William L Wilkinson Jr.

William (aka Bill), was a devoted father and husband, whose unwavering love and dedication shaped the lives of those around him. As both a father and a role model, Bill embodied the essence of Christ through his self-sacrifice and commitment, instilling in his children the values of character, responsibility, honor, integrity, hard work and a devoted love for each other.

Bill, the eldest of two children, was born to Lilla Mae and William L. Wilkinson Sr. on March 12, 1944, in Montclair, New Jersey.

He grew up in Montclair and attended the local schools, eventually graduating from Montclair High School in June 1962. Afterward, he briefly attended New Mexico State University before enlisting in the United States Air Force as a Crypto Communication Officer. Bill proudly served his country, reaching the rank of Senior Airman, before being honorably discharged in November 1968. After his discharge from the Air Force, he took on the responsibility of running the family-owned business, Montclair Floor Service, which was well-known in the community for its expert floor refinishing services.

In October 1972, Bill married Sandra Wise of Montclair, NJ. Together, they had three wonderful children: Rachelle, William III, and Chad Sr. The family's roots began in East Orange, NJ, where Bill taught himself and his children how to swim. During this time, he became deeply involved in his children's education and extracurricular activities, immersing himself in their learning and growth. He broadened their horizons by allowing them to experience summers at the Pine Ridge Dude Ranch in Peekskill, NY, time spent in Sag Harbor, Long Island, visits to White Plains, NY, and unforgettable trips to Bermuda.

Bill gracefully embraced the dual role of mother and father, forming a tight, organic bond that reflected the very fabric of who he was. He raised his children to love and support one another, nurturing a strong family connection rooted in mutual care and understanding. From his marriage to Sandra, Bill's love reached beyond his own biological children to include three bonus children (Robin, Sherry and John Linder), whom he raised as his own.

Years later, he became deeply involved in ministry at Union Baptist Church in Bloomfield, NJ, where he was baptized and later ordained as a Deacon. As Bill began a new chapter in his life, he found love again while working at a customer's home, where he met Irma Andrews and later married her in April 2000, gaining four bonus children (Angela, Albert, Keith and Richard Andrews). After attending and serving at two different churches, Bill and Irma chose to make Community Baptist Church in Montclair, NJ, their spiritual home. During his 20+ years as a member of Community Baptist Church, Bill served in multiple roles, including Deacon, Treasurer, Sunday 

School Teacher, Choir member and occasionally delivering the word. Just as he was dedicated as a father, he also made it a priority to be a devoted husband.

Bill showed his support through active involvement in Irma’s daycare, and together they traveled to Trinidad, Niagara Falls, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Florida, and made annual trips to Keswick, NJ, and Ocean Grove, NJ, for the Christmas Kantata, where Irma enjoyed singing. However, his most cherished moments were the times he focused on prioritizing and caring for Irma’s health and well-being. In September 2024, the entire Wilkinson family took a cruise to Bermuda to celebrate Bill’s 80th birthday and other family milestones. While on the island, Bill's relatives on his mother’s side organized a surprise picnic in the park, where the Johansen family tree was displayed and discussed.

Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and dedication. His life was a testament to the power of God’s presence, the beauty of sacrifice, and the enduring impact of a father’s love. His spirit will continue to guide and inspire those who knew him, reminding us to give selflessly, love deeply, and always be present for those we cherish.

Preceding him in death were his father, mother, and brother Robert Wilkinson. Bill is survived by his wife Irma Andrews, daughter Rachelle Wilkinson-Thomas (husband Lance Thomas Sr.), son William L. Wilkinson III (wife Veronica Wilkinson), son Chad M. Wilkinson Sr. (wife Alexis Wilkinson), nine grandchildren, Jazmond Linder, Lance Thomas Jr., Niyada Thomas, Chad Wilkinson Jr., Cierra Wilkinson, Collin Wilkinson, William L. Wilkinson IV, Noah Wilkinson, Claire Wilkinson and great-grandson Chance Wilkinson.

He is also survived by his bonus family; daughter Angela Andrews, sons Albert Andrews, Keith Andrews, and Richard Andrews, six grandchildren; Michael-Christia, Adelina, Catelyn, Brandon, Aidan and Zoe

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William L Wilkinson Jr., please visit our floral store.