Clem Wilkes Jr., Johnson City, passed away on Sunday, December 13, 2020, at the age of 67.
Clem was born in Johnson City, Tennessee, and lived there for a majority of his life.
After earning a BS in history at East Tennessee State University, Clem began his career in the pharmaceutical sales industry until 1978. He transitioned to a successful career as an investment broker, where he served his clients for 34 years. Clem retired from Citizens Investment Services in 2019.
While Clem was successful in his career, his passion was as a servant leader. Clem was a member of the Mountain States Health Alliance Board of Directors and served in various leadership roles there, including a term as Chairperson. He also served as a member of the Ties for the Blind Foundation, Johnson City Parks and Recreation advisory board, ETSU’s Buccaneer Athletic Scholarship Association and the Johnson City Lion’s Club. He was also a lifelong member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, serving as lay Eucharistic minister, senior and junior warden of the vestry. He still found time to volunteer as a reader at South Side Elementary School.
He was recognized by the Mountain States Foundation as a Spirit Award recipient in 2012 for his dedication and passion to the community. He was also named to the Johnson City Parks and Recreation Wall of Fame, received the Milligan College Leader in Christian Service Award, was named by the Johnson City Lions Club as Lion of the Year and Lion of the Decade, and he was recognized with the Donald R. Jeanes Humanitarian Leadership Award.
Above all, Clem was a dedicated husband, father and Poppa who built long lasting relationships with his family and close friends. He was humble and sincerely grateful for everyone in his life, and he always found ways to give to others before even considering himself. Clem married his high school sweetheart, Tonya, and the two remained together for 46 years. In addition to Tonya, Clem is survived by their two children, daughter, Elizabeth Wilkes Rabb (Marc and Ella), and son, Clem “Bo” Wilkes III (Taylor, Hamilton and Palmer), brother Haynes Miller Wilkes and sister Dorothy Wilkes Bedor. Clem is preceded in death by his father, Clem Wilkes Sr.; mother, Dorothy “Dotty” Wilkes; and sister, Cabell Wilkes Lonon.
The family would like to thank his colleagues at Citizens Bank and Citizen Investment Services, as well as caregivers at the Hospice House of Bristol.
Due to COVID 19 safety concerns, the family will hold a graveside service on Friday, December 18th 12, noon at Monte Vista Memorial Park. The Reverend Laura Bryant will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to East Tennessee State University and St. John’s Episcopal Church.
01/07/2021
Debby Franz, Richmond, VA
My heart goes out to Clem’s family and friends. Clem was my financial advisor after my father passed in 2009. He became my friend over the next ten years, as I relied on him for guidance through so many questions and financial ups and downs. I was very new to this situation, but Clem was there every time I called or visited him. I miss him dearly, and I hope his family will find peace in knowing how Clem touched so many lives and is loved and respected by so many people. Clem told me once that my father would have been proud of me and how I handled my financial affairs. That meant a great deal to me. Rest In Peace dear Clem. I thank you for your wisdom and friendship now and forever. Love to your family.
I was Clem’s neighbor as a child. He was an unfailingly nice guy then, and while I rarely saw him as an adult, it is clear that his giving and caring nature continued throughout his life. The world is diminished by this loss. My sympathy to his family.
01/03/2021
Ruth and Ed Csanady
We just learned of Clem's passing. Our sympathy and prayers to the family. He was a wonderful man and friend. Our hearts are sad. God bless.
12/29/2020
Anne Jennings Arnstrom
Thinking of you and your family, Tonya, in the sad loss of your lifelong sweetheart. Growing up just two blocks from Clem, I always enjoyed him, and then as an adult living in MN, I heard so many wonderful things about Clem through family and friends. May God’s love and strength be with you all.
12/23/2020
Roger & Joyce Painter
Dearest Tonya, to say we were shocked at Clem's passing would be an understatement; he was one of those friends who was always the same throughout the years and it is difficult to realize that he is no longer here. However, we who hold on to the promises of God can be confident in the fact that we will see him again! Unfortunately for those of us left behind for now, this world keeps changing with every passing of friends and family. Until we are with them again, we have the memories they have left us with and the reassurance of God's Holy Spirit. We pray that His Spirit gives you and your family peace and comfort, now and in the days to come.
12/22/2020
Mike Whitehead
It’s been nearly 16 years since I left JC and I have rusty memories of my time there but many fond memories of Clem and the Falcons soccer team. Clem was always finding humor and bringing wisdom to any situation. He will be remembered and missed.
Dear Tonya, My heart is saddened to hear that Clem passed. I pray God's peace and comfort for you and your family
It was a privilege to get to know Clem over the years at Citizens Bank. He always treated others with dignity and respect. He is missed by many!
I have many wonderful memories of Clem working with the vestry and members of Saint johns. He was an important person to me during my time. I’ll give thanks for his ministry personal witness to servant leader ship. Offer my prayers and blessings for Tonya, Beau, Elizabeth And those will miss him the most.
