IL SR1373

Illinois Senate mourns the death of John Conrad Wilkey, who passed away on December 6, 2022.

Wilkey was born November 6, 1935, in Quincy and earned degrees from Illinois College, Garrett Biblical Institute, and University of Dubuque Theological Seminary.

Wilkey served as an ordained Methodist minister for nearly 70 years, pastoring churches in multiple Illinois communities and teaching religion courses at three colleges.

Wilkey was an accomplished bluegrass musician who played mandolin and guitar, performing in a folk band called The Prairie Ramblers in the 1960s and later in concerts with his wife Stephanie.

Wilkey is survived by his wife Stephanie, five children, seventeen grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and extended family members.