Tommy Lee Wilkins

Mr. Tommy Lee Wilkins, 77, of Rural Hall, died Thursday, September 24, 2026 at Forsyth Medical Center. A native of Forsyth County, Mr. Wilkins was born July 1, 1949 to Charles Herman and Pauline Whitt Wilkins, both now deceased. As a young man, he joined the US Army and served during the Viet Nam Conflict. He had a successful career in the plastics industry and was an employee of Gallos Plastics for many years. In 2006, Mr. Wilkins was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 34 years, Karen Ashley Wilkins. Together, they shared a love of bowling and were “regulars” at Northside Lanes and Rural Hall Lanes, where they developed many long-lasting friendships. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Stacy Laine Ayers, and two sisters, Cathy and Judy. He is survived by a son, Chad Steven Wilkins, of Raleigh; five grandchildren, Alex and Megan Prescott, Silas, Sawyer and Salem Wilkins; a sister, Brenda and two brothers, Mike and David. The family will receive friends 6:00-8:00 PM. Thursday, October 1, 2026 at Hayworth-Miller Rural Hall Chapel. To honor Mr. Wilkins’ love of animals, particularly his dogs and cats, the family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial be made to a local animal shelter or rescue organization.