William Hugh Wilkerson Sr. was born to Reverend William H Wilkerson and Lucile Lowrance Wilkerson on September 19, 1939. He was the eldest of six children- Richard (Rebecca) Wilkerson, Cynthia (late Perry) Lilly, Barbara Davidson (Leroy), Martha (Ira) Mosley, and two deceased sisters- Mary Jane Wilkerson and Emma Lou Thomas.

He was raised in Forest City, NC where he met and married Johnnie Sue Dewberry Wilkerson. Married for 47 years, they became a blended family with seven total children. Born to him are Ann Hines, Cora Wilkerson, and William Wilkerson Jr. His bonus children are Paula Hailey, Michael (Shandreika) Mooney, Rufus Mooney, and Joni (Steven) Roberts.

Spending nearly 30 years of his working life with Aeroquip. Followed by 10 years at Spindale Mills. William retired in order to spend more time with his sweetie and grandchildren while returning part-time at Watkins car lot for three years. He was a faithful member of Greater Liberty Temple Church.

On October 4, 2022, William Hugh Wilkerson Sr. heard and answered the call to cease for a life of labor to receive his life of reward. He leaves a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews to cherish his memory. He was greatly loved and will be greatly missed.