Malcolm Grover Wilkinson

Malcolm G. “Joe” Wilkinson, age 88, a resident of Rankin County, passed away on May 14th, surrounded by loved ones.  

Joe was born at his grandparent’s home in Terry, MS. He graduated from Florence High School where he met the love of his life, Nellie Zane Wynne. Joe and Nellie would have celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary in just two months. Joe spent most of his life driving across the country, whether at work as a truck driver or traveling with his family. He loved spending time with his family, at home and on the road. Joe visited 49 states, Canada, and Mexico; on many of those trips he had family and friends in tow. He was always joking around and loved teasing everyone.

Joe was preceded in death by his father Malcolm Arnold Wilkinson, mother Vera Edna Campbell Richburg, sister Norma Dell Wilkinson, brothers Don Wilkinson, Norman Wilkinson, and Lloyd Richburg. He is survived by his wife Nellie Zane Wynne Wilkinson, daughter Pam Malley (Mark), son Eddie Wilkinson (Leann), daughter Lisa Smith (Neal). Grandchildren: Joseph Heflin, Eddie Lee Wilkinson (Ashley), Jacob Wilkinson (Patty), Sarah Malley Hayes (Zach), Sally Smith, and Molly Smith Shook (Mason). Great-grandchildren: Jessie Heflin, Josh Heflin (Jordan), Jeremy Heflin, and Ellyanna Wilkinson. Brothers and sisters: Bobby Wilkinson (Cindy), Rex Wilkinson, Deloris Foshee, Linda Barnett, and in-laws, Jack and Cathy Wynne, Randy and Sandra Wynne Ashley, Robert and Grace Wynne. And many nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Per his wishes, there will be no funeral. However, he always wanted to take those he knew and loved out to eat together. With that in mind, the family has planned a Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 18, at El Cabrito in Florence from 1 to 3. 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Batson Children’s Hospital.