Lillian Mae Wilkerson

Lillian Mae Wilkerson Lillian Mae Wilkerson, a lifelong resident of Austin, passed away peacefully in the early evening hours of Wednesday, October 29, 2003. She was a warm, dedicated wife and homemaker, a loving mother, and an incredible grandmother and great-grandmother. She was delighted when her great-grandchildren gave her the title, “Grand Mimi.” Lillian was one of the few remaining Austinites who could recall the City in its yesteryear, including vivid personal memories of riding a horse on Lavaca Street near the State Capitol Building. She was born at Seton Hospital and graduated from Austin High School. At age 22, she married C. R. (Curly) Wilkerson, with whom she shared a wonderful life until his death in 1984. After their wedding, the young couple built a house in Hyde Park, and five years later, welcomed their first daughter, Peggy Elaine. In 1939, they built another home on Enfield Road, which then was on the outskirts of town. A second daughter, Karen, was born to them soon afterward. They raised their family in the Enfield home and lived there for the remainder of their lives. Lillian had scores of friends and many diverse interests. She loved volleyball and played on a team at the old Austin Athletic Club on Northland Drive when her girls were young. Following each monthly game, she and her friends would gather for lunch and laughter. Lillian was a fabulous cook, loved volunteer work and was an avid bridge player. She was a member of three bridge clubs, playing weekly with a large group of friends and winning most of the time! She loved to dress smartly and never left home unless she was perfectly attired, even in her latter years. Early in their marriage, Lillian and Curly traveled extensively. In addition to visiting every state in the United States, they took several Caribbean cruises to exotic destinations, such as Morocco and Cuba, and one particularly exciting trip to Europe on the Queen Mary. Lillian was a member and dedicated supporter of the First Baptist Church, where she was involved in many activities. Two years ago, she was honored by the church in a special tribute service. The Reverend Doug Keenan, Associate Pastor, will officiate in a private burial ceremony for the family at Austin Memorial Park. Lillian was preceded in death by her husband, C. R. (Curly) Wilkerson, and her parents, Mary Ambler Johnson and Clinton Harrison Hurley, and son-in-law, Billy Neal Crow (husband of Peggy Elaine). Her survivors include her daughters, Peggy Elaine Wilkerson Crow and Karen Wilkerson Shriver (and husband, Jack E. Shriver); four grandchildren—Sherry Crow Kanak (and husband, Randolph C. Kanak), Debby Crow Jenson (and husband, Richard A. Jenson), Jacqueline (Jackie) Shriver Conners (and husband, Jeffery L. Conners), and Sean S. Shriver; seven great-grandchildren—Blake Elliott Kanak, Paige Elaine Kanak, Jarod Christopher Conners, Jason Cole Conners, Shane Eric Jenson, Jarod Mark Jenson (and wife, Myka) and Travis Wayne Jenson (and wife, Melissa). The family wishes to thank the Administrator and staff of Barton Hills Assisted Living Center for their extremely caring ways and fondness for their “oldest resident.” They also extend special appreciation to the caregivers at Odyssey Hospice for their kindness and support. Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 3125 N. Lamar, Austin, TX 78705 – (512) 452-8811 You may view memorials online at www.wcfish.com