In Loving Memory of Jackie Payne Wilkey

Jackie Payne Wilkey, 70, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2026.

Jackie was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend whose generous spirit touched many lives. He worked primarily as a design painter and took great pride in his work and the things he created.

Above all, family mattered most to him. He cherished time spent together—making memories, having fun, and enjoying life with those he loved. His dogs were also cherished members of his family and brought him great companionship and happiness.

Jack enjoyed fishing, working in the yard, spending time with his friends, and doing scratch-offs. He loved having fun and enjoying the simple things in life. He had a very big heart and was a kind and giving man who loved being surrounded by the people he cared about.

Jackie's warmth, laughter, generosity, and love for his friends, family, and animals will be deeply missed.

Jackie is survived by his spouse, Melanie Wilkey; his children, Jack Wilkey Jr. and his wife Tara, Jason Wilkey and his wife Heather, Alex Adams, Eric Adams and his wife Caroline, and Katie Wilkey; his siblings, Nathan Wilkey and his wife Tammy, Debbie Lockwood and her husband Gary, and Vicky Godwin and her husband Eddie; his mother-in-law, Elinor Minshew, whom he considered his second mom; his brother-in-law, Michael Minshew; his grandchildren, Brock Wilkey, Zada Wilkey, Arwyn Wilkey, Connallie Wilkey, Jonathan Wilkey, Rachel Wilkey, Alyssa Wilkey, Allison Wilkey, Tyson Wilkey, Poppy Adams, Birdie Adams, and Aiden Wilkey; and many other family members and friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Catherine and Fred Wilkey, and his siblings, Freddy Wilkey and Jeff Wilkey.

Jackie leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love, laughter, kindness, and generosity. His family will remember his big heart, his fun-loving spirit, his devotion to those he loved, and the special bond he shared with his dogs.

He will be deeply missed, but he will never be forgotten.

Wake / Celebration of Life

Family and friends are invited to join us in remembering and celebrating the life of Jack.

We will gather together to share memories, stories, laughter, and love as we honor the life of a truly special man.

Date: October 3rd

Time: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Location: The Wilkey Home

416 Godwin Street, Marshville, North Carolina 28103

Everyone who knew and loved Jack is welcome to come together, raise a glass, share a story, and celebrate his life in the Irish tradition of remembering someone not only with sadness, but with love, laughter, and cherished memories.