Charles was born on July 28, 1932 in Yarrellton, Texas. He graduated from Bishop High School and attended Texas A&I University until he joined the Air Force in 1951. During his service he was a staff sergeant and crew chief airplane mechanic in the 9th air refueling squadron. He received the National Defense Service medal, Good Conduct medal, Korean Service medal, and the United Nations Service medal.

After serving his country, he went to work for Celanese Chemical Company in Bishop, Texas and continued his employment for 37 years. In 1957, he met and married the lifelong love of his life, Peggy. They were married for 63 years and virtually inseparable.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Cleo Wilkerson, and his son, Charles H. Wilkerson, Jr.

Survivors include his wife Peggy, son Mark, daughter Jan, brother Kenneth (Susie), grandchildren Hailey, Ashley, BJ, (Shauna), Mark (Kristen), Benjamin (Brittany), and Christopher, as well as 10 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 2 at Thomason Funeral Home in San Marcos. A memorial service will follow at 10:30 a.m. Arrangements are under the direction of Thomason Funeral Home. For more information and to sign the online registry, please visit thomasonfuneralhome.com.