Franklin B. Wilkerson

Sylacauga, Alabama -  Franklin B. Wilkerson, affectionately known as “Wilk,” was born on October 18, 1965, in Sylacauga, Alabama, to the late A.B. Wilkerson and the late Frankie Mae Malone-Wilkerson. He departed this walk of life on November 29, 2025.

Wilk received his education in the Sylacauga City School System and graduated from Sylacauga High School with the Class of 1984. During his childhood, he was a member of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where his spiritual foundation was formed.

After high school, Wilk proudly served in the United States Army for four years. Upon completing his military service, he began a long and dedicated career with ECC, which later became Imerys. He was well-known and respected by his coworkers and teammates, especially during his years playing softball for Imerys.

Wilk enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved fishing, playing golf, watching westerns, and cheering on the Alabama Crimson Tide. His joyful spirit, warm personality, and love for his family and friends will always be remembered.

He was preceded in death by his parents, A.B. Wilkerson and Frankie Mae (Malone) Wilkerson, along with several siblings who transitioned before him.

Wilk leaves to cherish his memories his loving spouse of 35 years, Mealie Wilkerson of Sylacauga, AL; three sons, Lucius (Che Tara) Culpepper of Sylacauga, AL, Franklin (Alethia) Wilkerson of California, and Daniel Chambliss of Sylacauga, AL; three daughters, Lasheka Culpepper and Latoya Culpepper, both of Sylacauga, AL, and Twanda Christian of Greensboro, AL; one brother, Gary L. (Fatensa) Malone of Sylacauga, AL; five sisters, Minister Verlinda (Dr. Henry) McGhee of Talladega, AL, Lacornia Wilkerson Evans of Talladega, AL, Louise Hale of Sylacauga, AL, Annie (Johnnie) Rogers of Sylacauga, AL, and Minnie (Larry) Wilson of Sylacauga, AL.

He also leaves behind fourteen beloved grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who will forever hold his memory dear.

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