Gary Lynn Wilkins, 63, of Glendale, AZ passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2020. He succumbed to health issues he had been struggling with over the last few years. Gary was born on June 26, 1957 in Carlisle, Arkansas. He was one of 14 children born to Thomas and Doris Wilkins of Cabot, Arkansas. In 1975 Gary met Jennette Linn that he vowed to himself would one day be his wife. In December 1979 Gary and Jennette were married and in early 1981 they moved to Arizona where they created a wonderful life and family.
Gary enjoyed work and took great pride in his accomplishments. He started his 39 year work career at age 16 working half days after school as a plumber’s assistant. His career included warehouse management, supplies management, construction, plumbing and building maintenance. The last 26 years of his career was working in local government with the City of Phoenix.
Gary loved the sunshine and the great outdoors - everything from yard work to games to riding his Harley and off-road vehicles. He was fascinated by weather. He enjoyed countless games of basketball, horseshoes and ping pong along with cards, pool and darts. Gary loved his retreats to their cabin in the mountains of Arizona. But of above all, he loved his family, happiness, and friends. He would walk up to anyone and start a conversation and become friends.
Gary is survived by his wife Jennette Linn Wilkins; his son Tyler Wilkins; seven brothers and five sisters - Rick (Judy) Wilkins of Independence, KS, Brenda Bray of Conway, AR, Jennie Wilkins of Bartlett, TN, Debbie (Ray) Cossey of Ward, AR, Larry (Karen) Wilkins of Cabot, AR, Judy Wilkins of Sherwood, AR, Tom (Pam) Wilkins of Conway, AR, George (Sherry) Wilkins of Cabot, AR, Steve (Lori) Wilkins of Cabot, AR, Becky (Russell) Lacy of Lonoke, AR, David Wilkins of Cabot, AR, and Kevin (Kim) Wilkins of Cabot, AR; and several nephews, nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces.
Gary was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Felan Wilkins and his mother, Doris Marie Tarrants Wilkins both of Cabot, AR and brother Fred (Pam) Wilkins of Mesa, AZ.
Gary will live on forever in the hearts of his loved ones. A Celebration of Life will occur at a later date for friends and family.
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