Hershel Brown Wilkes Jr.

HUNTINGDON, Tenn. — Hershel Brown Wilkes Jr., 78, of Huntingdon, Tennessee, died at his home on November 5, 2026.

 Funeral services are 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 10, 2026 in the Chapel of Dilday-Carter Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery at Parkers Crossroads. Brother Jacob Harris officiating.

The family will receive friends at Dilday-Carter Funeral Home on Monday November 9, 2026 from 1-8 p.m. and again on November 10, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at 11:30 a.m.

Hershel was born  February 14, 1948 in Huntingdon, Tennessee to the late Hershel Wilkes and Hester Hampton Wilkes.

Throughout his life, Hershel dedicated himself to serving, teaching, leading, and encouraging others. He spent more than 30 years as an educator, leaving an impact on generations of students. His influence extended well beyond the classroom.

For more than 50 years, Hershel officiated nearly every sport imaginable. His many years as an official reflected not only his love of athletics, but also his strong sense of fairness, leadership, and commitment to his community.

Hershel was a proud Army veteran who served two years active duty. He retired as a lieutenant colonel, earning the Bronze Star for Distinguished Service .  He loved his country deeply and considered it an honor to have served. That devotion continued throughout his life through his respect for and support of fellow veterans.

He was also an Exalted member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, an organization that was an important part of his life for 59 years. During his years of membership, Hershel served in numerous leadership positions and remained committed to the Elks’ traditions of service, fellowship, and support of veterans and the community.

Above all, Hershel was a devoted family man. He took enormous pride in his children and grandchildren, and the accomplishments and happiness of his family. Hershel was a natural-born leader with a remarkable ability to offer profound wisdom at exactly the moment it was needed. Whether in a classroom, on an athletic field, in service to his community, or gathered with family, Hershel had a way of providing guidance that stayed with people long after the conversation ended.

Hershel was preceded in death by his parents, Hershel Wilkes and Hester Hampton Wilkes; his wife, Ouida Marshall Wilkes; his sister, Jane Cole; two brothers, Larry Wilkes and Darrell Wilkes.

He is survived by his children, Samantha Chaney (Tim) and Hershel Wilkes, III “Trey,” both of Huntingdon, Tennessee; Dana Crocker of McKenzie, Tennessee; Gina Stevens of Knoxville, Tennessee; and his nephew, Tony (Julie) Wilkes.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brooxie Chaney, Tayler Chaney, Khloe Wilkes, Aubree Wilkes, Nicholas McCartney, Matthew Stevens, and Joseph Stevens, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Hershel leaves behind a legacy that can be measured in many ways: in the students he taught, the athletes and officials he encountered, the veterans he honored, the organizations he served, and the family he loved so deeply. But perhaps his greatest legacy is found in the lessons, stories, guidance, and wisdom he leaves with the people who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The State Veterans Cemetery at Parkers Crossroads.

Dilday-Carter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 731-986-8281