Leon Anderson Wilkinson Sr.

1932 - 2025

Leon Anderson Wilkinson, Sr.

February 13, 1932 - March 22, 2025

Leon Anderson Wilkinson, Sr., age 93, of Petersburg, Virginia, died on March 22, 2025, at VCU Medical Center. He was born on February 13, 1932, in Richmond, Virginia to the late Leonidas Anderson Wilkinson and Sallie Crumpler Wilkinson. He was preceded in death by his wife, of 60 years, Nancy Moore Wilkinson. He was a graduate of Petersburg High School where he excelled in sports. He attended the University of Richmond and played the position of right guard on the football team. He subsequently worked for 30 years, in the research department, at the American Tobacco Company. After his retirement in 1993, he enjoyed spending time at his house in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, fishing, watching old western movies and sporting events, and reading history books.

He is survived by his four children, to include: his son, Leon A. Wilkinson, Jr. (Karla) of Chesterfield; his daughter, Kelley L. Wilkinson of Richmond; his daughter, Nancy Kyle Wilkinson of Petersburg; his son, Linwood M. Wilkinson (Ursula) of Chester. He is also survived by his beloved dogs who provided constant companionship during his two-and-a-half year battle with bladder cancer. The family extends their deep gratitude to his former cardiologist, Dr. Jiho Han, for 26 years of exemplary care, and to the nursing/support staff at the Gumenick Suites, of VCU Medical Center, for the outstanding care provided the last two years.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 2 p.m., at Southlawn Memorial Park in Prince George County. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.