David Neal Wilkes, 78, passed away on June 11, 2026. Born on November 27, 1947, in Columbus, Georgia, David later lived in Ellerslie, Georgia, and remained closely connected to the community and places that shaped his life.
David graduated from Columbus High School in 1965 and went on to earn an associate’s degree in electronics from Columbus Technical College, graduating in 1968. His steady dedication to learning and careful attention to detail became hallmarks of a life marked by quiet strength and consideration for others.
David served his country with honor as a veteran of the United States Navy, achieving the rank of E-5 (1968–1972), and later in the United States Coast Guard, achieving the rank of E-6 (1973–1977). He also built a respected career as an electronics technician for the State of Georgia and the Fort Benning Calibration Lab, work that reflected both his skill and his dependable, kind-hearted nature.
A Baptist by faith, David’s life was grounded in enduring values and a sincere regard for others. Vegetable gardening in his free time gave him the chance to reflect on what surrounded him. He enjoyed computers—especially those he built himself—and took a strong interest in world war history. He also loved music, particularly the sounds of the 1960s and 1970s, which brought him comfort and enjoyment across the years.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Ed Wilkes and Addie Wilkes. He is survived by his wife, Peggy A. Wilkes, to whom he was married for 59 years; his brother, Stephen (Sherry) Wilkes; his niece, Stephanie (Wes) Garvin; his grandniece, Madison; his cousins, Richard, Delores, and Irving Murphy, and Wayne Brunson; and special friends, Ed and Donna Thigpen. Throughout his life, David was deeply beloved, and he will be remembered with respect and gratitude for the steady goodness he brought to those around him.
Visitation for Family and Friends will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, GA 31907, on June 15, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.
A Graveside Service will follow at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Rd, Columbus, GA 31907, on June 15, 2026 at 11:00 am.
