Wilkinson Funeral Home

02/15/2026

02/15/2026

Merrill Gilford Perkins

Merrill Gilford Perkins, 91, was born on May 8, 1934, in Salem, Massachusetts, to Alton and Thelma Perkins. He lived a life defined by faith, devotion, and unwavering love for his family and community.

Merrill was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose steady presence and gentle spirit touched all who knew him. He was preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 60 years, Virginia Perkins. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to commitment, partnership, and enduring love.

Called to ministry, Merrill faithfully served as a dedicated Methodist pastor and was a longtime member of the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church. Throughout his years of service, he shepherded congregations with compassion, wisdom, and humility. His sermons were rooted in grace, his leadership guided by integrity, and his ministry marked by genuine care for others. He walked alongside his parishioners in times of joy and sorrow, offering comfort, encouragement, and steadfast faith.

More than anything, Merrill cherished his family. He leaves behind his daughters, Dawn Hoppes (Tony) and Cheryl Skerlak (Frank), who carry forward his legacy of love and strength. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Elizabeth (Hoppes) Dean, Austin Skerlak (Stephanie), and Carly Marshall (Max), and a joyful great-grandfather to Peyton Hoppes and Finley Marshall. His eyes would light up at the mention of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, in whom he took immeasurable pride.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, February 22, at 2:00 PM at Wilkinson Funeral Home in Concord, North Carolina. The family will greet friends following the service.

Merrill's life was one of service - to God, to his church, and to his family. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the promise so faithfully proclaimed:

"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." - Romans 8:18

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

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02/14/2026

Elizabeth Shuping

Mrs. Elizabeth Kepley Shuping passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Atrium Health Cabarrus following a brief illness.

A Memorial service will be held at a later date at Forest Hill United Methodist Church.

Elizabeth was born October 10, 1950 in Concord, NC to Elizabeth Ann Mauldin Kepley and the late Clayton Clifford Kepley, Sr. She was also preceded in death by her husband L. Stephen Guyton III.

Elizabeth attended Western Carolina University for her undergraduate degree and the University of South Carolina for her Masters in Library Science. She then went on to a long and successful career in Library Science within the South Carolina Library system.

Elizabeth served as Youth Services Coordinator at Horry County Memorial Library where she directed and mentored the Youth Services staff in ten library branches. She was a successful grant writer and secured funding for Literacy Packets for Newborns and Hispanic Outreach. Elizabeth was active in several organizations. She was past President of the South Carolina Library Association (SCLA), and a member of the Young Adults Library Association (YALSA), the Public Library Association (PLA) and the American Library Association (ALA). She was active on several boards including First Steps, First Book and the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY). Elizabeth was a passionate, innovative advocate who fostered literacy, access and creative, engaging activities for youth and their families.

After her retirement she returned home to Concord NC where she restored her 1913 home to its former glory and enjoyed hosting friends and family for holidays and special occasions. She has been an active member of the Concord Historical Society for several years.

Elizabeth loved traveling and over the past several years was able to visit countries in Europe as well as China and South Africa.

She is survived by her mother, Ann Mauldin Kepley, her sister Suzanne Kepley Hall, her brother Clayton Clifford Kepley, Jr. and her stepson Dennis Holt Guyton as well as a number of extended family members.

Contributions in Elizabeth's name may be made to a charitable organization of your choosing.

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02/14/2026

As we celebrate Valentine's Day, let's remember that love isn't limited. Share the spirit of Valentine's Day with your children, your spouse, your friends, and your family.

02/13/2026

Donna Sue Delaney Cecil

Donna Sue Delaney Cecil, 78, of Concord, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on February 12, 2026.

Born July 20, 1947, in Campbell County, Kentucky, Donna was the daughter of the late Dorothy Greer Delaney and the late Jack Delaney. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Jeffrey Scot Cecil, whom she married in 1971 and who passed away in 2012.

Donna carried her Kentucky upbringing with her throughout her life. Raised in a hardworking family shaped by Depression era values, she developed a lifelong appreciation for perseverance, thrift, and kindness. She loved reading from childhood onward and maintained an extensive personal collection of books throughout her life.

She built a respected professional career through dedication and reliability and spent many years as a legal secretary with Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she retired in 2012. In 2017 she moved to North Carolina to be closer to her daughter.

