Mary Jane Wilkens

Mary Jane Wilkens, 82 of Indianapolis passed away on February 10, 2024. Mary Jane was born to Claude C. & Margaret (Overby) Kirby in Fort Bragg, NC on July 26, 1941. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her spirit of kindness and generosity will forever illuminate our lives.

Mary was a social butterfly from a young age. Her warmth and genuine interest in others made her a beloved figure in her community. Mary never met a stranger—she had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued.

Throughout her life, Mary’s concern for others was unparalleled. She was the embodiment of selflessness, always putting the needs of others before her own. Whether it was baking her signature recipes for her many awards or organizing meals for families in need, Mary’s acts of kindness were boundless.

Mary’s commitment to service extended beyond her community involvement. For years, she served as a volunteer firefighter, fearlessly rushing into danger to protect her neighbors and strangers alike, including the others at the station begging for her culinary creations. Her bravery and dedication earned her the admiration and respect of all who knew her. She was so dedicated to her service to the community; she studied and became an advanced EMT at the same fire department.

Despite her busy schedule, Mary’s family was always her top priority. She was a devoted wife to Robert Wilkens, her loving husband of 63 years, and a nurturing mother to 5 children. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the joy of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

In addition to her compassionate nature, Mary was also a talented baker. Her kitchen was always filled with the delicious aroma of freshly baked goods, especially her signature rolls, and she took great pride in her culinary creations. Mary’s baking prowess earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout the years, but her greatest satisfaction came from sharing her treats with others.

Mary’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who know her, but her legacy of love, kindness, and service will continue to inspire us for generations to come. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and community.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, her son Timothy Wilkens, and her sister and brother-in-law Claudia (John) Wheeler.

Mary is survived by her husband, her children; Theresa Wilkens, Janice (Matthew) Cope, Robert (Annette) Wilkens, Jr., Jennifer (Dwight) Carr, her brother Thomas Michael Kirby , her grandchildren Ashley (Jimmy) Clark, Zachary Wilkens, Kaitlyn (James) Burgess, Annabella Cope, Jacob Bowden, Amelia Cope and her great grandchild Jayde Burgess.

A visitation will be held Thursday February 15, 2024, at Wilson St. Pierre – Franklin Township, 5950 E. Thompson Road, Indianapolis from 4pm to 7pm. A funeral mass will be held Friday February 16, 2024, at Nativity Catholic Church, 7225 Southeastern Ave, Indianapolis, at 11am with a small gathering 1 hour prior in the narthex. A burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1999, Memphis, TN 38101 or by clicking the link on our website.

You are invited to read Mary Jane’s obituary at www.stpierrefamilyfuneral.com, where you may sign the guest book and leave a personal message for the family.

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Mary Jane Wilkens, please visit our Tribute Store.