John Ray Wilkerson, 80, of Avon, IN passed away on December 25, 2025 surrounded by his family at IU Health Hospital West in Avon, IN. He was born on September 20, 1945 in Wayne City, IL to his parents Kenneth and Lola Mae (Garner) Wilkerson. On May 29, 1964 he married his high school sweetheart, Edwina (Guilliams) Wilkerson, who survives. They resided in St. Jacob, IL and raised their two children there before moving back to Mt. Vernon, IL and finally moved out to Indianapolis, IN.

John was an avid fisherman throughout his years and loved hunting and tinkering with small engines.

John retired from CSX where he worked as an office clerk for the superintendent for 42 years.

He was active in the St. Jacob community as a volunteer fireman for 20 years. He served as a member of St. Jacob zoning board, town council (6 years) and a founding member of the township park. He was instrumental in the Volunteer fire department building construction committee.

In Mt. Vernon, IL John was a member of the Southwest Christian Church and delivered meals on wheels for 10 years.

John is survived by his wife Edwina Wilkerson of Avon, IN; 2 children: Sherri Wilkerson and Brent (Robyn) Wilkerson. 2 grandchildren: Cody (Nicole) Wilkerson and Ashley (Tiana) Wilkerson-Cruz; 5 great-grandchildren: Ryan, Zachary, Allison and Heather Wilkerson and Edward Allen Bird, 2 sisters: Judy Johnson and Janette Cullins and 1 brother: Larry Wilkerson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services for John Ray Wilkerson will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 2, 2026 at the Archie Sanders Memorial Chapel in Wayne City, IL with Pastor Randy Steele officiating. Funeral services are open to the public. A family viewing will be held at the chapel from 1:00 pm until the time of the service at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow the service at Thomason Cemetery in Wayne City.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in John’s memory may be made to the St. Jacob Fire Department. Donations will be accepted at the chapel or at the Young Funeral Home in Wayne City.

Online condolences, memories, and words of encouragement may be shared at www.youngfuneralhomellc.com.