Jay B. Wilkins, Jr.

Jay B. Wilkins, Jr., of Lockhart, went home to be with his heavenly Father on Thursday afternoon, March 13, 2008, while surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was born in Franklin, Texas on March 25, 1921 to Jay B. Wilkins and Dera Wilkins.
Jay was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Norma

Lee Emma Van Marion Wilkins; daughter, Jennifer Sue Wells and husband Ricky; granddaughters Christina (Christy) Louise Davis and husband Chris, Elizabeth Joy Wells; great-grandchildren, Heather Kristine Davis, Brayden Christopher Davis and Genesis Joy Wells; and many other friends whom he loved dearly.
He enlisted in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers where he proudly served his country for two years during World War II. He was awarded three battle participation stars and the meritorious service award and was honorably discharged in 1945.
He married his soul mate, Norma Van Marion on Nov. 26, 1951, in Maryland. They shared 57 wonderful years and they spent their lives building memories.
He studied Pre-Law and Business Administration at the University of Texas at Austin and then graduated from American University Law School in Washington, D.C., with a Juris Doctor in 1957. The same year, Jay and Norma moved to Austin, Texas, where Jay began his private law practice, which lasted for over 50 years.
In the late 1960s, his life-long dream of having a ranch came true. Jay and Norma raised Santa Gertrudis cattle on their 500-acre ranch on a beautiful hilltop in Lockhart, Texas, for almost 40 years.
Jay was an avid Texas Longhorn fan who thoroughly enjoyed watching basketball and football. He had many hobbies but his passion was working in his enormously beautiful rose and vegetable garden. Hunting and fishing was also a great interest to Jay.
He was also a 32nd- and 33rd- degree Mason and was a member of the Ben Hur Shrine. He was an attorney for the Scottish Rite Dormitory for many years. He also provided 40 years of selfless, dedicated service and gratis legal advice devoted to the advancement of Maxwell Water Supply Corporation.
Jay was a member of numerous organizations over his lifetime, including life membership in Parson Lodge #222, the American Legion, and Royal Order of Jesters. He was an accredited life judge for the American, San Antonio and Austin Rose Societies.
Jay was an honest, intelligent, hardworking, caring and giving man. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.
The family would like to express heartfelt appreciation to the sincere and caring staff at San Marcos CTMC and Brackenridge Emergency Rooms, especially: Suzanne Kennedy, LMSW, Father Frank, Chaplains Elizabeth Gibson and Molly Collins, Dr. Stokes, Dr. Magallanes and the other nurses who comforted them during this difficult time.
Family and friends are welcome for visitation at McCurdy Funeral Home, 105 E. Pecan Street, Lockhart, Texas, on Wednesday, March 19, from 4 – 7 p.m.
Services will be at McCurdy Funeral Home on Thursday, March 20, at 10 a.m. with burial following at Lockhart City Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Royce McClinton, Joe Brewer, LaVerne Schaefer, Ferdie Scharschmidt, Roger Haug and Dana Garrett.
Immediately after the graveside service, please join the family for snacks and sharing of thoughts and loving memories at the St. Paul”s United Church of Christ located at 762 S. Main St.
Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements under the care and direction of McCurdy Funeral Home, 105 E. Pecan St., Lockhart, Texas.