Robert E Wilkes

Robert Earl Wilkes, 68, of Rockford, departed his life on Sunday, August 21, 2011. He was born January 31, 1943 in Whiteville TN. He graduated from high school in the Tennessee School District. Robert served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he was stationed in Oklahoma. He worked at Reed-Chatwood as a machinist, where he retired. Robert moved back to Rockford where he met and married Christine Leach in 1967. Robert was a faithful member of Mt. Goshen Full Gospel Baptist Church, under the leadership of Bishop Betty Barlow, also a life-long friend to her and her family. Robert enjoyed reading, sports, being in the presence of his grandchildren, and talking on the phone with his older brother Gig, and cousin Roscoe. Robert Earl is survived by his loving partner Christine Leach, to this reunion they were blessed with six children; Maurice, Maury, Troy, Sharon, Marcellous, and Sheattone, 11 grandchildren; Mershon, Deja, Kala, Mariah, Myron, Terrell, Britney, Marquez, Rashond, Trent, and Octavius; 3 brothers; Elvyn (Diane) Wilkes of VA, Moses Neeley JR, and Leon Neely both of Detroit, three sisters, Jeannette (Clarence) Neely-Stevens of Houston, Annette (Michael) Flagg, Glenda (Jake) Witherspoon both of Michigan, and respected mother in law, Christine Russel, as well as several nieces, nephews, and friends, and special friend William Moore. He is preceded in death by his parents Moses and Josephine Neely and one brother, Clifton Neely. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 27, at 11 a.m. at Mt. Goshen Full Gospel Baptist Church, 1102 Cunningham St. Rockford, 61102, Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Bishop Betty Barlow will conduct the services. www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com