Rita Walker Wilkes

The only child of the late Thomas Cicero Walker and Katie Irene Blanton Walker Pierce, Rita was born at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta, GA. She was a 1959 graduate of North Fulton High School (Atlanta, GA) at which she sang in the chorus and was a member of the National Honor Society. Majoring in political science, she received her BA degree in 1963 from Emory University where she was a member of Alpha Delta Pi. Prior to moving to Orlando, FL in 1969, she was employed by C&S Bank in Atlanta.

She is survived by her loving husband, Shelburn M. Wilkes (married 12/22/1962 at Peachtree Christian Church in Atlanta); daughter, Meghan Jane Wilkes Gurley; son-in-law, Scott Richard Gurley; brother-in-law, Daniel M. Wilkes; cousins; many friends and special neighbors.

With a strong passion for opera, Rita was a major player in the support of the art in Central Florida for over 56 years. As a volunteer, she held many leadership positions in opera organizations of Orlando. She was named to the Emeritus Board of Opera Orlando and served on the UCF Opera Advisory Board. She was pleased to serve as a stage manager for opera productions and enjoyed attending opera at various venues across the United States and Europe.

Rita was active with Central Christian Church in Orlando for many years, serving as a teacher, choir member, board officer and elder.

She was partners with her husband in their association management business, organizing annual meetings, seminars and tradeshows across the country. Rita was also involved in her daughter's activities, acting as a scout leader, gymnastics team chaperone and party hostess. A lifelong animal lover, she cared deeply for her dogs (Ginghy, Robbie, Chocolate and Mencken) and cats (Bart, Belle, George, Pitti, Bert, Ernie and Sisi).

Her memorial service will be held on September 28, 2025 at 4 PM in the sanctuary of Central Christian Church: 250 SW Ivanhoe Blvd, Orlando, FL 32804.

A lovely person, inside and out, Rita was admired for her intellect, winning personality, beautiful penmanship and delicious homemade key lime pies.

Those who wish may make a donation in her memory to Central Christian Church Orlando or Opera Orlando.