Donald Ray Wilkerson

Donald Ray Wilkerson, 85, of Fayetteville passed away Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2016, surrounded by family. He was born on Aug. 12, 1931 in Paragould, Ark. to Jeff and Letha Wilkerson. He grew up in St. Louis and Searcy, Ark. Following his graduation from Harding Academy he attended Harding University where he met his future wife, Barbara Flaherty. After they married he enlisted in the Air Force serving his country four years. After discharge, they moved to Fayetteville where he attended the University of Arkansas graduating with a BA in Marketing. Later he earned his Masters Degree from Harding University. Mr. Wilkerson worked for the Arkansas Vocational Rehabilitation Services in many different capacities for 50 years before retiring in 2011. He was a faithful member of the Church of Christ throughout his life. Having been a member of the Harding Acapella Chorus, Don enjoyed leading singing at church, serving as a deacon and spiritually influencing his children and grandchildren to become Christians and serve others. He loved sharing the gospel and his love of Jesus with others. Don was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Barbara Flaherty Wilkerson of 48 years; and his two brothers, Wayland and Ernie Wilkerson. He is survived by his three children, Cindy (Greg) Dunseath of Conway, Ark., Grant (Brenda) Wilkerson of Morton, Ill., and Ellen (Preston) LaFerney of Fayetteville, Ark.; eight grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. The family wants to express their gratitude for the exceptional care given by his doctors Malcolm Hayward, Avin Rekhi and Brian Rekus. Special thanks to Washington Regional Hospice, Morningside Assisted Living and Bright Star for their wonderful care. Visitation begins at 1 p.m. at Baldwin Church of Christ, funeral services will follow at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, 2016 with Bobby Dockery officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Memorial Gardens Cemetery under the direction of Beard's Chapel. The family will receive friends beginning at 1 p.m. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com. Donations can be made to: Gospel Tracts International, Morrilton Children's Home or World Bible School.