Mr. Elmer Wayne Wilkins, 77, of Hartwell, formerly of Gretna, LA, passed away Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at Elbert Memorial Hospital in Elberton.

Born on August 13, 1945 in Atlanta, GA, he was the son of the late Elmer Leo Wilkins and Doris Hazel King Wilkins. Mr. Wilkins was a retired Sea Captain for the Merchant Marines, and a veteran of the US Coast Guard. He was also of the Methodist faith and a "lover of life."

He is survived by son: Sanford W. Wilkins of Jacksonville, FL; daughter: Shannon Price (Richard) of Loganville, GA; brother: Steven Wilkins (Jennifer) of Lavonia; two sisters: Wendy Wilkins Garner (Don) and Virginia Wilkins Schulingkamp, all of Hartwell; and five grandchildren: Colby & Steven Wilkins, and Alex, Alayna, and Ashlyn Price.  He is also survived by several nieces & nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends Sunday afternoon from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell.  Other times the family will be at their respective homes.

A Celebration of Mr. Wayne Wilkins life will be held on Sunday, October 30, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell with Rev. Winfred Pitts officiating. It was Mr. Wilkins wishes to be cremated following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 105 West Park Dr, Ste. C, Athens, GA 30606.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.