Her greatest joy was her family. She was a loving and committed wife, a proud mother, and a devoted grandmother. As Grandma, she took special pleasure in spoiling her grandchildren. She loved sharing stories about her children and celebrating their accomplishments. Her son affectionately called her "Fuzzy," a nickname that began as a joke and remained a term of love.

Donna had a creative heart and found happiness in making things for others. She enjoyed cross stitching, crafting, and creating lovingly baby blankets for family and friends. She never missed an episode of Jeopardy and usually knew most of the answers. Christmas was especially meaningful to her. Each year she and her husband baked large batches of cookies to share with friends, and her children remember making cookies and fudge together in the kitchen, occasionally sneaking treats from the tray when she was not looking.

She was generous, loving, sassy, and funny, and she cared deeply for the people in her life. Her humor and kindness will be remembered by everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter, Breann Jencka and husband Dan of Concord, and her son, Brandon Cecil and wife Bonnie of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Jocelyn Jencka and Blake Cecil. Donna is also survived by her brothers, John Delaney (Doris) of Kentucky and Michael Delaney of Texas, along with extended family and friends who will miss her deeply.

A private family service will be held.

Donna will be laid to rest beside her husband at Twin Valley Memorial Park in Delmont, Pennsylvania.

Online condolences may be left at wilkinsonfuneralhome.com.

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02/13/2026

Are you grieving the loss of a spouse this Valentine's Day? If you are, please find comfort in this article that validates the strong emotions you're feeling and offers support on the grief journey ahead.

Losing your soulmate is heartbreaking and lifechanging. As a grieving spouse, read these 10 mourning rights and grieve the way you need to.

02/13/2026

Nancy Geraldine Widenhouse

Nancy Geraldine Rimer Widenhouse, 89, of Concord, North Carolina, passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Atrium Health Cabarrus Hospital.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 17, in the Chapel of Wilkinson Funeral Home, officiated by Rev. Josiah McMurphy. The family will receive friends from 11:30 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Carolina Memorial Park.

Born July 18, 1936, in Cabarrus County, Nancy was the daughter of the late Clyde Washington Rimer and the late Ivoyyne T. Manus Rimer. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Michael Wayne Widenhouse; sister, Theresa McDowell.

Nancy devoted much of her life to education. She served as a middle school teacher in the public school system and earned her Master's Degree, reflecting her deep belief in learning and growth. Generations of students were impacted by her steady guidance, thoughtful instruction, and quiet dedication to her work.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Michelle Flynn; her son, Jeffrey Todd Widenhouse; and her cherished grandchildren, Michael Cook (Brittany), Flay Flynn, Jr., Amber Widenhouse, Todd Widenhouse (Ellen), Brian Widenhouse, and Gunnar Widenhouse; great grand children Cassidy, Kinsley, Koa, and Jayden. She is also survived by extended family members and friends who will remember her with love and gratitude.

Memorials may be made to Mt. Pleasant Animal Rescue, 8750 E. Franklin St., Mt. Pleasant, NC 28124, or to N.C. Association of Educators ncae.org or to Cabarrus County Fireman's Benevolent Fund, PO Box 1435, Mt. Pleasant, NC 28124

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02/12/2026

Jamison Shawn Talbert

“His Life Story”

The story of a loving Son, Brother, Uncle, Nephew, Cousin, Colleague, Friend Jamison, Shawn Talbert was born on January 28, 1980 in Charlotte, North Carolina. He transitioned at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte on February 2, 2026 at the age of 46. During his stay in the hospital, he was surrounded by family and friends. Prior to being admitted to the hospital, he lived a fulfilling life in Concord NC and was employed by United Parcel Service.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 pm, on Sunday February 15, 2026 at West Concord Cemetery, officiated by Rev. Larry Morgan. The family will receive friends at Wilkinson Funeral Home from 12:00-2:30 pm prior to the service.

Jamison was the youngest of five children. His Parents, Sharon Pendleton Talbert, Jimmy Cole Wright and Grandparents, Lacy and Flonnie Pendleton, Cole Wright and Elizabeth Holden Wright preceded him in death.

After graduating from JT, Williams, Junior High School Jamison attended Independence High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was during his senior year at Independence that he decided to embark upon a new path in his life which offered him the opportunity to continue growing, learning and making a positive difference in all aspects of his life. In 1998 at the age of 18, he became a proud, devoted member of the United Pacel Service (UPS) team and family in Charlotte. He recently celebrated approximately 28 years of service.

