On Saturday, August 16, 2025, Bertie Frances (Smith) Wilkes, 78, of Charlotte, Arkansas, passed through the gates of Heaven. The late Walter Smith and Cora (Oliver) Smith welcomed Fran into the world on February 16, 1947, in Fordyce, Arkansas. Fran belonged to Batesville First Assembly of God and was a Christian.
Fran loved the Lord and showed everyone she came into contact with His love. For thirty-four amazing years, she dedicated her life and love to her darling baby Hal. She enjoyed painting, decorating, making gifts by hand for friends and family, and acting as Jesus’ hands and feet.
Fran’s parents, brother Walter M. Smith, and sister Illa Drusilla Smith, passed away before her. Her devoted husband, Hal M. Wilkes, of the house; her son, Philip N. Wilkes (Theresa), of Melbourne, AR; her daughter, Christi L. Wilkes, of Jonesboro, AR; her brothers, 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; three grandchildren, DJ Wilkes, Joshua Wilkes, and Jacob Wilkes; two great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, family members, and friends survive her.
Willis Funeral Service in Batesville, Arkansas is entrusted with the services. On Saturday, August 23, 2025, the services will take place at Batesville First Assembly of God. At 10:00 AM, the visitation will start. At 11 AM, Bro. Chris Jackson will preside over the funeral ceremony. After that, burial will take place at Cave Creek Cemetery. DJ Wilkes, Jacob Wilkes, Joshua Wilkes, Micah Smith, Dane Smith, and Marion Smith will be honored to carry the pall. Greg Mattox and Doug Mattox are the honorary pallbearers that the family would like to acknowledge.
