David Thomas Wilkinson, 68, of Gloucester, Va., died on September 15, 2024, with his family by his side.
Dave was born on January 5, 1956 in Havre de Grace, Maryland, to Mary and James Wilkinson. He was the second of five boys. He is survived by his daughters, Judith Dubey (John), Julia Wilkinson, Elysha Wilkinson, and Coral Litzau (Adrien); granddaughters, Brenna Wilkinson, Ireland Wilkinson, Amber Goens, Bridey Dubey, Leanne Goens; grandson, Alexander Litzau; as well as one (older) brother, John Wilkinson (Beth).

Dave was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Lynn, who suddenly passed away in April 2023; his parents, Mary and James; his great-granddaughter, Audrey, and three of his four brothers, Ricky, Bobby and Joe Wilkinson.
Dave and Lynn moved to Gloucester in 1994, while Dave was still active-duty Coast Guard (Yorktown); retiring two years later and remaining in the community they had come to love. This ended a 22-year long career as a devoted Coastie serving on many different bases and ships throughout this career. Dave (also known by his nickname “Wilkie”) began his Coast Guard service in Cape May, N.J., in 1974 on the CGC Sassafras, and went on to be stationed in St. Petersburg, Fla., Homer, Ark., Yorktown, Va., Portsmouth, Va., Memphis, Tenn., and then returning to retire in Yorktown, in 1996. While in the Coast Guard, Dave was known for his musical talents and ability to play many instruments (tenor saxophone, clarinet, bassoon, to name a few) while performing in the Coast Guard Band and the York River Orchestra.

After his Coast Guard retirement, Dave started his home repair and remodeling business, making a name for himself with his attention to detail and genuine care for each of his customers. After retirement, Dave would become a lifetime member and active part of the American Legion Post #75 in Gloucester, later becoming Commander of this post from July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2009. In 2003, Dave became a Master Mason at the Botetourt Masonic Lodge #7 and would continue for the next 21 years, becoming Worshipful Master of this Lodge in 2008. Upon moving to Gloucester in 1994, one of Dave and Lynn’s goals was to find a church they felt welcomed to and a part of. They found this in Olive Branch United Methodist Church (now Olive Branch Global Methodist Church) and they would go on to be active members of this church for the next 30 years. Dave was a member of the Pastor Parish Committee (PPR), a past Trustee, a Sunday School teacher, and was past President of the United Methodist Men at Olive Branch. He was also active in other ways at his church throughout the years; many times playing the role of Jesus in plays, as well as being a devoted member of the choir both at Olive Branch and its then sister church, Salem. The American Legion, Masonic Lodge, Olive Branch Church, the Coast Guard, and his business meant a lot to Dave and he took pride in being a part of all of them. The only thing that surpassed all of these accomplishments was his devotion, love, and pride as a grandfather to his six grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Olive Branch Church (10833 Harcum Road, Gloucester, Va. 23061) on Monday, November 4, 2024 at 3 p.m. A burial service will follow for Dave, and his beloved wife, Lynn, so they may rest in eternity together. Preparations/cremation services and support at the ceremony will be provided by Andrews Funeral Home. Members of the American Legion Post #75, as well as Botetourt Masonic Lodge #7 plan to be in attendance and participate in the service. Flowers can be accepted at Andrews Funeral Home to be displayed at the service and graveside at Olive Branch Church.