George E. Wilkinson

George (Popeye) Wilkinson, passed peacefully at his home on October 17, 2021. George was born December 22, 1933, in Birmingham, AL, son of Dave Goff Wilkinson and Mattie Phillips Wilkinson. He was the middle son of five siblings.

George graduated from Jordan High school in 1952 and earned a full basketball scholarship to Troy State University. He graduated with a degree in Sports Management in 1956. He was awarded the Kilpatrick trophy for the 1955-1956 season as the most outstanding senor athlete at Troy State University. He taught school as an athletic director at Columbus Jr. high school. During his second year of teaching, he was drafted by the army and spent 20 months of his 2 years in Hanoi Germany. He was discharged in 1959 and went to work for First National Bank for the next 18 years. In 1978, George became a partner in Wade Textile Rental and Dry Cleaning until his retirement in 2004. George always enjoyed playing golf as a member of the Columbus Country Club and treasured his Humbletarian golf group. He was dedicated to physical fitness and maintaining a regular workout regime at the YMCA of Columbus.

He married Judith Kimbrough on January 31, 1963 and had sons Bruce and Troy Wilkinson followed by four grandchildren. George and Judy were blessed to be married for over 58 years.

George was active in the church during his life and was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church. He was a loving husband, father and grand father who loved unconditionally. Anyone who knew George was touched by his kindness, humor and mild temperament. He was truly a peace maker and source of positivity.

George is predeceased by his parents, 3 sisters and son Bruce. He is survived by his wife Judy, son Troy, 4 grandchildren and daughters-in-law Terri Wilkinson and Angela Wilkinson. A celebration of George’s life will be at Trinity Episcopal Church on Thursday, October 21 at 11am, followed by a reception in the church parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s hospital or Trinity Episcopal Church.