Richard Felan Wilkins

Richard (Rick) Wilkins, age 79, passed away unexpectedly on December 11, 2025 in Independence, Kansas. He leaves behind his wife, Judy Gibson Wilkins. They were married for 54 years. Rick was born on September 8, 1946, to Tom and Doris Wilkins and raised by George and Bertha Stanley (an uncle and aunt) along with two brothers and two sisters. Three of the five that were raised by George and Bertha Stanley have passed away. His biological parents raised nine of the remaining fourteen children. One brother of the nine is deceased. Rick obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Arkansas Polytechnic College in 1968 with a major in music and sociology. Rick started his career as a band director at Harrison Arkansas, traveling on to Clarksville Arkansas, and then Perry Oklahoma.

On June 26, 1971, he was united in marriage to Judy, and they started their lives together. In 1972 Rick and Judy moved to Independence Kansas.

Rick was an insurance agent and Judy was employed at the Four County Mental Health Center as a clinician and supervisor, and then retired in 2013.

After selling insurance for several years Rick then began selling antiques which he did for the remainder of his life. Rick was well known for his knowledge and skills in the antique world. Frequent selling trips were made by him and Judy to markets in Tulsa Oklahoma. This is where many lasting friendships were developed.

Rick was a very devoted husband and will be missed greatly by not only his wife but also by his family and friends.

Visitation for family and friends will be:

Sunday January 4, 2026, from 5pm-7pm at Charles M. Nelson Memorial Chapel 302 E Madison Berryville, Arkansas 72616

Also:

Wednesday January 7, 2026, from 5pm-7pm at Webb & Rodrick Chapel 306 W Main Street, Independence Kansas 67301