Mildred (Thomas) Wilkerson

Mildred Thomas Wilkerson, the third of seven children, was born to Andrew and Margaret (Molly) Thomas on August 19, 1931 in Laurel Hill, Florida. She departed this life on Thursday, February 20, 2020.

Mildred gave her life to Christ at an early age and for the past sixty years has been a faithful member of the Red Bay Church of Christ. She served on many women's programs, Christian Retreats, taught Lady's Bible Classes and serviced on numerous committees.

Mildred graduated from Tivoli High School and received her Bachelor’s of Science Degree from Florida A & M University in Tallahassee, Florida. She taught elementary and middle school in the Walton School District for 36 years.

Mildred spent her career doing what she loved - working with children. It was rewarding for her to see them grow, form and develop. She wish the best education for all children. She was a true champion of education. Therefore, in her memory, donations will be given to the Walton Okaloosa FAMU Alumna scholarship fund to help a worthy student. When she was not teaching, she loved to cook and serve delicious meals for everyone to enjoy. She delighted in decorating and catering meals for special engagements. You were always welcome at her home for a delicious meal.

Mildred won numerous awards and recognitions throughout her career for outstanding work. Some of her notable contributions to the Walton County community include:

• The first black person to be elected (3 times) and serve on the Walton County School Board
• Honored by the DeFuniak Springs' Woman's Club as the sixth "Woman of Light" - this honor recognizes local women who, through their personal contributions, have made positive differences in the community. A recognition marble plaque is placed along the sidewalk on Circle Drive.
• Walton County Chamber of Commerce recognition for Outstanding Community Involvement.

After a long and beautiful life, Mildred finished her work here on earth. She will be missed. Her husband, Henry Thomas Wilkerson preceded her in death in 2001. Also, two sisters: ImaJean(Glen) Pennick and Minnie Pearl (Warren) Smith, brother Robert (Jean) Platt and her youngest child, Dr. Sherrell (Rose) Wilkerson preceded her in death. She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Dr. Jerrund (Connie) Wilkerson of Roswell, Georgia, daughter Shelia (Broderick) Grimes of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida and daughter-in-law Rose Wilkerson of Santa Rosa Beach, FL; grandchildren: Kacee (Brad) Huguely of Alpharetta, GA, Tiffany(Bryan) Rand of Atlanta, GA, Lauren(Cliff) Decoster of Fairburn, GA, Jerrund(Jay) Wilkerson, II of Atlanta, GA, Kristina(Krissy) Wilkerson of Santa Rosa Beach, FL, Lloyd (Reggie) Wilkerson of Los Angeles, CA, James(Trey) Edmondson, III of Atlanta, GA, and Victoria Grimes of Brooklyn, NY. Seven great-grandchildren: Riley, Brad Jr. (PJ) and Parker Huguely; Jamison and Rohan Rand, and Macen and Charlie Decoster; three brothers: Lloyd (Carla) Platt of Acworth, GA, James Wilson of Charlotte, NC and Marcos (Dickey) Wilson of Florala, AL; Godchildren: Homer(Gwen) Jackson, Jr., Marilyn Hogans, Lori Hughes and Bernard(Beverly) Smith. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and special friend Walter Hulett.

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