Pansy Wilkins

Pansy Charlotte Dillard Wilkins, 89, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026. She was born May 24, 1936, in West Jefferson, North Carolina, to Ned and Virginia Dillard.

Raised in West Jefferson, she learned resilience early in life when her mother was diagnosed with cancer. As a young woman, she helped care for her mother and her two sisters while completing high school, demonstrating the strength and devotion that would define her life. After graduation, she attended nursing school in Danville, Virginia, earning her Registered Nurse degree. It was there she formed lifelong friendships and met her husband, Charles Dewey Wilkins Following graduation, she began her 30-year career at Danville Memorial Hospital, where she served with dedication and compassion while raising her three daughters. Through hard work and leadership, she rose to the position of head nurse of a medical-surgical unit. Nursing was not only her profession, but her calling. Later in life, she lovingly helped raise her grandson and became actively involved in his life — attending his sporting events, supporting his Boy Scouts troop, and volunteering at his school. Her family was always her greatest priority and pride. In her final years, she lived in Florida surrounded by her three daughters. She is survived by her three daughters, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and two sisters. The family is grateful for the compassionate care provided in her final days. She will be remembered for her strength, devotion to family, and lifelong commitment to caring for others.

A graveside service will be held Saturday February 28, 2026 2:00 PM at Highland Burial Park.