Thomas Wilkins

Thomas Wilkins often loving known as “June” or “Tommy” was born in Nash County, North Carolina on August 5, 1929 where he was raised and lovingly nurtured by his late parents Claude and Cora Wilkins. June was the third of six children born unto this union: James Wilkins and Bessie McMillian (preceding him in death were Edward in 1997, Herbert in 1998, and Willard in 2000). In the early 1950’s, June worked as a truck driver until he found his passion as a roofer. He started working for Cumberland Roofing Incorporated and remained there for over 35 years until he retired. In January of 1959, Thomas married the love of his life, Ida Mae Caldwell who (preceded him in death in 1994). While true southerners at heart, Thomas and Ida Mae relocated to Jamaica, NY where their kitchen (on 157th Street) was never closed and where they began to raise their family of five: Wendy, Tess and Anthony Wilkins (preceding him in death were Connie in 1967 and Thomas, Jr. in 2000). In addition to being a proud father and devoted husband, Tommy worked a very demanding full time job as a roofer by day and had his own roofing business that he owned and operated with his wife Ida Mae.That strong work ethic required him to work late into most evenings and constantly on weekends, limiting his participation to various functions. He was also passionate about purchasing and fixing up homes for people that too were trying to pave a way for themselves and their families. He did this with the help of family, friends and former co-workers. Tommy was an excellent gardener and so enjoyed tending to his very own personal garden. Thomas was a rich man….Perhaps not in the monetary sense; but in family, friends and love.He could accomplish anything he set his mind to. Holding only a 5th grade level education Tommy truly admired and lived vicariously through anyone that furthered his or her education. He would always say, “If I had an education I would be a millionaire!” Another famous quote of Tommy’s was….“You better save some money for a rainy day…. Because, I got news for you…one day its gonna rain!” In 2008, Tommy returned back to North Carolina, the place he considered home. In Rocky Mount,he was able to spend countless time with his family and friends, watching westerns, fishing and enjoying the beauties of nature in The Country. Surviving to cherish his wonderful memories are his: Children: Brenda Best, Wendy, Tess and Anthony Wilkins. Granddaughters: Crystal Chapman, Nikki Best, Reggi Simmons and Raven Wilkins. Great-Grandchildren:Jordan Best, Cameron Wingate, Patrick Hinnant and Jasmine Gwin. Siblings: James Wilkins, Bessie Mc-Millian, Claude Wilkins, Harold Wilkins and Doris Hutcherson. Sister-In-Law:Mary Emma Wilkins Brother-In-Law:Douglas Hutcherson GrandSon-In-Law: Conell Chapman A host of Nieces (especially his favorite one), Nephews (especially his favorite one),Cousins (especially his favorite one) and A Great Deal of Other Family Members and Friends. An Extra Angel is now Shining Down on All of Us Especially: Jennifer, Reggi, Sharon and Abraham! Lovingly Submitted, The Wilkins Family

Thomas Wilkins

August 5, 1929 - January 3, 2018