Benjamin Franklin "Ben" Wilkinson, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, firefighter, mentor, and faithful servant of his community, lived a life defined by honor, hard work, and service. Born on October 5, 1935, in Bulloch County, Georgia, Ben was raised by hardworking parents.

At just 17 years old, Ben answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy on August 4, 1953. During an extraordinary military career spanning 33 years, he faithfully served the United States with distinction as an electrician and retired on August 1, 1986, with the rank of Petty Officer First Class. His service included duty aboard the USS Helena, assignment in Adak, Alaska, and service in the hostile waters surrounding Korea during the Korean War. Throughout his naval career, Ben demonstrated unwavering dedication, professionalism, and patriotism while proudly defending the freedoms enjoyed by his fellow Americans.

While serving his country, Ben also built a lifelong partnership with the love of his life, Betty Jean Wilkinson. The two were married on March 16, 1955, in Ridgeland, South Carolina, beginning a marriage built upon faith, devotion, and unconditional love that served as the foundation of their family for many decades.

Following his military career, Ben enjoyed a distinguished civilian career as an electrician with Union Camp. He dedicated 41 years to the company before retiring in June 1998. His knowledge, dependability, and remarkable work ethic earned him the respect of his coworkers and fellow members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, where he proudly maintained membership throughout his career.

Ben's commitment to service extended far beyond his professional life. For sixteen years, he faithfully served as Captain of Richmond Hill Fire Department Station #1, helping protect the lives and property of countless families throughout the Richmond Hill community. His leadership, courage, and calm demeanor made him an admired firefighter and respected officer.

Believing that investing in young people was one of life's greatest responsibilities, Ben also volunteered as a recreational football coach for middle school-aged children in Richmond Hill. Through sports, he taught discipline, teamwork, respect, and perseverance, leaving a lasting impression on many young athletes whose lives he helped shape.

His faith remained an important part of his life. For more than ten years, Ben was a faithful member of Corinth Baptist Church, where he found fellowship, strength, and spiritual guidance.

Outside of his many commitments, Ben found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time fishing, hunting, gardening, and farming. Whether tending a garden, casting a fishing line, or enjoying the outdoors, he appreciated God's creation and treasured every opportunity to spend time with family and friends.

Above all else, Ben cherished his family. He is survived by his wife, Betty Wilkinson, his three sons: Benjamin A. Wilkinson (Linda), William E. "Eddie" Wilkinson, and Alvin F. Wilkinson, who is deceased, his daughter-in-law, Jackie Wilkinson; his cherished grandchildren: Benjamin Wilkinson Jr., Jessica Goode, Matthew Wilkinson, Corey Wilkinson, Taylar Sadler, Logan Wilkinson, Brittany Hendrix, Dannielle Wywrot, and Cheyanne Sanderson. He was also the proud great-grandfather of ten great-grandchildren each of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his brother, James (Frances) Wilkinson, and his niece, Janice Jaucins.

Ben will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, faithful friend, respected firefighter, dedicated veteran, skilled electrician, and an extraordinary mentor. He led by example, always willing to lend a helping hand, share his knowledge, or encourage someone in need. His quiet strength, unwavering integrity, generous spirit, and lifelong commitment to serving others leave behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Richmond Hill Funeral Home on Monday, July 13th, 2026 with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Hill Crest Abbey West Cemetery in Savannah, GA.