Vivian Wilkins
Age - 102
December 4, 2023
Vivian Gloridene Wilkins was born on December 9, 1920, in Stephens, Arkansas to her parents, the late Jake and Bulah Cooks. She passed away peacefully, age 102, on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at Presbyterian Village in Little Rock, Arkansas. Vivian was the last surviving sibling of six brothers and seven sisters. Vivian graduated from Magnolia High School in Magnolia, Arkansas. She was a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (formerly known as A & M University). Vivian was a serious child who was always concerned about her spiritual needs. At the age of 10, she became a member of St. James A. M. E. Church in Stephens. During her early adult married life and shortly after moving to Camden, she joined St. James A. M. E. Church. She was an active and tireless member at St. James. She held various positions including secretary for the Sunday School, president of the Women's Missionary Society, vice president of the Stewardess Board, a member of the kitchen committee and a delegate to the annual convention. An avid educator and mentor, Vivian taught school in the Arkansas school system for a total of 36 years. Of the 36 years of teaching, 22 of those years she taught in the Camden Public School District. She retired from teaching 2nd grade special education at Carver Elementary in May 1983. Although she may have officially retired from teaching, she never really retired. Always the consummate educator, she sought out opportunities to teach and mentor others. From gardening to cooking, ABCs to life lessons, she willingly and lovingly shared with others her wisdom. Her desire for equality for all races drew her to become a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). She served as a secretary in the local chapter. She was a lifetime member. Vivian taught her own children that God sees no color, and neither should they. God is impartial. Vivian was often described as being an elegant lady. She exuded a quiet confidence in her many endeavors. Her family would say she was fearless. She was neither afraid of anything nor anyone. She could "light up" any room with her presence. Her loved ones will tell you that she was an undeniable force, a strong influence in their lives, an EXCELLENT cook, seamstress and gardener. She was proud of her family, and they revered her. This multi-talented, multi-faceted, and beautiful lady will be greatly missed. On March 17, 1938, Vivian married her one and only love, James H. Wilkins. They were married for 46 years until his death on June 30, 1984. Vivian and James became parents to Cleo Vivian Wilkins and Alfred James Wilkins. They would later adopt their granddaughter, Sharon. Vivian was preceded in death by her husband, James, her daughter, Cleo, sisters: Pearl, Jessie Ruth, Ruby, Jean, Dorothy, Verdia, Ruby, and brothers: Curley, Morris, Ted, Edward, James Curley and Little Jake. Her legacy includes her son Alfred Wilkins (Elaine), of Hanover, Maryland, granddaughter/daughter Sharon Wilkins Frazier (Darrick) of Little Rock, Arkansas, granddaughter Yalonda Adams, of Hanover, Maryland, great grandsons, Jaylen Adams and Brenden Adams of Hanover, Maryland and Dairick Frazier of Little Rock, Arkansas. Vivian leaves behind many nieces, nephews, friends, and acquaintances across the country to celebrate her life. A life well lived. There are no gallery images. #recaptcha-container label {display: none}Upload a PhotoLabel: *Image: *Gallery:Obituary Photos Required Confirmation: Upload Gallery ImageShow more
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