Jamison was the proud father of two loving, talented and highly intelligent Children, Jacari CaShawn Robinson and Ari’el Cheyenne Talbert, who loved, respected and honored him dearly. His UPS family was very important to him. His Boss, Ronnie was a very close friend who he called his Brother and Boss.

Jamison was a bright light, a loving and compassionate father, family member, friend and colleague. His reach stretched far and wide as he touched so many. He was an outstanding leader, supporter, coach and mentor. He could captivate a room with his wide smile and perfect straight white teeth that always grabbed the attention of those he came in contact with. Family and friends shared that he was always a hard and committed worker who started working at the age of 13 and often had several jobs at one time.

Following are just a few of the comments, memories and attributes shared by Jamison‘s family, work family, and friends:

In my opinion he was perfect.

He was loved.

He showed his love through action, sacrifice, protection and always being there. When it mattered most, he taught us about resilience, integrity, and perseverance. His memory will live on with all of us. Although he is gone from our sight, his strength, laughter, and love will never leave our hearts.

He was a member of the bike club. Every time we went to the beach for bike week, we would get out of the car and just start dancing in the streets. We would turn-up the whole strip! He loved to dance, smile and have a good time.

He was loved! He was perfect!

He made a difference! He changed people’s lives and gave back to the community.

There are so many memories of fun times shared, accolades, experiences, teaching moments and of course, that big bright smile! Thank you for a job well done, Jamison. Mr. Jamison Shawn Talbert, you made your mark.

Jamison leaves to cherish his loving memories, his two Children, Ari’el Cheyenne Talbert and Jacari CaShawn Robinson, two Sisters, Tiffany Talbert Burns, (Gerald), Devina Miller(Scott), two Brothers David Love (Beth), Jerry Talbert, two Aunts Barbara Safrit, Martha Jones (Leo), One Uncle, Larry Wright (Stevelyn), a host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, UPS Family, Bike Club Family and extended Relatives and Friends.

A special message: Thanking the Mothers for my two Special Angels, Ari’el Cheyenne Talbert and Jacari ChaShawn Robinson. They are truly gifts from God. Ari’el and Jacari stand strong, pay attention to what has heart and meaning, stay focused and always come from a place of Love. I Love You! April Robinson, you were there and supported me during the last 2 months of my Life in the Hospital! Thank You!!! What you did was important. You are appreciated!!!

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02/12/2026

Ian Michael Richardson

Ian Michael Richardson, 34, of Concord, North Carolina passed peacefully into his Savior’s arms surrounded by his adoring family after an absolutely heroic, 5.5 year battle with Stage IV Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Ian was born to Susan and Mike Richardson on November 1, 1991, in Charlotte, North Carolina. He enjoyed a magical childhood playing board games and video games with his parents and little sister, Kristyn, and rampaging the neighborhood with his many friends, including Simms McElfresh, Michael and Joe Veale, and many others. He attended Charlotte Christian School from kindergarten through twelfth grade and double majored in both History and Political Science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

It was at Carolina that Ian met his soulmate, Katie. At just 19 and 21 years old, Katie and Ian fell quickly and madly in love, and they knew without a doubt that God had made them for each other. They married four years later at Central United Methodist Church on July 22, 2017.

Ian and Katie believed strongly in living life to its fullest. As newlyweds, while Katie attended law school and Ian ran statewide political campaigns, they traveled the world and continued to do so even after Ian became ill. They lived in many different places, making every apartment a cozy home, until they bought a historic house in Concord in 2023—complete with a library for Ian.

Ian was a remarkable man in every way. He had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and believed that intellectual curiosity was the best character trait. He collected hundreds of books and possessed a near-photographic mind—able to recall facts and figures about obscure topics at the drop of a hat. The second best character trait was a quick wit, and Ian kept everyone laughing with his razor-sharp humor and descriptive language. Ian also prized physical fitness and always worked hard to maintain—and often rebuild—his strength. Most of all, Ian was a man of deep faith who loved his family more than anything. The happiest moment of Ian’s life was welcoming his son Theodore (Teddy) Jacobs Richardson into the world on Father’s Day, June 15, 2025.

