Tribute from Renae Smith‑Kelly, niece of Elder Wilkins, affectionately called Uncle Monty
Tribute from Renae Smith‑Kelly, niece of Elder Wilkins, affectionately called Uncle Monty
Today we gather not in mourning, but in celebration of a remarkable life. My uncle, Elder Wilkins - our beloved Uncle Monty, was a man of quiet strength. I never once heard him raise his voice, nor did he ever need to. His presence spoke for itself.
In every visit to Jamaica, in every phone call, he pointed us to Christ. His faith was unshakable. He trusted God so completely that it made you reflect on your own walk with Him. No matter the challenge, he never wavered, he simply believed that God would work it out according to His will.
I will always remember his sermon at Dover SDA in Portland. He spoke of Stephen, who trusted God even in his final hour, and how that faith planted a seed in Saul’s heart. Uncle reminded us that day to be careful how we face challenges, because the world is watching, our children are watching, and how we represent Christ leaves a lasting mark.
My husband Donovan and I admired the way Uncle and Aunty cared for each other. Their devotion is something we aspire to. His dedication as a father was just as evident - his three daughters stand as living testimonies of his faith and leadership in the home.
My only regret is that distance kept me from spending more time with him. His presence will be deeply missed. But our resolve is clear: we must make it to heaven, because that is where all my favorite people will be.
From the Kelly Klan - Donovan, Renae, Alexis, and Danae - we say: this is not goodbye. It is simply, “See you in eternity. Rest well uncle. You have stayed the course, you have won the race and your crown awaits.
Dear Nadia, I am Mr. Wilkins's co- worker and Bible study student. During the pandemic, I mentioned to him that I am reading the Bible but not understanding or retaining what I read. In April of 2022, he offered to start Bible study with me, once a week for about half an hour to an hour. He made it so easy to understand and appreciate. I often came up with the questions "from the left field" ... he had answers "from the right field". Mr. Wilkins has prayed for myself, numerous family members, my students, and even strangers. In my eyes, he was God's faithful servant. I know that he is on the express path to Heaven to be with our Loving Heavenly Father (as he often prayed). I do miss him and our Bible study sessions dearly but I know he is in a better place. Mr. Wilkins taught me how to be a better Christian, how to learn what the Bible teaches and how to have unshakable faith. I will never forget his fearless faith ... "Everything is in God's hands Mrs. Ramlall" or "God is still in control". These are words that get me through everything and I hope they will bring your family some degree of comfort too.
Please give your mom a humungous, tight hug for me and let her know that you are all in my prayers and have been for a while. Thank you for sharing your dad/grandfather/husband with me, once a week for about half an hour to an hour, for the past 4 years ... It has changed my life. God bless you all. Take care and please let me know if there is ever anything I can do for you.
Best,
Mrs. M. Ramlall
I am so incredibly sorry for all of loss. I will certainly get in touch with Mrs. Wilkins to send my condolences. Thank you for getting in touch and letting me know. Your Dad was a great person whom I remember well. Also, my Dad had a lot of respect for him as an instructor and person at Anson Community College.
My best wishes for you all and again, sorry for your loss.
Sincerest regards,
Gerald Keyzer