Paul Tenery Wilkerson, Sr.

Paul Tenery Wilkerson, Sr. died in the early morning hours of Saturday, January 8, 2011 at his home in Pinetop, Arizona from causes incident to his age. He was 92 years old. Paul was born on May 9, 1918 in Waxahachie, Ellis County, Texas to the late Lonnie Carroll and Virginia Ledgerwood (Gill). He graduated in the mid 1930's from Polytech High School in the Dallas-Fortworth, Texas area. While in high school he became quite involved with its R.O.T.C. program and where he excelled and demonstrated great leadership skills. A few years later, as a young man he felt his patriotic duty and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he served as a bomber pilot during WWII serving with the 389th Bomb Group. While serving in the European Theatre, his bomber was shot down by enemy fire and, miraculously, he lived to tell his story. He truly was a war hero and was decorated with several medals and ribbons for his bravery including the Flying Cross and the 3 Oak Cluster. His family was so proud of the sacrifices he made, personally, in the name of our Nation's Freedom. Following his valiant service and honorable discharge he continued with his love of flying. He worked as a pilot throughout his long life. For several years he was a flight training instructor for countless other pilots. He was still flying clear in to his 80's and loved every moment in the air. On July 2, 1944, Paul married the true love of his life, Claretta Mae nee Robinson, in Tucson, Arizona. They were married for nearly 67 years together and truly found the joy that life has to offer. When Paul was in his late 50's, he learned to ski. He found it to be very invigorating and became a skilled cross-country skier as well. When he was in his 70's, Paul learned the art of stained glass and was able to making many beautiful things over the years. His family now values each of his creations as individual treasures. Always looking for the thrill in life, Paul became an avid motorcyclist. He made several trips across the entire United States. The last trip he made on his motorcycle across the country was at the age of 84! His traveling partner was his favorite person in the whole wide world, his sweet Claretta. She rode all the way across the country sitting on the back of his motorcycle. They were even able to take their little dog along for the ride. They truly had a wonderful, marvelous and adventurous time. Paul was also a long time member of the Free & Accepted Masons and was recently recognized with a special plaque commemorating his 50 plus years with the Masonic Lodge. Again, a beautiful accomplishment for an incredibly unique man. This great man will be missed by the many friends he has impacted through his life as well as his family. However, none will miss him more than those he loved the most...his family. Paul Tenery Wilkerson, Sr. is survived by: his wife, Claretta R. Wilkerson of Pinetop, Arizona; 5 children: Paul T. Wilkerson, Jr. of Pinetop, Arizona and Thailand, Carolyn Sue (Octavio) Molera of Sahuarita, Arizona, Lynda T. Aschauer of Pinetop, Arizona, Sally Ruth Lillee (Donan) Smouse of Fallbrook, California, James Wilkerson of Pinetop, Arizona; 6 grandchildren: Stacia (Dan) Erckenbrac, J. Michael Wilkerson, Jason Lee Wilkerson, Richard Allen (Sharon) Fergus, Karis (Kevin) Davidson, Dawna (Kevin) Papenhousen; 10 great-grandchildren: Christine Fergus, Samantha Fergus, Aspen Rose Fergus, Carter Hamilton, Zach Hamilton, Bert Hamilton, Nikki Fairfield, Jacob Moleneaux, Jared Stone, Tera Stone; and 1 great-great-grandson, Anthony Michael Evan. Along with his parents, Paul was preceded in death by 1 granddaughter, Connie Jean Wilkerson and 1 great-grandson, Evan Moleneaux. His family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers and acts of kindness during this difficult time as they appreciate so much all who have extended their sympathies to them through thought and deed. Arrangements are being cared for by Owens Livingston Mortuary - White Mountain Chapel in Show Low, Arizona.