Gary Wilkerson

Gary D. Wilkerson

June 14, 1951 - September 13, 2023

Derby Kansas - Gary Wilkerson restfully departed this earth surrounded by family and friends on September 13, 2023 in Wichita, KS at the age of 72.

Gary graced us with his presence on this earth on June 14, 1951 in Manter, KS. He was born to Glen and Hazel Wilkerson. Gary attended school in Manter, KS, was a graduate of Stanton County High School and went on to receive two elementary education degrees beginning with his bachelors of science from Fort Hays State University in 1973 followed by his masters degree from Wichita State University in 1981.

Gary’s passion for education allowed him to impact many lives throughout his teaching career. Teaching young children allowed him to stay young at heart, which made the experience an incredible journey for both him and his students. He taught in Oberlin, KS for two years before beginning a tremendous career teaching in Derby, KS for 30 years. Gary loved to share his teaching experience with others. His positivity in life was evident to all, and he instilled this quality in his students. Over the years, Gary was recognized numerous times for his excellence in teaching. This included awards for Derby's Elementary Teacher of the Year, Kansas Teacher of The Year nominee, Golden Apple, Master Teacher of the Year and being named an Outstanding Young Man of America. He was inducted into the Kansas Teachers Hall of Fame in 2004.

The pursuit of teaching others did not end with Gary’s retirement from Derby school district in 2006. He taught at Newman University in the School of Education as an Adjunct Instructor and Intern Supervisor for several years. Gary taught there until 2019 when he officially retired and continued living his life to the fullest. Over the years, he was active in numerous local and state professional associations. Gary remained very active in his community by supporting local programs, charitable efforts and volunteering whenever possible.

Gary will very much be missed by all who knew him, especially his family, friends and those who knew him as the special, amazing Mr. W!

Gary is survived by four nieces, Tammy Ryan (Garden City, KS); Kathy Wilkerson (Garden City, KS); Mona Harrison and husband Jessie (Cortez, CO); Glenda Hack (Stanford, OR); two nephews, Anthony Wilkerson (Garden City, KS); Clifford Malone (Cortez, CO); sister-in-law, Nancy Wilkerson (Garden City, KS); honorary niece, Lori Curl (Garden City, KS); honorary friend, Diane Prell (Derby, KS); cousin, Loretta Bearce (Dodge City, KS); 34 great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Hazel Wilkerson; brother, Darrel Wilkerson; sister and brother-in-law, Maxine and CR Malone; nephew-in-law, Clifford Hack and is celebrating with them in Heaven.

Celebration of Life - Saturday, October 7th at 2:00 p.m., Woodlawn United Methodist Church Worship Center, 431 S. Woodlawn Blvd, Derby, KS

Celebration of Life and burial - Monday, October 9th at 10:30 a.m., Manter Methodist Church, 403 Monroe St., Manter, KS

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Derby Education Foundation, 1550 Walnut Grove, Derby, KS 67037.