On January 30 th , at 4:52pm, William R. Wilkinson Jr. (fondly known by his family and friends as "Buddy") went to be with the Lord at the age of 65, surrounded by loved ones. Born to William Sr. ("Rollo") and Dorris Wilkinson on January 31, 1957, Buddy grew up in Memphis, TN. After attending Baptist Christian College in Shreveport, LA, he went on to play minor league baseball for the Montreal Expos. Afterward, Buddy built a career as a successful salesman and entrepreneur.

Buddy is survived by his children, Shelby (Abel) Albonetti of Austin, TX, Trey Wilkinson of Nashville, TN, and Peyton Wilkinson of San Antonio, TX, his grandchildren, Brady and Kinley Albonetti, his parents, Rollo and Dorris Wilkinson, and his brother, Clay (Dawn) Wilkinson.

Buddy was best known for his compassionate heart, his tenacious spirit, his deep love for his children, grandchildren, and parents, his appreciation for music, and his fiery passion for sports, especially the Tennessee Vols. He was profoundly loved by his family and many friends. Buddy will be greatly missed.

Visitation for friends and family will take place on Thursday, February 2 nd , from 12-1pm at First Baptist Church of Eudora. A funeral service in Buddy's honor will take place at the same location at 1pm. The grave side service will be held at Forest Hills Cemetery South immediately following.