Charles I. Wilkerson, surrounded by his family's love, quietly left this Earth for his eternal home on March 12, 2018. Charles was born on June 20, 1938 in Jennings County, Indiana to Opal Davis and Earl Wilkerson.

Charles grew up in Old Paris, IN on his grandparent's farm - he knew every inch of that land. He graduated from Paris Crossing High School in 1956. On September 10, 1958, he married the love of his life, Lou Alice (Begley) Wilkerson. Together, they had Cindy Lou Wilkerson. Charles worked for Cummins Engine Company for 33 years in Columbus, IN. He could always be found hunting, trapping, fishing, or roaming about the yard. It's been said that he was a legendary coon hunter across 3 counties in Indiana. He was a real man - one of those John Wayne types that are few and far between. He had many names: Charles, Charlie, Snook, Daddy, Pappy. Although he meant something different to each of us, he left a lasting impression on the hearts of everyone who knew him.

He was man of few words, but Charles demonstrated his love for others through his actions. Whether it be making weekly phone calls or visits to check on his friends, frying up fish for all to enjoy, sharing his marksmanship expertise, or giving a simple handshake and a smile, Charles was a constant picture of kindness. He and his wife, Lou Alice, have resided in Raymond, MS since 2011 and are members of the Hinds Independent Methodist Church. They were constant companions. The two of them loved bird watching from the porch or simply sitting side by side reminiscing about old times and counting their many blessings. He never failed to tell Lou Alice that he loved her every single day.

He was preceded in death by his Grandparents, Speed and Rose Davis, and his parents, Opal Davis and Earl Wilkerson.

He is Survived by his wife of 59 years, Lou Alice, his daughter, Cindy Richey (Marty) of Raymond, MS, his foster son, Mike Barrett (Sandy) of Salem, IN, and his two brothers, Dudley Jones (Debby) of North Port, FL and Daniel Jones (Chris) of Havelock, New Zealand. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Caroline and Brittany Richey, and Christian and Kelsey Barrett, two great-grandchildren, Cindy and Lola Rains, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 17, 2018 at Hinds Independent Methodist Church in Raymond, MS. Visitation 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM, funeral service 11:30 AM, interment immediately following. Flowers may be sent directly to the Church. Donations may also be made in his name to the Hinds Independent Methodist Youth Group, P.O. Box 1226, 14938 Old Port Gibson Rd, Raymond, MS 39154.