Bertie Frances (Smith) Wilkes, 78, of Charlotte, AR, entered the gates of Heaven on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Fran was born on February 16, 1947, in Fordyce, AR, to the late Walter Smith and Cora (Oliver) Smith. Fran was of Christian faith and was a member of Batesville First Assembly of God.
Fran loved the Lord and showed His love to everyone she met. She devoted her life and love to her “sweet baby” Hal for 34 wonderful years. She loved decorating, painting, hand-making gifts for family and friends, and serving others as the hands and feet of Jesus.
Fran is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Walter M. Smith; and her sister, Illa Drusilla Smith. She is survived by her loving husband, Hal M. Wilkes, of the home; her son, Philip N. Wilkes (Theresa), of Melbourne, AR; her daughter, Christi L. Wilkes, of Jonesboro, AR; her brothers, Charley L. Smith (Alice), of Strong, AR, and David H. Smith (Barbara), of Fordyce, AR; her sisters, Cora Ruth Smith, of Fordyce, AR, Ruby L. Smith, of Fordyce, AR, and Ida J. Mattox, of White Hall, AR; her sister-in-law, Vickey Smith, of Ivan, AR; 3 grandchildren, DJ Wilkes, Joshua Wilkes, and Jacob Wilkes; 2 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Services are entrusted to Willis Funeral Service of Batesville, AR. The services will be held at Batesville First Assembly of God on Saturday, August 23, 2025. Visitation will begin at 10 AM. The funeral service, officiated by Bro. Chris Jackson, will begin at 11 AM. Interment will follow at Cave Creek Cemetery. Honored to serve as pallbearers will be DJ Wilkes, Jacob Wilkes, Joshua Wilkes, Micah Smith, Dane Smith, and Marion Smith. The family would like to recognize the following people as honorary pallbearers: Greg Mattox, and Doug Mattox.
