Harold Theldon Wilkinson

Don was married to Thelma Louise Morgan in 1946 after serving in World War II. While Thelma waited for his return from military service, he sent her a small replica of his army hat which had a note attached saying “hold my hat till I get back”. They were happily married for 69 years.

Don had many interests during his life. He was a member of the Excelsior Masonic Lodge, a Shriner, and held the 32nd degree in the Scottish Rite. He enjoyed fishing, and kept his bird feeders full at all times. Don always said he was truly thankful when he was able to retire at 57, and after he had been retired longer than he worked, he would tell people this with glee. This gave him time with his family which he cherished. Don had an artistic side and enjoyed painting. He attended Central Piedmont College for many years which enabled him to become more proficient and skilled. He gave many of his paintings away to family and friends. He even painted the church where his funeral service will be conducted. The minister, Keith Whitener, was the happy recipient. He once painted the Shriner with the crippled child, and this hangs at the Shrine Club, where he and Thelma enjoyed many social activities.

Don was employed by Seaboard Airline Railroad in Norfolk, Virginia in 1942 where he served several railroad officials as secretary. He was on military leave from 1943 to 1946. In 1955, he was transferred to Winter Haven, Florida as Chief Clerk –City Ticket Agent. In 1960, he moved to Charlotte, NC to assume the positions of Commercial Agent, and later, District Sales Manager until he retired from CXS which was the former Seaboard Railroad.

Don was an exceptional person. He recognized the importance of God in his life, love of family, laughter, kindness, and service to others. People were drawn to him because of his humor, understanding nature, and mild manner. He and Thelma thought nothing of traveling long distances to assist family or friends in need even into their 80s.

Don is survived by his wife, Thelma. Children, Harold S. Wilkinson of Sarasota Florida, Gloria Johnson Hepler(Jimmy)of Huntersville, NC, His daughter, Margaret “Marlease” Knight (Steve) preceded him in death in 2013. Grandchildren, Amelia Bozart (Danny), Sara Carpenter, (Nate), and Sean Knight(Maryanne). Great Grandchildren, Tyler Knight, Madison Knight, and Philip Carpenter. He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Houck of Roanoke, Virginia.

The family would like to thank the staff of Sunrise Assisted Living for the excellent care they have provided for both Thelma and Don. Also, many thanks to the National Guard for the Veterans Funeral Honors and to the Masonic Lodge excelsior for the Graveside Ceremony.

A funeral service will be held at two o’clock in the afternoon on Friday, the 29th of January, 2016 at Idlewild Baptist Church, 12701 Idlewild Road, Matthews, NC 28105. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment to follow in Charlotte Memorial Gardens.

The family requests that memorial contributions be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate or to the Shriner's Hospitals for Children at www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org.

Condolences may be offered at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.