Al Wilkes

Albert "Al" Wilkes, 76, of Kingsport was called home on Sunday morning, December 11, 2016 at Johnson City Medical Center. He was a lifelong resident of Kingsport; he was born on March 11, 1940 to the late Albert and Kayte Wilkes. Al was a man of faith and compassion, a tennis pro, and a singer extraordinaire. During his high school and college days, he played basketball and tennis. At East Tennessee State University he played varsity tennis for 4 years. Following graduation he had a teaching/coaching career at Dobyns-Bennett High School. Here, he coached the Jr. Varsity Basketball teams and reinstated a boys and girls tennis program. He owned Match Point Tennis Shop for many years and conducted clinics and tournaments at Eastman and around the region for juniors and adults. Always with a song in his heart, Al started out with the Monzas, The Reflections, Elvis Impersonations, D.J. Shows, and Karaoke. Music was in his soul. Hobbies included raising show pigeons, researching family history, music history and the city's history. He was preceded in death by his mother and father. Albert is survived by his sister, Carolyn Wilkes Stern of Hollywood, FL; along with several cousins. Appreciation is expressed to Johnson City Medical Center for their care and concern. Visitation will be Monday, December 19, 2016 at First Baptist Church, 200 West Church Circle, Kingsport, from 12 pm to 2 pm. A funeral service will be held at 2 pm with Dr. Marvin Cameron officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Marty Byrd, Jim Lane, Jerry McIntosh, Phil Mullins, Jack Ferrell and Charles Aesque. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dobyns-Bennett Tennis Program, First Baptist Church or a charity of your choice. Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport is serving the Wilkes family.