Katherine Chandler Wilkinson

Katherine Chandler Wilkinson, age 87, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 16, 2026, at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont, Texas. Born on May 25, 1938, in Winn Parish, Louisiana, Katherine was raised in the Cypress Creek Community. She was a 1956 graduate of Dodson High School and later earned her degree from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Katherine devoted a portion of her life to education, teaching special education in Vinton, Louisiana, where she made a meaningful impact on the lives of her students.

In later years, she made her home in Orange, Texas, where she became an active and faithful member of Little Cypress Baptist Church. There, she taught Sunday School for many years and formed deep, lasting bonds with the ladies of her class, whom she loved dearly.

Katherine was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur L. Chandler and Alma K. Roberson Chandler; her husbands, Donald Martin and John Wilkinson; one brother; and four sisters. Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Bruce Martin, Stephen Martin and wife Theresa, and Lara Wilkinson-Stewart and husband Arthur. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Spencer Martin and wife Chaelynn, and Melani Davidson and husband Ryan. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Emily, Ashlyn, Isabelle, Chandler, and Stellin. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Cypress Creek Cemetery, with Reverend Jessie Henderson officiating. Services are under the direction of Southern Funeral Home of Winnfield.

Katherine will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her dedication to her faith, and the love she shared so freely with her family, her church, and all who knew her.