Broward Donald Wilkes

He attended Cottondale High School where he graduated in 1957 and met the love of his life, Martha Sue Singleton. They were wed on April 9, 1961 together they built a life they loved and blessed all who knew them.

Donald entered the Navy shortly after high school and served four years, traveling overseas to Italy and many other places. He wrote letters back to Martha of his journey abroad. After his time in the military was complete, he obtained his survey license and eventually moved to Tallahassee, Florida. He excelled in his career as a land surveyor with Leon County and truly made a name for himself. His home life consisted of enjoying the Apalachicola National Forest where he was an avid hunter; fishing off the coast with his handmade cast nets; fishing on Lake Talquin; working out in his shop creating all sorts of wood projects; and living life with his wife, children and grandkids. His later years were spent caring for his wife Martha until her death August 18, 2021.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Leonard Wilkes; and son-in-law, Laird Williams. He is survived by three loving children: Karla Williams of Cottondale, Wade (Donna) Wilkes of Tallahassee, and Paul (Tracy) Wilkes of Crawfordville. Six grandchildren survive to cherish his memory: Laura (Kevin) Shaw, Kelly (Richard) Ratcliff, Jeremy (Sarah) Wilkes, Erica (Andrew) Hultzman, Kasey (David) Singh, and Christian (Marshall) Harvey. Twelve great-grandchildren will remember his legacy: Sarabeth, Patrick, John, and Ben Shaw, Barrett Ratcliff, Bryce Hultzman, Cheryl Ann, Zoey, Chloe, Gary, and Raelynn Wilkes, Riley Taylor, and Arlen Singh. He is also survived by his brother, Michael (Jeannie) Wilkes; sister, Linda (Ed) Wood; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A visitation for Donald will be held Friday, March 15, 2024 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home, 1737 Riggins Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32308. A graveside will occur Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 11am CST / 12pm EST at Piney Grove Cemetery, 2136 Piney Grove Road, Cottondale, Florida 32431.