Arlen "Jeff" Wilkinson

Arlen Jeffrey “Jeff” Wilkinson, 60, died Sunday, April 6, 2014, at his home in Byhalia, MS of complications from heart surgery. He leaves his wife of 38 Years, Cheryl Welting Wilkinson, a daughter Rachel Wilkinson Smith (Joseph Metts) of Horn Lake, MS and his granddaughter whom he cherished, Tyler Olivia Metts. Jeff was a kind hearted man who never met a stranger. He believed that you never knew when you were entertaining an Angel. Jeff was a father figure and mentor to many who knew him. He was a skilled craftsman and enjoyed teaching anyone who would listen. Jeff was a friend of Bill W. and loved to share the program of recovery to anyone in need. Jeff loved to write and recite poetry. Jeff also leaves five brothers; Terrance Wilkinson of Saulsberry, TN, Myron (Sandra) Wilkinson of Memphis, TN, Wayne (Sue) Wilkinson of Oxford, MS, Dan (Ruth) Wilkinson of Memphis, TN and Michael (Linda) Wilkinson of Vicksburg, MS, a sister-in-law, Patricia of Brandon, MS and a large host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Elder Allen F. Wilkinson, his mother Erna Mae Wilkinson, his brother Harold Wilkinson, and his grandson Blake Edward Metts. Jeff will certainly be missed by those who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 9, 2014 at Brantley Funeral Home in Olive Branch, MS. A service celebrating his life will begin at 2:00 p.m. that same day.