uncovering dangerous secrets after their mother disappears. In a scene filmed in Acworth, Georgia, Wheeler and his band performed during the portrayal of an outdoor social gathering.
‘It was a bit surreal to see myself and friends playing along to a song that I wrote,” exclaimed Wheeler. “I am excited and proud to have the song ‘Faces’ in a movie.”
Wheeler attended Reinhardt in 1983 and lived in Cobb Hall. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1984 to 1989 and released his first album in 1992. His new album, Lathemtown, features some of the best bluegrass players in the country, including Aaron Ramsey on mandolin and banjo, Jake Stargel on guitar, John Rice on fiddle, and Producer Jeff Partin playing dobro guitar and bass. In Cherokee County, Wheeler is known for writing the county’s official song and performing at local events, including school fundraisers.
Wheeler plans to retire from teaching this May. He hopes to spend time with his new grandchild, travel, and continue to make music.
– By Suzy Alstrin
