- Date Of Birth: July 2, 1930
- Date Of Death: October 23, 2022
- State: Florida
Joseph E. Wilkins, 92, beloved husband of thirty seven years to Gerrie Wilkins, died suddenly on October 23, 2022 in Ocala, FL. He was born on July 2, 1930 in Bremen, KY to the late John H. and Lillian (Strader) Wilkins. Joe is survived by daughter Jane Stevens (Robert), Dunnellon and stepdaughter Rhonda Hart, Dunnellon; grandchildren Robert Stevens II, and Rhiannon Ripple (George) and great granddaughters Mia Mangold and Koryn Stevens.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Rita Wilkins and sisters Louise Payton and Nell Payne. He was also “Uncle Joe” to nephew Eddie Payton (Marcy) and several nieces.
Joe graduated from Bremen High School in 1948. He enlisted with the United States Marine Corps in 1951 and served on active duty for two years and in the reserves for six years. After working as a mechanic for several years Joe enrolled at the University of Kentucky where he graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1958. He worked for the Tennessee Valley Authority from 1958 until his retirement in 1985. Following his retirement Joe and his wife, Gerrie, moved to Florida and settled in Marco Island where he volunteered with the Civil Air Patrol for 16 years and worked his way up to Lt. Colonel. In 2013, Joe and Gerrie moved to Dunnellon, Florida. Joe enjoyed building and fixing just about anything he put his mind to and will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends.
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