Wylie Oakes Wilkinson, 17, of Sissonville, passed away on November 19, 2025.

Wylie was the son of Jamison Wilkinson and Jamie Wilkinson. A junior at Sissonville High School, he excelled academically and consistently ranked at the top of his class. Although schoolwork often came easily to him, Wylie never settled for "good enough." He pushed himself relentlessly, often staying up until the early morning hours to study or work on projects.

Wylie played soccer for Sissonville High School, and while he enjoyed the game, his true passion was weightlifting. He wore his "chubby kid" past like a badge of honor and found peace, purpose, and confidence in the discipline of training. The gym became the place where he learned that hard work could change his life, and it did.

His hobbies also included fishing, snowboarding and traveling. Wylie could fish for hours on end and would turn his nose up at anyone who considered using live bait. He loved snowboarding  and never chose the singles line; he always insisted on riding the lift together. His favorite place was New York City, where he dreamed of attending college so long as Mason and Lilly were going, too.

Wylie's lifelong best friend was his sister, Lilly. They spent countless late nights in deep political and philosophical conversations, while laughing and making fun of the absurdities of the world. Even when they disagreed, they listened to and respected each other without question. Wylie often kept his opinions guarded around others, but he admired Lilly's fearless conviction and the way she would go ten toes in for what she believed.
Beyond his family, Wylie cherished his friends above all else. Whether they were lifting at the gym, hanging out at the high school, or enjoying a night together when someone's parents happened to be out of town, their bond brought him immeasurable happiness. They carried one another through burdens and celebrated life with laughter, friendships that shaped him deeply and filled his days with joy.

Wylie was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Trilla Wilkinson, and his maternal grandfather, Billy Ratliff. He is survived by his sister, Lilly; his father, Jamison Wilkinson; his mother, Jamie Wilkinson; his grandfather, John Wilkinson; his wife, Sue; his grandmother, Phyllis Ratliff; and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A service to celebrate Wylie's life will be held on Tuesday, November 25, at Sissonville High School. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with services beginning at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of a traditional visitor book, memorial books will be available for guests to sign and leave messages for Wylie and his family.