Dean H. Wilkinson

Dean H. Wilkinson passed away on January 27, 2025, at home after a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was born in Missouri on February 28, 1944, to Harmon and Alois Wilkinson. His parents and older brother, Harold, preceded him in death.

Dean proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for four years, including a tour in Thailand during the Vietnam War. After his military service, Dean graduated from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, then worked for McDonnell Douglas for seven years and later at Carter Carburetor.

In 1980, Dean transferred from Carter Carburetor’s St. Louis location to Sanford, NC and remained a loyal employee after its acquisition by Magneti Marelli in the 1980s. He retired in 2004 as a process engineering supervisor.

Dean was committed to his community, volunteering for 10 years with the Boy Scouts of America. He served first as a Cub Scout leader with Pack 941 and later as a Boy Scout leader with Troop 942.

A man of strong faith, Dean had a close relationship with the Lord and was devoted to his family. He was immensely proud of his children and the lives they built, always supporting and encouraging them in their endeavors. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, where he served as a Deacon.

Dean is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Jana; daughter, Nicole Hicks, and her husband, James, of Richmond, VA; and son, Brad Wilkinson, and his wife, Heather, of Greenville, NC. He cherished his five grandchildren: Katherine Hicks, Caroline Hicks, Georgia Hicks, Harrison Hicks, and Tyler Dean Wilkinson. Dean is also survived by his sister, Jan Boggs and his dear sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marla and Bill Dixon. He leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews spread across the country.

Dean found joy in playing the guitar and spending time with his dear friend, Bill Faucette.

A funeral service will be held at Rogers-Pickard Funeral Home in Sanford, NC, on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 2:00 pm, with visitation beginning at 1:00 pm. Burial will follow at Buffalo Cemetery.