John William "Johnny" Wilkinson

1947 - 2021

John "Johnny" William Wilkinson

John "Johnny" William Wilkinson was born on April 24, 1947, to Mary Catherine and Ellis William Wilkinson of Bristol, Va. He went to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 22, 2021.

While attending Virginia High School in Bristol, Johnny became an accomplished musician in the school band. He was a drummer and was selected to All-State Band four times. In addition to being musical, Johnny developed a life-long passion for mathematics and problem-solving.

Johnny was an Honorably Discharged veteran of the United States Army. After Basic Training he was stationed in Korea. Following his time in the military service, Johnny returned to Bristol where he met and soon married Sandy Salyers. They were wed on August 22, 1968. Johnny's passing occurred on their 53rd wedding anniversary.

A longtime member of Hinton Avenue United Methodist Church (since moving to Charlottesville with his bride Sandy in 1969) Johnny thoroughly enjoyed attending the services, singing in the choir and with the Hintonaires, as well as volunteering in the soup kitchen and assisting with other ministries of the church.

Throughout his lifetime Johnny was a faithful fan of UVA sports, especially football and basketball. He also was a big fan of the Washington Redskins and the Atlanta Braves.

Johnny retired from a successful career at Sears, Roebuck and Company in Charlottesville after working there 35 years. He then went to work for himself, flipping houses and performing a wide variety of other handyman services.

Johnny enjoyed spending his leisure time on the water at Smith Mountain Lake. He loved to go boating and jet skiing with friends and family.

Johnny is survived by his wife, Sandra Lee Salyers Wilkinson; his daughter, Melissa Wilkinson Greenspon and her husband, Jonathan Greenspon; two grandchildren, Shannon Greenspon and Jack Greenspon; one brother, Terry Wilkinson and his wife, Marivic; and another brother, Danny Wilkinson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Catherine, and Ellis William. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Sarah Ann Wilkinson Denton.

John Wilkinson was a faithful servant to God all the days of his life. We invite you to join us Sunday, September 12, 2021, for a church service and a celebration of John's life, and his passage into Heaven, for life everlasting. The service will be held at 11 a.m. at Hinton Avenue United Methodist Church, 750 Hinton Ave., Charlottesville, Va.

In keeping with Johnny's wishes, the family requests that In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions be made in his memory to either Hinton Avenue United Methodist Church, or to Meals on Wheels.