Leroy Wilkes Jr., 87, of Jonesboro, formerly of Driftwood, passed from this life on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at the Emcompass Health and Rehabilitation Hospital in Jonesboro. He was born on June 19, 1939, in Lynn, to the late Leroy Wilkes Sr. and Opal (Justus) Wilkes. He retired from Riceland Foods after many years of employment. He proudly served in the United States Army Corps of Engineers. Leroy attended the Southwest Church of Christ in Jonesboro.
An avid outdoorsman, Leroy found great peace and joy in nature, especially when hunting and fishing. He was also a musician who enjoyed writing music and playing his piano. He was happiest on the Driftwood farm with his wife, Barbara, where they lovingly cultivated a flower garden and found great joy in feeding the hummingbirds.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife of 61 years, Barbara Ann (Durham) Wilkes.
He is survived by his sons, Scott (Andrea) Wilkes of Memphis, Tennessee, and Clay (Michelle) Wilkes of Brookland; grandchildren, Nick Wilkes, Michael Stone, Hannah (Aaron) McMillion, Flynn Wilkes, Ayden Wilkes, and Morgan Red; great-grandchildren, Samuel McMillion, Thea McMillion, and Ivy McMillion; and a host of other family members.
Graveside services will be Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 11 A.M., in the Dry Creek Cemetery in Lynn. David Burch will officiate. All arrangements are under the direction of Cox Funeral Home in Walnut Ridge.