Fannie Mae West-Wilkerson was born March 2, 1916 in Forest City, AK to the late Andrew and Hattie Whitley. She was known by most as “Granny.” Both of her parents, husband, two daughters (Hazel and Niecy Mae), three sons (Neclay, Jack and June) and five siblings all preceded her in death.
She was educated in her hometown of Forest City, AK. “Granny” and her children moved to St. Louis, where she united in holy matrimony to Robert Wilkerson.
“Granny” was a beautician for many years. Delaney Watkins was her number one customer and they later became best friends. “Granny” owned a resale shop. She would let homeless people into her shop to “clean up” and would give them clothes to wear. She loved helping people and was full of life, joy, laughter. “Granny” loved to be independent and was still able to get around on her own at the age of 91.
“Granny” was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to all. She always shared her love, guidance and wisdom with her family, who were always around her. She was a very devoted member of her church.
She departed from this earth to be in a better place on Saturday, May 10, 2008 at approximately 11 a.m. at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. She leaves to cherish her loving memories two daughters, Imogene Gray and Merline Hughes of St. Louis; 20 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family, children, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.