William "Bill" Marion Wilkerson Jr.

William M. Wilkerson, better known as “Bill,” 89, died on Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Great Falls. He was born on August 23, 1934, in Dayton, TN to the late William Wilkerson Sr. and Thelma Wilkerson.

He was preceded in death by his devoted and loving wife, Jennie of 64 years. He is survived by three children who were born to their union, sons, Glenn and Daryl both of Great Falls; daughter, Michelle Wilkerson of Avondale, AZ; 5 granddaughters, Tiler Paliga of Denver, CO, Devin McKinnon of Austin, TX, Mikal Wilkerson of Spokane, WA, Kendel Wilkerson of South Jordan, UT, and Kennedi Wilkerson of Olympia, WA; 3 great-grandchildren, William and Olivia Paliga and Jayden McKinnon; and many relatives and friends.

Bill entered the US Air Force after graduating from high school. He served honorably with assignments at several US installations and overseas assignments. His last duty station was at Malmstrom AFB. The family remained in Great Falls following his retirement. After retiring from the Air Force, Bill transitioned into his second career with the Civil Service, also retiring after 20 years.

In 1993, Bill was inducted into the Montana High School Association Hall of Fame for officiating high school basketball and football. For years across the state of Montana he could be seen in gymnasiums officiating high school basketball games and, in the summer, he was umpiring softball. For those who knew him from his umpiring days, he was known as “Breezey.” He was a sports enthusiast; he enjoyed fishing, golf, and watching the Atlanta Braves or Seattle Mariners games on television.

Bill’s love of sports was almost as great as his love of people. It was rare that Bill would go out in Great Falls and not see someone who knew him. He was loved by so many. He also had a love for his church family at Greater Faith Church of the Open Door.

Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation at 11:00 a.m. followed by a service of remembrance on Monday, March 11, at 12 noon both at Greater Faith Church of the Open Door, 420 2nd Avenue SW, Great Falls. Donations in Bill’s name may be made to Greater Faith Church of the Open Door.