12/18/2020
Andrew and Lindsay Boozer
The Boozers have you in our prayers. Mr Wilkes was a special man who always treated me like one of his own. I always loved hearing his stories and as I got older hearing those stories grow like a well aged fishing tale. We will miss him and hold you all in our prayers. Please give “Kitty” a hug for us.
12/18/2020
Stephanie (Fox) Apple
Dear Tonya, Elizabeth and Bo,
Sending each of you my love, thoughts and prayers! Clem was very dear to me- I have such fond memories of him. He had a smile that would light up a room and he had a way of making everyone he encountered feel special. He was truly the best example of a husband and father. We have lost a bright light in the world. I am keeping each of you close to my heart!
With all my love,
Stephanie
12/18/2020
Mike and Peggy Voitlein
Please know all of you are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time
12/18/2020
Sandra C. Jennings
I am so sorry to learn about Clem I knew him through Citizens Bank. He was always helpful and professional. He will be missed by many. I am lifting your family up in prayer. I know you have many wonderful memories of him that you will always cherish.
12/18/2020
Nancy and Harry Gibson
Dear Wilkes Family, We were saddened to hear of Clem's passing we've said many prayers for him during his long illness . We wanted you all to know you're in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time We pray for God to be with you and give you PEACE. We both thought the world of Clem. Such an excellent man!!!!!! He was loved by all who knew him. God bless you and hold you in His LOVING ARMS. Love you, Nancy and Harry Gibson
12/18/2020
Lynda Whittington
My sincere heartfelt condolences to Tonya and the Wilkes family. Clem was a wonderful person and a pleasure to work with. He will be greatly missed.
12/17/2020
Pam and Randy Johnson
Tonya...know that Randy and I are so sorry for your loss and that you will be in our daily prayers. Hold your children and grandchildren close. You will gain strength from the love you all share for Clem as a wonderful husband, father, brother, and friend.
Bo and Taylor, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this time. I am so sorry for your loss.
12/17/2020
barbara g taylor
sooooo thinking about you tonya you are so special & you were married to a very special guy like i was
my heart goes out to you & i am here for you i so miss seeing you all at church
I am so sorry to hear of Clem's passing. He was a true southern gentleman and I really enjoyed the times I spent with him while we were trying to build a neighborhood. It was a better place with him in it.
12/17/2020
Cynthia Atkins
So sorry for your loss. Your family made wonderful neighbors. Thinking of your family through this difficult time.
12/17/2020
BILLY AND CORA SUE PIKE
Tonya and family....we were very saddened to learn of Clem's passing. Clem was a wonderful individual who was always looking to help others....he was a man of strong character and integrity and he will be missed, especially in JC Lions club, where he served by example....praying for family
Bo, Taylor and Ms. Wilkes -
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. While I only met Clem a few times, he was always gracious and kind and I know his impact in the community and family while live on in the hearts and minds of many. May the peace and comfort only God can provide be with you in the coming days and weeks during your grief.
Very sorry to hear of Clem's passing. I know he had a very tough struggle. I enjoyed working with Clem in youth sports, clubs and ETSU functions through the years. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Gene Ploucha
My heartfelt condolences go to the family. Clem was a wonderful caring person to work with. He will be missed
12/17/2020
Dee Dee Cox Evans
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers at this sad time. I am wishing you all peace and comfort.
Tonya and family, you are in my prayers. What beautiful tributes to Clem and your life together expressed on this page. You and Clem have a wonderful legacy and have lived an honorable life reflected in the words and sentiments here, he was and is so precious to us. I pray this gives you comfort in the days ahead. I'm adding at Big Arch's request, Go With GOD.
12/16/2020
Randy and Deb Kind
Our thoughts and prayers are of you
Tonya, Elizabeth and Bo. We will always cherish the memories.
12/16/2020
Preston Campbell
Clem was a close childhood and high school friend who I enjoyed watching become a great man. He was always giving and helping others. Tonya, Bo and Elizabeth and family I am so sorry for your loss and will be thinking and praying for you at this time.
Clem was a great friend who demonstrated compassion to to others and his community in so many ways. He served as the campaign chairman of my school board candidacy. I was amazed by his cheerful approach and effective leadership. There is definitely a mansion in heaven for this gentleman. Best wishes and recovery for his great family. I will miss him.
I am deeply saddened to learn of Clem's passing. My prayers go out to Tonya and the entire family, and may you find comfort in wonderful memories of Clem's life well-lived. God Bless you all.
dont really have words, thank you tonya and family and friends for your love and care for my friend, amen
12/16/2020
Tommy and Semone Burleson
We are saddened with the loss of Clem. He was a great friend and will be missed. Our prayers go out to Tonya and the family. May God bless you and fill you with wonderful memories.
12/16/2020
Holly and Tim Davison
Tonya and family, we are so sorry for your loss. You are in out thoughts and prayers.
12/16/2020
Jessica and Ben Pollock
Elizabeth and Wilkes family, we are sending all our love at the loss of your sweet dad.
