Patricia “Pat” Runnels Wilkes
Pat Wilkes was born June 27, 1956 in Starkville and died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on October 31, 2021. She was the fifth child of William Ray and Mary Manglass Runnels. Pat lived most of her life in Starkville and was a 1974 graduate of Starkville High School.
Retired from Mississippi State University’s College of Arts and Sciences, and from the Laird Clinic of Family Medicine, Pat spent the last years of her life simply being “Gamma” to her beloved grandchildren.
Pat is preceded in death by her parents, and by her brother, Tom Runnels. She is survived by her children, Sam (Lindsey) Wilkes and Scott Wilkes (Dawn Gwathney); her grandchildren Mary Reagan, Toland and Tinley Wilkes, and Ethan Clark; and her siblings Liz (Peter) Rook, Kenny (Theresa) Runnels, Jim (Aimee) Runnels, and Barbara (Eddie) Coats. Pat is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
At Pat’s request, there will be no service. Her family will celebrate her life together with much laughter and many shared stories. For those wishing to do so, donations can be made to the Oktibbeha County Humane Society, or to the charity of your choice.
