GREENBRIER — It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of James Edward Wilkins (Jim),

who passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on May 12, 2023 in Greenbrier, Ark. Jim was born on May 4, 1927 in Atlanta, Ga., to Claude and Myrtie Wilkins. He was the oldest of four siblings. Jim was preceded in death by his parents Claude and Myrtie Wilkins, his brother Bill Wilkins, and his sisters Charlotte and Catherine Wilkins.

Jim was a veteran and served his country as a military police officer in the United States Army from 1945-1947. He was a graduate of Little Rock Senior High School in 1948. Jim had a passion for music. He was an active member of the acapella choir and the men’s quartet in high school. After graduating Jim moved to California to be with his family. He spent the next 34 years teaching in California. In addition to his career, Jim sang with the Pathfinder Quartet for 20 years in California. His favorite hobby was playing golf with family and friends. Jim moved back to Arkansas with his wife Ava in 2013. He continued his love for singing, by sharing on Sunday mornings, as a faithful member of Springhill Baptist Church.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Ava Wilkins, his brother Bob Wilkins, his children, Kevin Wilkins (Janet), Heather Thrall (Phil), and Jannise Wilkins, and stepchildren Michael Morgan and Annette Thompson. He is also survived by five grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and seven step great-grandchildren.

Jim’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his kindness, his devotion to his family, his passion for education and music, but most importantly his dedication to the Lord. He will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 17, 2023, with funeral service following at Springhill Baptist Church. Bro. Ed Stephenson will be officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Springhill Cemetery.

Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/greenbrier