John Wilkins

(From Parker Mortuary)

Reverend John Frederick Wilkins Sr. went home to be with the Lord on Friday, February 20, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on May 21, 1933, in Racine, Missouri, to John and Gertrude (Kingrey) Wilkins and grew up alongside his brothers Jack, Jim, and baby George. He graduated from Alba High School in 1951 and lived ninety-two years marked by unwavering faith, devotion to his family, and faithful service to Jesus Christ.

On November 8, 1953, he married Billie Erlene Tandy, who stood beside him in life and ministry until her passing on October 4, 2012. Together they raised four children: Sherrie Moore and her husband Edward, John Frederick Wilkins Jr. and his wife Robin, Christi Hare and her husband Bill, and Charles Wilkins and his wife Terri. Reverend Wilkins pastored Oak Grove Baptist Church for many years, helping build the church with his own hands and shepherding generations of families. In addition to his ministry, he founded 4W Metal Building Supply, a family business still operated by his children. He was a Master Mason for more than fifty years and also served his community through years of involvement with the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home.

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He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Billie, his parents John and Gertrude Wilkins, his brothers Jim and George, and his grandson Adam Moore. In addition to his children, he is survived by his grandchildren Tiffanie, Anglenia, Sarah, Freddy, Amber, Bob, John III, Tasha, Elizabeth, Katelyn, and Cody, along with numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, and his brother Jack.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Parker Mortuary. A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, February 28, at 10:00 AM at Oak Grove Baptist Church, 6241 Spurgeon Road, Joplin, Missouri, with interment to follow at Burkhart Cemetery in Racine, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made through Parker Mortuary to the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home. The family would like to thank Dr. Russell Kennedy, Dr. Jose DeHoyos, the staff and caregivers at Mercy Hospital, and Good Shepherd Hospice for their compassionate care.

“His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” Matthew 25:21