It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Uncle/Father/Brother, Jimmy Owens Wilkes, who left this world on Sunday, September 21st, 2025 surrounded by love.
Jimmy proudly served in the U.S. Army as a member of the 3rd Battalion Company stationed at Fort Jackson, South Carolina in 1973. His time there reflected his dedication, strength, and commitment to his country. Jimmy worked as a pipe layer for many years, building a strong career with his hands and hard work.
Jimmy was more than an uncle – he was a father, friend, a mentor, and a constant source of fun, laughter, and wisdom, with a touch of the Wilkes trademarked stubborn streak. He had a way of making everyone feel special in his own way. Family time won’t be the same without his warmth and humor to fill the room.
He was known for always calling each of his “only children” to check and make sure all things were well in their world. Even though he had no biological children of his own, he considered all the nieces and nephews as “His”. He taught us the importance of hard work, family, and loving your neighbor as yourself. Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the memories, laughter, and love he leaves behind. Jimmy will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the joy of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Dora Mae Wilkes; his parents, Theodore Donald and Hazel Driggers Wilkes; brothers: Randy Mickel Wilkes, William Henry Wilkes, Billy Cecil Wilkes
He is survived by his brother, Theodore (Teddy) Wilkes II; sisters-in-law, Debra Wilkes and Ann Gray; nieces and nephew – Becky Keefe, Leslie(Art) Turner, Billie Jo Adee, Pam(Jason) Hickman, and Travis(Jessie) Wilkes. Along with 18 great nieces/nephews; step-daughters Hope “His Hopie” Dixon(Tim), and Rene Obermiller(Mark); step-grand children Dylan, Nick, Christopher, Janelle, and Lindsey; and a special friend, Denise Lynch.
A funeral service will be held 11am on Thursday, September 25, 2025, in the chapel of Floyd Funeral Home with Rev. Myers Graham and Rev. Bobby Morris officiating. Burial will follow in the Olanta Baptist Church Cemetery with military honors.
A visitation will be held at the funeral home one hour prior to the service and at other times at 1013 Sullivan Street, Turbeville, SC.
Pallbearers will be Troy Cameron, Jason Hickman, Arthur Turner, Travis Wilkes, Josh Hickman, and Tony Floyd.
The family request that memorials be made to the McLeod Hospice program.
Floyd Funeral Home has been entrusted with funeral services.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
136 East Main Street P.O. Box 67, Olanta, SC 29114
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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