12/16/2020
Ken and Jane Broyles
Tonya and Family,
So sorry to hear this news.
Several years ago, I was at my JCMC service awards banquet in Kingsport, and after I walked across the stage for my 35 years, Clem got up from his table to meet me as I exited the stage and congratulate me! I’ll always remember him just like that- because that was Clem.... just a nice guy always!
Our whole family sends our love....
Ken and Jane Broyles
Dear Tonya, I'm so sorry for your loss. You and Clem were such a great couple. Take Care of Yourself, and know that I am thinking of you in your time of sorrow.
12/16/2020
Pam and Bill Pittman
We were so saddened to hear of Clem's passing. He was a great person and so well liked. Bill enjoyed serving with Clem in the Lion's Club and enjoyed knowing him for years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you through this difficult time. With deepest sympathy,
Pam and Bill Pittman
12/16/2020
Ronnie and Lisa Heaton
Words cannot describe how sorry I am for your loss. You're in our prayers.
12/16/2020
Beverly Davis White
Love and prayers for his entire family. Clem was a success in life, career, family and most of all Love. Thinking of your family.
12/15/2020
Steve Humphries
So sorry to hear of the passing of Clem. A long time friend. I have missed him and Tonya coming to our complex and hollering at Clem. May God's peace be with all of you. I love you Alley Girl! I am praying for your peace during this time.
Clem was the epitome of the True Gentleman. Friendly and kind to all. My sincere condolences to Tonya, Elizabeth and Bo.
I’ve known Clem since elementary school at Training School/University School. Clem was kind, loyal, humble, intelligent and funny. I enjoyed keeping up with Clem at ETSU sports events through the decades as a fellow Buccaneer basketball and football enthusiast. My deepest condolences to Clem’s family. My life has been Blessed and enriched by knowing Clem Wilkes.
12/15/2020
Linwood & Lea Metts
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to Tonya, Elizabeth, Bo and family. What a wonderful life Clem lived on this earth, as a giver, which is so well exemplified in this beautiful obituary. We give thanks that Clem knew the Lord and the promise of eternal life. We pray God will give you all comfort and may you find peace as you reflect on so many treasured memories, as you celebrate Clem's life. Our Sincere Love and Deepest Sympathy, Linwood & Lea Metts.
12/15/2020
Maureen and Murdock MacIver
We will miss you very much. Remebering all the good times we spent on the MSHA board. What a great person that always put others first. RIP my friend.
12/15/2020
Scott Tutterow
Clem was one of the best. I will be forever grateful for the kindness and friendship him and his family showed my family.
So sad to hear of Clem’s passing. He was a prince of a fellow, a solid citizen, a stand up guy, always friendly. My condolences to Tanya and children, Haynes, Dorothy and Louisa.
What a wonderful individual - I remember vividly each interaction with him as he made people feel special.
12/15/2020
Patsy Woodward
I feel like I have lost a family member, I loved Clem’s sense of humor. He was a people person and was loved dearly. I will miss him .
12/15/2020
Kathryn Wilder
Very saddened by this news. Clem was a good soul and he will be missed by so many friends and family. Tonya, I had no idea that Clem had been ill. I am so sorry I am out of the loop with old friends. It seems just like yesterday I saw you both in Kroger. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
12/15/2020
Patty Anderson Lloyd
So sorry for your loss. I hope wonderful memories and time will ease the pain of your loss. Your family is in our prayers and thoughts.
You will be missed, a fine friend over may years. Always a gentleman. My thoughts go to Tonya and your family. Good by old friend.
I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Tonya and the entire Wilkes family. I have known Clem for over thirty years, both in his professional capacity and during his long tenure on the Johnson City Parks & Recreation Board where he served as chairman. In his service to this community, Clem will be long remembered for his leadership, dedication and good nature . God Bless him.
12/15/2020
Tom and Jean DeBord
Thinking of your family during this time. Our prayers are that you are at peace.
12/15/2020
Keith and Beverly Anders
Our deepest sympathies to Tonya and all the family. Clem was a great guy, and I enjoyed playing Church Basketball with him. Enjoyed his years serving at the church. All the best to you all.
12/15/2020
Randy and Cathy Humphries
Tonya and family; So sorry for the loss of your husband, Father and friend to you and all of us fortunate to have known him. We share with you the sorrow of his passing and yet rejoice in his heavenly reward. May God bless you in this difficult time. Randy and Cathy
12/15/2020
Debbie Diehl Tanis
Tonya and family, We've lost a great one!! Honestly, he fought the good fight and you were there every step of the way.
Clem was such a good friend of our Dad's, as well as Barbie, Judy, Johnny, and me. We hurt for you as Clem and all of you have been through so much. Thanks for loving him! -Debbie
12/15/2020
Maryetta Shadoan Elliott
Dear Wilkes family,
I was so sad to hear this news. Clem was a wonderful person and there will be void in the community, the lives of all who knew him, and of course in his family. On behalf of the Shadoan, please accept our condolences.
Maryetta Shadoan Elliott
