William Edward Wilkerson

William Edward Wilkerson passed away May 18, 2026 at the age of 87. He was born September 25, 1938 to the late Charles Cornelius and David M. Wilkerson.

He was preceded in death by his son, Alan Dale Wilkerson; brother, Thomas Marshall Wilkerson and sister, Jean Autrey Wilkerson Ledbetter.

Known for his punctuality and unwavering dependability, William was truly someone you could count on. After retiring from sales, he didn’t slow down; instead, he channeled his energy and passion into starting a lawn care business, which he successfully operated in Selma for many years. It was in caring for the land that he found joy, reflecting a deep connection to the outdoors that stayed with him all his life.

His love for the outdoors was not limited to his work. William had a great enthusiasm for hunting deer, a pastime that reflected both patience and perseverance. Still, perhaps few knew his softer side better than those who shared in his laughter. William had a unique ability to bring joy to family and friends by pranking them with good-natured humor, brightening even the toughest days with his mischievous spirit. One of his cherished joys was arm wrestling with his son, moments of playful competition that showcased the strong bond they shared. He held a special bond with Theresa Cammack and Johnathan Wilkerson, who he revered as his adoptive children.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joanne Wilkerson; son, William "Tad" (Peggy) Wilkerson; granddaughters, Rachel L. (Aaron) Rinehart, Melanie K. (Henry) Weber; great-grandchildren, Lilah Rinehart and Drake Weber; brothers, Charles C. "Jim" (Ruby) Wilkerson and Bobby Lee Wilkerson; sister-in-law, Bebe Wilkerson; his beloved companion, Buddy and host nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home with Pastor Jim Lee officiating. Interment will follow at Pineview Memory Gardens. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., prior to the service.

Pallbearers will be Johnathan Wilkerson, David Wilkerson, Bryan Ledbetter, Aaron Rinehart, Henry Weber and Lance Krunosky. Honorary pallbearers will be Carrell Shoultz, Roger Coleman and Medfort Pharr.