Larry Richard Wilkinson, 72, of Crossville, Tenn., passed away Thursday, May 4, 2017, in his home following a recent illness. He was born in Newark, Ohio, on Jan. 4, 1945, to the late Richard and Isabelle Wilkinson. He was member of the graduating Class of 1964 from Utica, Ohio, and in 1972 moved to Yulee.
Larry was a man of few words but always made a lasting impression on the people who knew him. In his younger years, he participated in many hobbies, including, archery competitions, boating, fishing, golfing and scuba diving; he also created many wonderful paintings that are treasured by his family. He was best-known for his “mechanically inclined” abilities and his willingness to share his skills with anyone in need. He was especially proud of his restoration of his 1973 Corvette Stingray.
His mechanical skills along with a hard-work ethic helped him to rise through various positions during his 35-year career with Smurfit-Stone Container, a paper mill in Fernandina Beach. After retiring in 2007, he relocated to Crossville, where he enjoyed gardening and preparing wonderful family meals; however, prior to his illness, he would be found “tinkering” out in his workshop.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 30 years, Debbie Wilkinson; sons, Kendell (Lori) Wilkinson, Keven (Patches) Wilkinson and Troy Wells; siblings: sisters, Iciphene Hardy, Jerry Brown and Dora Harris, and one brother, Don (Marvel) Wilkinson; grandchildren, Blake, Courtney, Katie and Weston Wilkinson; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Honoring his request, he was cremated, and his immediate family will hold private services at a later date.