Russell D. Wilks sang gospel music throughout his life and loved to lead others in music at church. He died Jan. 10 at the age of 94.
Born in Henagar, Wilks graduated from Valley Head High School, Henagar, in 1937. He began singing in the 1930s and toured the nation with groups such as Stamps-Baxter Rhythmaires, Happy Hitters Quartet and The Noblemen.
He also worked as a construction superintendent with Sullivan, Long & Haggerty in Birmingham.
Wilks served as the music minister at Henagar Baptist Church and as the choir director at Sylvania Baptist Church before retiring in 2010.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Donnie. He is survived by his three children; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
(Neisha Fuson)
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