Memorial services for former Gillette resident, James A. Wilkerson, 59, of Sheridan will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Kane Funeral Home in Sheridan, with the Rev. Chuck Gifford officiating. Cremation has taken place. Mr. Wilkerson died Thursday, July 25, 2002, at his home of natural causes.

He was born Dec. 30, 1942, to Perce and Dorothy (Brokaw) Wilkerson in Sheridan. He attended Sheridan schools and Sheridan College.

In 1960 he married Barbara Macha and they made their home in Sheridan, raising their six children and numerous foster children.

Mr. Wilkerson became a certified dental technician and worked with Doran Eldridge in Gillette before returning to Sheridan and starting JAWS Dental Lab, which he operated until he became disabled in January 2000.

His primary interest was his children and grandchildren. He attended Mercy and Grace Ministries Fellowship and enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, snowmobiling and spending time in the Big Horn Mountains.

He also enjoyed playing Bingo and cards with his friends.

Mr. Wilkerson is survived by his wife of Sheridan; three daughters, Kimmie Wilkerson and Lori Wilkerson, both of Sheridan, and Nanci Rasmussen of Gillette; two sons, James Wilkerson Jr. of Cuero, Texas, and Harold Wilkerson of Sheridan; seven grandchildren; his sister, Margaret Ketcham of Sheridan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Melanie K. Wilkerson; his parents; his brother, William N. Wilkerson; a nephew; and a great-nephew.

The family has requested that memorials be made in his name to the RENEW SEEF Fund or Mercy and Grace Ministries in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, P.O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Kane Funeral Home in Sheridan is in charge of arrangements.

Gillette News Record - July 29, 2002.