Gayle Derben Wilkerson

1939-2024

Betty Gayle Derben Wilkerson, 84, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Arbor Lake Nursing Home in Auburn, AL on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.. She was born on August 1, 1939 in Chattanooga TN to the late Paul Madden and Minnie Mae Camp Derben.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Frank Wilkerson, her brother, William Paul Derben, and her sister, Emma Jo Derben.

She is survived by daughters Lisa Wilkerson Ellen (Tim) and Lynette Wilkerson Strickland (David), grandchildren Ragan Ellen Herdener (Chris), Spencer Ellen, Taylor Ellen Felker (Andy), Wilson Strickland (Kayla), Emma Strickland Bulso (Nick), Peter Strickland (Paige), Oliver Strickland (Summer), John David Strickland, Cecilia Strickland, Henry Strickland and Oscar Strickland, great grandchildren Mary Larson Herdener, Margaret Herdener, Augustine Bulso, Maximilian Bulso, Albert Bulso, Cyril Bulso, Salem Strickland, Jade Strickland, special sister-in-law, Gloria Derben and many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews.

Gayle worked for many years with students at Auburn University and ultimately retired from there. Gayle and Frank spent many a day at Auburn athletic events showing their loyalty, as well. She enjoyed working with the students very much, but especially cherished her time with family, cooking and loving them. She will be greatly missed by many.

Visitation will be held on August 1, 2024 (what would have been her 85th birthday) from 10:00 until 11:00 am in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home with Pastor Cade Farris officiating. Interment will follow at Garden Hills Cemetery.

The family would also like to thank the staff of Arbor Lake for their care during her residence there.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.