James Vernon Wilkinson

James Vernon Wilkinson, 84, passed away Friday, June 14, 2019 in Longview. Graveside services will be held 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at Lake Memorial Gardens in Longview with Chaplain Mike Thomas officiating.

James Vernon Wilkinson was born on October 31, 1934 in Longview, Texas to Jesse Jules Wilkinson and Katie Mae Thompson Wilkinson. He joined the US Air Force on May 4, 1954 and retired after 23 years of honorable service on June 1, 1977 at Craig Air Force Base in Selma, Alabama. He enjoyed fishing and boating, especially at Lake Gladewater and Lake O' the Pines. He never missed his weekly golf games and was always working outdoors in the yard and in his wood shop. James loved all types of food and loved spending time with his family and friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Millard, Edward, Jack, Joe, Bob and Tommy; and sisters, Jessie May and Ursula Jean.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jean Wilkinson of Longview; sons, Wally Wilkinson (Julie) of Big Sandy and Scott Wilkinson (Cherie) of Wylie; grandchildren, Kimberly Hobbs (Chet) of Gladewater, Erica Wilkinson of Wylie and Ian Wilkinson of Wylie; sister, Ann Duke (Hervert) of Longview; and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family members and friends.