Walter Franklin "Red" Wilkins, 87, of Stonewall, Mississippi, passed away on September 12, 2023, at Anderson Regional Medical Center.
He was born on January 3, 1936, to Samuel and Lee Ardella (King) Wilkins in Stonewall, MS.
Red was kind, generous, unassuming, caring, thoughtful and seemingly simple, but in reality, a very complicated man. He was an intelligent, well-educated and a very competent man who faced career-limiting medical challenges early in his life, at a time before causes were understood, and before treatments were available. He gave no excuses. He was a good listener who did not interrupt or try to impose his will onto others. He was a constant observer but extremely reluctant to reveal anything negative about anyone. Even then, he related facts as he saw them, devoid of judgment. He loved making others laugh, and always had many stories ready to do just that, often having his own laughter make it difficult for him to finish the telling. Little kids and small children were drawn to him, to which he would giggle in delight. He was an absolutely irreplaceable treasure.
Red is survived by his 12 nieces and nephews, Lucille Rasco, Carolyn Wilkins Gezon, Toby Scott, Ruth Fairley, Terry Scott, J. W. Scott, David Scott, Raymond Scott, Wayne Hemmingway, Cheryl Gibson, Bill Wilkins, and Beth Sullivan.
He was preceded in death by his father, Samuel McDaniel Wilkins; mother, Lee Ardella Wilkins; four brothers, Carley Wilkins, Samuel Lee Wilkins, Henry Grover Wilkins, and Edgar Wilkins; and three sisters, Maggie Scott, Lois Pittman, and Annie Hemmingway.
Pallbearers are Troy Smith, Charles Martin, Larry Bonner, Walter Taylor, Corey Furline, and Ben Moore.
Visitation will be held Saturday, September 16, 2023, after 10:00 a.m. at Stonewall Baptist Church, Stonewall, Mississippi.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Stonewall Baptist Church with Rev. Ray Files officiating.
A private burial will take place in the Union Baptist Church Cemetery.
Our deepest appreciation to his many friends and co-workers who were so lovingly helpful and provided such extensive support, especially to Robin and Brother Ray, who so enriched his life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your favorite charity. Online condolences can be given at www.wrightsfuneral.com.
Submitted by Wright’s Funeral Home
