Gerald Lee Jerry Pilkinton

A memorial service for Gerald Lee Jerry Pilkinton, of Coolidge will be held 2 pm Sunday October 16, 2011 at 2pm at his home, 152 Penny Lane, Coolidge, GA. Mr. Pilkinton passed away at home on October 13, 2011.He was born January 24, 1945 in Colquitt County, Georgia. He is survived by his wife, Kelley Jean Barwick, his seven children, Page Whittington David of Edwardsville, IL, Renee Pilkinton Nelson McMillon of Ochlocknee, Dana Pilkinton Jamie Rogers of Coolidge, Pam Abbott David of Thomasville, Lee Singletary of Coolidge, Brad Pilkinton Cassie Hemby of Coolidge, and Sherri Rayburn Brian of Boston; fourteen grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sister Kitty Singletary of Thomasville; brother Von Pilkinton of Hilo, Hawaii, and close friends Rick Mosley of Keaton Beach, FL and Joe Beamon of Sylvester, GA. He was preceded in death by his father Delma Pilkinton, his mother Delphy Lane, stepfather Edward Big Boy Lane, and his grandson Logan Lee Pilkinton, and close friend James Burgess. Mr. Pilkinton served in the Army for five years, with two years spent serving as a crew chief in the 162nd Assault Helicopter Company SF5 in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during combat. He is a life member of the DAV and the Vietnam Helicopter Crew Members Association. Mr. Pilkinton was an avid fisherman and loved his family very much. His home was always open to strays, children and dogs included. Many children found their way to his and Kelley's home and their door was always open. He will be loved and remembered for his kind and generous heart. The family will receive family and friends at his residence on Saturday from 4-6 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Thomasville-Thomas County Humane Society, 180 Big Star Dr, Thomasville, Ga 31757or Hospice of Southwest Georgia, 818 Gordon Ave, Thomasville, Ga 31792. Guests may sign the online register at www.allenfh.com