Ian is survived by his beloved wife of 8.5 years, Katie, and seven month old son, Teddy; parents Susan and Mike Richardson of Charlotte; sister Kristyn and brother-in-law Sam of Arden, NC; parents-in-law Jeff and Janet Crook of Concord; brother-in-law Jonathan Crook of Roanoke, VA; sister-in-law Laura Crook of St. Louis, MO; and many treasured aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. The family would like to thank Dr. Ryan Jacobs and the incredible nurses and providers of the Levine Cancer Institute for their tireless care over many years. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Blood Cancer United (formerly the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society).

Ian’s family will receive visitors at Central United Methodist Church, 30 Union Street North, Concord, NC 28025, from 11:00am to 1:30pm on Saturday, February 14, 2026. Ian’s celebration of life will follow in the sanctuary at 2:00pm, with a graveside service to follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

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02/11/2026

Roy York

Roy Milton York went to his final resting place Sunday, February 8, 2026, with his wife Judy at his bedside holding his hand.

Roy was born in Richmond, VA to the late Roy & Neva York.

Roy was a Vietnam Veteran & volunteered in the Shriners Clown Unit where he was known as "Popsicle". He loved being a clown both in costume and out. He loved putting smiles on all the children's faces and making people of all ages laugh.

Roy was a member of Oak Ridge Baptist Church and served faithfully until his decline in health. Roy was known at church as the "Candy Man". Every Sunday, all the kids had to find Roy to get some candy to eat during church.

Roy was a truck driver for Kraft for many years before an injury caused him to make a career change. Roy opened Triple Crown Sports Cards on Union Street in Concord where he welcomed all the kids to come hangout, trade cards on Friday nights. That brought him so much joy! He loved taking Chris & Doug to ballgames and doing card shows with them.

Roy retired from Cabarrus County Schools where he was a bus driver.

Roy was proceeded in death by his parents Roy & Neva York, brother David, son Doug McLaurin. Roy is survived by his wife Judy (2/17/26 - 36 years), son Chris McLaurin (Claudia), grandsons Andy & Cameron McLaurin, granddaughter Kyrsten Thorpe (Tyler) & great grandson Hayden Thorpe.

The family will receive friends Saturday, February 14 at 3:00 pm and Memorial Service will follow at 4:00 pm at Oak Ridge Baptist Church - 5340 Flowe Store Road, Concord, NC.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Roy York to: Oak Ridge Baptist Church 5340 Flowe Store Rd, Concord, NC 28025 or Humane Society of Concord & Greater Cabarrus County 2010 Wilshire Dr. SW, Concord, NC 28025

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02/11/2026

Laura "Sarah" Allison Lomax

Laura "Sarah" Allison Lomax, 90, of Concord, passed away Monday, February 9, 2026, at Caremoor Retirement Community in Kannapolis.

A service to celebrate Sarah's life will be held Friday, February 13, 2026 at 1:00 PM at New Hope Worship Center, with the family receiving friends from 11:30 AM until 12:45 PM prior to the service. Burial will be at 12:00 PM on Monday, February 16, 2026 at Carolina Memorial Park.

Sarah was born December 21, 1935, in Cabarrus County to the late Annie Lee Overcash Allison and Hoyle Lacy Allison. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Brady Lomax, Sr.; and her brothers, Hoyle "Sonny" Allison, Jr., Frankie Lee Allison, and Martin Ray Allison.

She spent her life pouring love into her family and into the people around her, and she carried a steady strength that could be felt the moment you walked through her door.

Sarah worked for many years in the textile industry, serving in inspection and supervisory roles. She also worked at Concord Printing during the later years of her career. A graduate of high school, she was a person with a strong work ethic and independence, and never lost the practical "let's get to work" spirit that defined her.

Gifted and creative, Sarah was known for her artistic ability-she could draw with remarkable talent-and for the beautiful crocheted tablecloths and bedspreads she made by hand. She was a true "people person," she always enjoyed the neighborhood children and they enjoyed being around her, as well. Her home was a place where people felt welcomed, safe, and cared for. Above all, Sarah loved her family deeply.

She is survived by her sons, Brady Lomax, Jr. (Danita) and Mark Lomax (Paige); grandchildren, Daniel Lomax (Amanda), Christy Lomax, Jennifer Caldwell (Michael), and Lauren Bradford (Heath); and great-grandchildren, Hunter Lomax and Savannah Litaker (Landon). She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Opal Allison.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to New Hope Worship Center, 452 Brookwood Ave NE, Concord, NC 28025.

Sarah's family takes comfort in knowing that her faith became sight, and that she is now at peace in the presence of her Lord.

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