Dr. Charles Henry Wilkens

Dr. Charles Henry Wilkens, age 82, of Elk Valley (Pioneer), TN passed away Sunday, December 26, 2021. He was born January 11, 1939 in Marydel, Delaware.
Dr. Wilkens came to Jellico in 1974 to help the city reopen their hospital. “Doc” was a general surgeon, but also delivered babies and practiced primary care. He loved farming and joked that medicine was just his side job. The word that would best describe Doc’s approach to medicine, family, and community would be Faith.
His faith was extremely important to him. Whether he was praying with patients before surgery, handing out Christian literature at the fair, or serving as head elder at his church, his faith was his guide.
We will all remember Doc for his big brown eyes and warm country smile that always made you feel cared for and loved.
Dr. Wilkens is preceded in death by, his father, Henry Fredericks Wilkens; mother, Gilda Vere Isaacs Wilkens; brother, John Wilkens and wife Edith, and brother-in-law, Charles John Pires, Jr.
He is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Ann Boyts Wilkens; children, Dr. Gregory Wilkens and wife Wendy Jane Lee, Dr. Todd Wilkens and wife Marsharee, Dr. Darryl Wilkens and wife Laura, Kerri Wilkens Boone and husband Stephen; grandchildren, Kelsey Wilkens, Ashley Wilkens Hill, Kalli Wilkens, Megan Wilkens. Trace Wilkens, Riley Boone, Eric Wilkens, John Todd Boone, Kori Wilkens and Trenton Wilkens; sister, Louise Marie Wilkens Pires; and a host of nieces, nephews, friends and family to mourn his passing.
The family will receive friends (drive by) on Friday, January 7, from 5 until 7 p.m. at the Indian Mountain State Park located at 143 Indian Mt. State Park Circle in Jellico, TN.
Memorial service will be Saturday, January 8, at 3 pm at the Jellico Church of God Mountain Assembly located at 256 N. Florence Ave. in Jellico, TN. with Pastor Kevin Pires and Pastor John Bradshaw officiating.
In lieu of flowers gifts can be given to the Jellico Christian Academy, 170 Adventist Lane Jellico, TN 37762.
Harp Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.