A great man full of generosity, love and compassion, Larry Wilkes passed away June 20, 2016.  
A native of Toombs County, Lyons, Georgia, Larry was the oldest son of J.C. and Merle Wilkes.  He grew up enjoying the beautiful surroundings of farm land, fresh air, and family.  He always reached for excellence and shared his love selflessly.
Larry married Sandra Meek of Macon, Georgia, and they were blessed with two sons, John Clarence Wilkes, III (Trip) and William Jeremy Wilkes.  Larry enjoyed watching his sons grow, and he was proud of the fine men they are today.  There was a strong bond among them and they were the lights of his life.  
A graduate of the University of Georgia, Larry was an early leader in the computing world.  He created computer programs and taught people how to use them.  Later he pioneered in the introduction of bar codes and many other technologies we now use every day.  He loved being on the cutting edge of technology.  In his retirement, he enjoyed nature, was an avid photographer and listening to music like Buddy Holly or The Eagles was always joy for him.  
For the last ten years of Larry’s career he became a teacher and started an AP Computer Science Program of Study at Etowah High School in Cherokee County, which became one of the leading programs in the state.  He was an amazing creative teacher who was loved by many students.
Larry was a deep thinker of great insight, a spiritual man, an intellectual, and he always honored his deep Southern roots.  His intentions were always full of love and enlightenment.
Larry has a loving and close family.  His wife, Sandra, sons Jeremy and Trip, daughter-in-law Heather, and grandson Gavin are what mattered most to him, and he was dearly loved and respected in return.
He will also be missed by his mother, Merle P. Wilkes, and four siblings:  Greg Wilkes, Cynthia Smith, Deidre Forsyth, and Lydia Barfoot, and a large extended family.
He cherished his personal relationship with God and believed in eternal life. His family rejoices in his reunion with his father, J.C., and his eternal Father in heaven.
Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, June 25, 2016, at First United Methodist Church of Lyons with Pastor Jim Morrow officiating.
Stewart-Rosier Funeral Service Lyons Chapel is in charge of local funeral arrangements.