Lindora "Tink" Wilkins

Life Story

Lindora Wilkins was born on March 19,1935 to the late Ernest and Juddie Dickens in Washington, North Carolina.  Lindora also celebrated her birthday on March 18th each year because it was the date that was written in the family Bible.  The family Bible and the hospital records differed in their noted date.  With the family Bible chronicling her birthday as March 18thand the hospital birth certificate stating March 19th , the familyacknowledges both days! They happily hosted a two-daybirthday celebration each year in her honor.  Lindora was raised in the church and baptized at an early age. She attended Pitt County High School where she was known as a proper, poised and elegant young lady who was acknowledged for her beauty, etiquette and ladylike manners.  She was an intelligent academic standout and scholar who also had the honor of being the prom queen.  On June 21, 1958 Lindora was united in holy matrimonyto the late Frank L. Wilkins Sr. and from their union they were blessed with eight children. 

Lindora was a devoted homemaker making the best of her home by bringing patience and loving care to her work; and understanding to her family. Anyone moving into a home could count on a set of beautiful curtains from her as a gift. Lindora valued education and she imparted the love of learning in all the generations to follow starting with her own children.  Lindora was a neighborhood Mom and she would feed, counsel, support and be a listening ear for both children and young adults.  She had a love for senior citizens and she could be found caring for them and their needs. She also recruited her children to assist if necessary.  

Lindora loved music. Her favorite song was “Your Grace and Mercy” sang by the Mississippi Mass Choir and “Harry Hippie” by Bobby Womack. Lindora enjoyed a good home cooked meal. Coming from the south where everything was farm grown and fresh, she enjoyed cooking for her family but Sunday dinner was her absolute favorite.  She was family oriented and truly enjoyed being surrounded by her family at all times. Being in the midst of family gave her such great joy and pure happiness! She especially loved participating in family reunions, activities, events and celebrations to include family fun game nights.

Growing up in the country Lindora would talk about preparing the table for the Pastor to come and eat dinner in their home.  She recounted how her Father always talked about the Bible and how important the scripture was.  It was instilled in her that it was important to trust God and to always do what was right regardless of who was watching. Lindora was an alto singer who loved to clap her hands and praise God.  One of her famous sayings was “God will take care of you”.  Everyone connected to her could count on hearing those words from her countless times throughout their lifetime as it applied to all situations. Lindora was a beautiful soul, inside and out with a gentle spirit. She always had a kind word, a smile and she never hesitated to impart wisdom to others. 

Lindora was a dedicated Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. She was a loving Sister, caring Aunt, Cousin and a friend to everyone in her midst.  She was known for her witty sense of humor, compassion and for her love of God and all people. As we continue to cherish her legacy of love in our lives and the amazing beautiful memories, we the family stand in the grace of God. 

Lindora’s husband Frank Wilkins Sr. and daughter Gwendolyn Wilkins-Freeman preceded her in death.  Lindora leaves to cherish her loving memory daughters Judy Wilkins, Tammy Littlepage (Phillip), Francine Wilkins, Ramona Thomas (Demtrius) and Felicia Wilkins all of Philadelphia, PA. Daughter Elder Linda (Sunshine)Wilkins-Jefferson (Elder J. Van) and son Frank Wilkins Jr. of Virginia.  Grandchildren Michael Wilkins (Shantel), Khay-yon Wilkins (Tanisha), Dominic Wilkins, Takeeia Peterson (Calvin), Eddie Wilson, Ja’Linda Campbell (Mario), Ja’Van Jefferson, James Jefferson Jr., Monisha Thomas, Ja’Lisa Jefferson, Demetria Thomas, Jabril Wilkins, Eric Wilkins, Zimir Wilkins, Ja’Scotta Jefferson, Darius Thomas, Dajavon Wilkins, Ja’Neese Jefferson, David Lavine Jr., Marquan Thomas, Tylan Wilkins, April Jefferson (Micheal) and Denise Littlepage.  A 4th generation of 30 precious great grandchildren.  Brother Reverend Ernest Dickens of Camden,N.J. and Sister Martha Little of North Carolina. Brother In Law Earl Wilkins (Mary) and Sister In Law Betty Daniels of Philadelphia, PA. Nieces who were very close to her heart, Willa Carnegie and Marcella Brodie. Her Godson, Jontel Brown.  Our Mother had so many others who affectionately called her “Mom”. You know who you are and that you too also held a special place in her heart. We thank you for loving her and being a part of our family. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will cherish her memory.

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