It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lorenzo B. Wilkerson Jr, a beloved husband, father, Pop Pop, G-Pop and friend who left us on June 6, 2026, at the age of 77. He was born on March 28, 1949, and was the son of the late Lorenzo B. Wilkerson, Sr. and Lexi Opal Wilkerson.
Many of you knew him as Sonny, Sonny Boy, Sun Dog, or simply Dog. No matter what you called him, one thing was for certain, Sonny never met a stranger. He had a gift that made everyone feel welcome. Whether you were a lifelong friend or just crossing paths he greeted everyone with a big smile and a "hey baby, hey honey, or hey buddy". He truly was a good hearted good old boy.
He was a man that truly appreciated the simple things in life. He found joy spending time with friends. In his younger years he enjoyed fishing, playing softball, golfing with his buddies at TK's Back 9, or playing cards at the shop. As he got older his true favorite place to be was at the ball field. He couldn't wait for a local softball game or tournament. You could always find him there routing "my girls" on. He will forever be remembered as a gambling man. Always up for a game of gin. He enjoyed the thrill of placing a bet on a game or horse, playing keno, playing the lottery and playing the slots never passing up the opportunity to test his luck, always believing the next big win was just around the corner.
More than a hobby or pastime, Sonny treasured his family. His greatest joy in his later years was spending time with his grandchildren. Whether attending their games and activities, spending hours at dance recitals, hanging out at family dinners, or playing a good old game of knock-knock, he was up for it. He was a proud and loving Pop Pop whose impact on their lives will never be forgotten.
He married Joy in 1988 and together they enjoyed watching their blended family of children Scott Wilkerson (Tori), Rhonda Witte (Sam), and Darren Hearn (Sheri) grow into successful adults. He was the proud Pop Pop to Noah, Lexi, Kirra, Jenna, Samantha, Vera, and Silas. He never got to meet the latest addition, but he will forever be remembered as G-Pop to his great granddaughter Brynlee Rae. He is also survived by his siblings, Patricia Smith (Wayne), Danny Wilkerson, Carolyn Littleton (Gerald Wayne); his Aunt Teen; and his several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. We will let everyone know those details once we have decided on those plans.
We all loved him so very much, and he will be forever missed. I was very lucky to be called his wife. Until we meet again, Love You Babe.
"Sun Dogs are Wild"
