Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Independent Insurance Experts in Lake City
The Wheeler Agency has been dedicated to providing personalized insurance solutions to families and businesses in Lake City since 1969. Founded by Ed Wheeler, our agency was built on principles of trust, community involvement, and unwavering commitment to client needs. As an independent insurance agency, we prioritize finding coverage that aligns with our clients' financial goals and lifestyle requirements rather than representing any single insurance company. Our team of licensed professionals brings decades of combined experience in personal and commercial insurance, including specialized knowledge in property, casualty, and life insurance products. We distinguish ourselves through our deep local roots, active participation in community organizations like the Rotary Club and Hopeful Baptist Church, and our advocacy during the insurance claims process.Our staff maintains expertise in emerging risks such as flood insurance and wind mitigation while preserving the personal service that characterized our original office above Lake City's Rexall Drug store. We emphasize transparency in policy terms, educate clients about coverage options, and provide 24/7 support for claim guidance. Our generational experiencefrom Ed Wheeler's founding in 1969 to current leadership by John Wheelerensures continuity of values while embracing modern insurance technologies. We demonstrate authoritativeness through professional designations like Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) and active participation in industry associations. Our commitment to ethical practices is evidenced by our role as community advocates, including organizing educational events for local church leaders about business risk management.
Services
Auto Insurance
Homeowners Insurance
Business Insurance
Flood Insurance
Workers Compensation
RV Insurance
Boat Insurance
Umbrella Liability
Commercial Auto
Dwelling Coverage
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- We work for you, not insurance companies, as independent agents.
- Our team includes Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters with specialized expertise.
- We provide 24/7 claims advocacy and policyholder education.
- Active community involvement since 1969 demonstrates local commitment.
- We offer personalized coverage solutions for unique insurance needs.
Services
Auto Insurance
We provide comprehensive auto insurance solutions tailored to individual drivers and families. Our policies protect against liability, collision, and uninsured motorists while offering discounts for safe driving records and multi-policy bundling. Our agents help clients understand coverage options and select appropriate deductibles based on their specific needs.
Homeowners Insurance
Our homeowners insurance policies cover property damage from common perils like fire, wind, and theft. We offer specialized coverage for Florida-specific risks including sinkhole damage and flood protection. Our agents explain policy details about dwelling coverage limits and personal property valuation methods to ensure adequate protection.
Business Insurance
We create customized commercial insurance packages for small businesses in North Florida. Our offerings include general liability, property insurance, and workers' compensation policies. Our team understands unique business risks and helps clients navigate requirements for certificates of liability and hold harmless agreements.
Flood Insurance
We provide flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program and private carriers. Our agents assess clients' flood risk based on location and help determine appropriate coverage limits. We explain policy exclusions and the claims process for water-related damages not covered by standard homeowners policies.
Workers Compensation
Our workers' compensation insurance solutions protect businesses against claims from work-related injuries or illnesses. We help employers understand state requirements, manage payroll reporting, and implement safety programs. Our team provides ongoing support for claims management and return-to-work programs.
People
John Wheeler
Agency Owner
Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter with over 20 years in insurance. Former special education teacher who joined the family business in 1999. Active in local organizations including Rotary Club and Boy Scouts Troop 85.
Melissa Harden
Personal Lines Agent
Licensed agent specializing in auto, home, and recreational vehicle insurance. Active Disney enthusiast who travels extensively in her RV. Member of Hopeful Baptist Church with four daughters and eight grandchildren.
Priscilla Wheeler
General Lines Agent
Co-founder with 54 years of insurance experience. Formerly held multiple roles including bookkeeper and HR manager. Now partially retired but maintains active involvement in cattle ranching and client service.
Marcy Shepherd
Personal Lines Agent
Licensed agent with equine sports expertise. Active church choir member who enjoys outdoor activities like camping and kayaking. Supports daughters' college equestrian activities while managing insurance client needs.
Kate Weiss
Personal Lines Agent
Florida native specializing in auto, home, and recreational insurance. Passionate traveler who enjoys water sports and poolside relaxation. Combines insurance expertise with understanding of local climate-related coverage needs.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Lake City and surrounding areas in North Florida.
Are you available after business hours?
While our office hours are Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm, we provide 24/7 claims support.
How do you differ from other agencies?
As independent agents, we work for you rather than specific insurance companies.
Can you help with specialized insurance needs?
Yes, we offer coverage for unique risks including flood insurance and recreational vehicles.
Do you offer policy reviews?
Yes, we provide free insurance check-ups to ensure your coverage remains appropriate.
How do I file a claim?
Contact us directly or your insurance company - we'll guide you through the process.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Clay Boutwell
Jun 15, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Responsiveness
The Wheeler Agency is always there when I have a question. More than once they have found better policies for our personal and business needs.
The Wheeler Agency is always there when I have a question. More than once they have found better policies for our personal and business needs.
Tl O.
Jan 05, 2018
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We were very pleased with the quickness of paperwork being completed and processed while getting the best rate possible. The staff was friendly and proficient. Mr. Wheeler himself stayed during their lunch break to make copies of our closing papers so we did not have to return later.
Rich S.
May 20, 2017
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Both you and your staff are very responsive to our needs. You treat us as a customer not just a number. We are comfortable talking with you and your agents. It is not always 100% business. I believe that you care about us also. You handled our issues or concerns like they were your own. Now hopefully we have the loyalty with the insurance companies that were chosen and rates don't go crazy after your initial joining up cost. Thanks for asking.
Edna Hindson
May 18, 2017
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Is has been my pleasure to use the Wheeler Agency for all of my insurance needs since around 1975. During this time period I have had several situation to seek their advice and assistance. Each time I called, I spoke to a REAL person, never having to selection #1 for...#2...and then listen to annoying music while I wait. I have always received immediate attention to my concerns and quick appropriate action was always taken. One emergency situation, connected to the City, the Wheeler Agency arrived at my door step before the City trucks arrived. This is a family business and they treat me as one
