Earl Wilkinson Jr.

Of Jackson, passed away peacefully, January 25, 2011, under the tender loving care of Allegiance Hospice Home. He was 88 years old. Jay was preceded in death by his parents Earl and Loda Wilkinson; his son, Larry E. Wilkinson; and sister, Florence Seffernick. Jay is survived by his wife of 63 years, Frances A., his daughters, Donna Davisson and Cassie (Wayne) Mueller; his grandchildren Crystal (Joshua) Aprill, Phillip (Lisa) Davisson, Tamra (Michael) Davisson-Allen, Vicky (Bill) Lorencen, Wesley (Randa) Mueller, Eric Wilkinson, Larry Wilkinson and Susan (Mark) Zakala; great grandchildren, Joshua Aprill, Skylar Aprill, Michael (Jamie) Davis, Nour Elbei, Ann-Marie Lorencen, Ryan Lorencen, Dietrich Mueller and Amber Zakala; and sister, Dorothy Berryman, as well as many nieces and nephews. Jay served in the US Army for three years during World War II. After returning home, Jay attended Jackson Junior College on the GI bill, graduating with an Associate of Science degree. He later worked as a supervisor for the Bendix Corporation. He and his wife attended area churches for many years where he sang in a gospel quartet. Upon retiring, Fran and Jay lived in Florida for 14 years, returning to Jackson in 1997. Jay enjoyed his family, his beloved cat, Noel, golfing, reading, painting, playing the organ, watching movies and playing Skipbo with his wife. Visitation will take place at the funeral home, Thursday, January 27 from 10-11 a.m. immediately followed by a funeral service conducted by Pastor Ned McGrady. At the conclusion of the service, those who wish may then accompany the family to Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Mi. Prior to Jay’s burial, there will be a special ceremony in honor of his military service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Allegiance Hospice Home would be greatly appreciated.