Jesse Wilkinson

Jesse Lewis Wilkinson a longtime farmer and proud owner of a Century Farm of Belgrade, Missouri passed away on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 at Mercy Hospital at the age of 85 years, 7 months, and 25 days. Jesse was born on August 12, 1936 at Quaker, Missouri, a son to Burton Ray Wilkinson and Mildred Marie (Martin) Wilkinson.

Jesse was a graduate from Valley High School, Class of 1954. After graduation, Jesse joined the United States Navy and served from January 10, 1956 to December 7, 1959. After the service Jesse returned home. He was employed by General Motors where he retired from. Jesse was a diligent worker. Through the years He took great pride in his farmland. He enjoyed tending to his cattle and keeping his farm in immaculate condition. Jesse was a talented wood worker and enjoyed making different things for family and friends. He was a wise man and a great role model to his family. On November 3, 1995 Jesse was united in marriage to Margaret McKinney and they shared nearly 27 years of life and memories together. Jesse was a lifelong member of Bismarck VFW Post 6947 and Potosi Elks Lodge and a past member of Valley Lions Club. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those who are left behind to cherish his memory include his wife, Margaret Wilkinson; two daughters: Cyndi Wilkins (husband, Tim) and Gina Brendley (husband, Tim); step daughter, Karen Sadler (husband, Bob); seven grandchildren: Christina Wilkins, Jessica Wilkins, Justin Wilkins, Matthew Brendley, Kristina Brendley, Michelle Mork (husband, Shawn), Bobby Sadler (wife, Ciara); 11 great grandchildren; two sisters: Carol Turner and Joann Volz; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

In addition to his father and mother, Jesse was preceded in death by his step son, John Jellinek; sister, Susan Melick; two half brothers: Howard Wilkinson and Ray Wilkinson; and brother-in-law, Harold Turner.

Visitation will be held Friday, April 8, 2022 from 5 to 8 PM at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will resume on Saturday, April 9th, from 9 to 11 AM.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2022 at 11 AM held at the DeClue Funeral Home. Cindy Sadler will be officiating his service. Interment will follow at Belgrade United Methodist Church Cemetery. Jesse will receive full military honors presented by the US Navy and VFW Post 6947.

DeClue Funeral Home was honored to have ministered and served the family of Mr. Jesse Wilkinson.