Dr. Truitt Palmer Wilks Jr., affectionately known as “Tip,” triumphantly returned to our Heavenly Father and was joyfully reunited with his parents on October 19, 2025, at the age of 65.
Born in Hazlehurst on May 16, 1960, Tip spent his childhood in Jackson, engaging in memorable shenanigans and adventures with lifelong friends. He first attended Woodland Hills Baptist Academy, then transferred to Callaway High School, where he met the love of his life, Cindy Alvis. After graduating in 1978, he attended the University of Mississippi, earning degrees in chemistry and English, before going on to receive his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry in 1986. That same year, he married Cindy. Following in his father's footsteps, he practiced dentistry in Madison for nearly 40 years and was determined to continue faithfully caring for his patients amidst his courageous battle with cancer.
“Dr. Tip” was the kind of man who would listen to you intently no matter how trivial or serious the conversation and always find a way to make you smile and more than likely laugh. Friends remember him for his quick wit, love of rock and roll, and engaging (and often repeated) storytelling. While he had some endearing quirks such as being overly prepared and packed and keeping a perpetually slow clock, he is remembered fondly for his kindness, Christ-like forgiveness, and never letting you down. Wherever he went, his well-worn Bible went with him. Above all, his greatest joy was found in family: his beloved and selfless wife of 39 years, Cindy; his children, Catherine and Alex, the light of his eyes; and his treasured grandchildren, Lyria and Gabriel, who lovingly called him “Rabbit.”
He was preceded in death by his parents, Peggy Taylor Wilks and Truitt Palmer Wilks. He is survived by his wife, Cindy Alvis Wilks; daughter, Catherine Ann Wilks-Powell (Joshua); son, Alexander Palmer Wilks (Ally Fraser); sister, Lou Ann Wilks Flatgard (Spence); aunt, Cecile Taylor Fife, and her son, Tres Fife (Savannah); niece, Andie Wilks Flatgard; and his beloved grandchildren, Lyria Wilks Powell and Gabriel Wilks Powell. He is also survived by many beloved cousins, nephews, nieces, and in-laws.
Visitation will be held 9:30 to 11:15 a.m. on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, followed by a memorial service at 11:30 a.m. Graveside service will follow at Parkway Memorial Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Children’s of Mississippi in honor of his enduring love for his children and grandchildren.
