Joseph (Joe) Manley Wilkinson, age 89, passed away peacefully at his Austin home on September 11, 2017, surrounded by his family. He is preceded in death by his mother, Willie Mae Dowdy, his father J. M. Wilkinson, Sr., and his sister, Lucky Becker. Joe is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Dottie. He is also survived by his son, Joseph S. Wilkinson and wife, Gretta, and two grandchildren, Helen and Thomas. Helen took very loving care of her grandfather as his nurse in his final hours. Joe is also survived by his brother, Ronnie Dowdy, and wife, Beverly.
Joe was born in New Orleans in 1928, and was raised in Baton Rouge.
At an early age, Joe proudly joined the U.S. Navy serving valiantly through many battles in the South Pacific on the escort carrier, U.S.S. Petrof Bay during WWII. He was the recipient of the Silver Star Medal on March 11, 1945. Joe was also very proud to be a part of "The Greatest Generation."
After serving in the Navy for six and a half years, his love of the sea continued throughout his life with his passion for sailing. He began his civilian career with Braniff Airlines where he was employed 30 years, retiring in 1982. He later worked in real estate and property management.
His vibrant sense of humor and warm personality endeared him to many. But his most precious moments were spent sharing time with his beloved wife, Dottie, and his cat, Penny.
The family would like to thank all those who have shown such kindness and generosity during Joe's brief illness. Joe has requested his ashes be buried at sea in the Pacific Ocean. A memorial service may be held at a later date. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 E. Main St., Fredericksburg, TX 78624
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