Roy “Bud” Wilkinson, 86, passed away at his home in Southfield on December 28, 2022, after battling cancer for several years.
Born September 2, 1936, son of the late William Wilkinson and Ruth Thompson Decker, Bud grew up in Southfield and graduated from New Marlborough High School in 1954. He went on to work for many years at Gilligan Brothers as a talented mason and carpenter before starting his own construction company, Wilkinson General Contracting.
An avid hunter and fisherman, Bud formed lasting friendships, and one of his greatest joys was to spend time trading stories and remembering antics. Once retired, he enjoyed spending time with his wife Carolyn in their antiques business, restoring furniture, stoves, and collectible items.
Bud is survived by his wife of 65 years, Carolyn Woodbeck Wilkinson; his six children, Scott Wilkinson (wife Kelly), Janet Bouteillier (husband Charlie), Lisa Schneyer (husband Peter), Wayne Wilkinson (wife Jennifer), Carol Ustico, and Nancy Wilkinson; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his brother, Joseph Wilkinson (wife Darlene); and several nieces and nephews. He is pre-deceased by his brother, Richard Wilkinson, and half-brother, William Wilkinson Jr.
Calling hours will be held Thursday, January 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Birches Roy Funeral Home, 33 South Street, Great Barrington. Service and gathering will be held January 13 at 11:30 a.m. at the James Modolo VFW Post in Great Barrington.
Memorial donations may be made to New Marlborough Fire and Rescue, Friends of Moe, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital through the funeral home. Condolences may be made through the website of Birches Roy Funeral Home.
