Gertrude Witherspoon Wilkes was born on January 13, 1924 to Willie and Daisy Witherspoon of Lancaster, SC.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Napoleon Wilkes; son, Napoleon Wilkes, Jr.; her parents; and eleven siblings.

"Gert", as she was affectionately called, began her early years in Waxhaw, NC until the eighth grade.  She continued he education and began her family life in Winston-Salem, NC where she attended Atkins High School.  She was an avid reader and was always at the top of her class.  She stayed abreast of current affairs and enjoyed spirited conversations.  She married her life-long love, Napoleon Wilkes, and to this union three children were born.  As a mother and homemaker, Gert kept her home spotless and organized.  She was well known for her delicious egg custard pie!

A devoted member of St. John CME Church, she was an active member of the Missionary Society and Stewardess Board.  She loved her church and praising the Lord.  Always available to serve in the work of God, her membership remained for over seventy years.

Cherished memories of her life with her husband of seventy-two years will be shared by her family for years to come.  She is survived by her two sons, Melvin (Shirley) Witherspoon of Waxhaw, NC and Johnny Ray (Doris) Witherspoon of Lancaster, SC; two daughters, Shirley W. Royster of Duluth, GA and Veronica W. (Albert) Conner of Winston-Salem, NC; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother, Willie Thomas (Lena) Witherspoon of Winston-Salem, NC; daughter-in-law, Sandra Wilkes; other relatives and friends.

The family is gratefully thankful for the loving care provided by her special sister-in-law, Lena Witherspoon; devoted niece, Mary Jackson; and her caregiver, Vera Littlejohn.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 6:00pm Friday, January 15, 2021 at Russell Funeral Home.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00pm Saturday, January 16, 2020 in Gardens of Memory, Walkertown, NC with Dr. Valerie Tate Everette officiating.