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Wilkey RC - Photo web.jpg

Of Shipston-on-Stour. Passed away peacefully on Saturday 27th December 2025, aged 76 years.

Very much loved and greatly missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

Bob's funeral service will be held at St. Edmund's Church, Shipston-on-Stour, on Wednesday 14th January 2026, 1:00 p.m. All are encouraged to arrive from 12:30 p.m. onwards to write a message and tie onto Bob's coffin in his memory.

Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Bob, are to be divided between ‘The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund’ and 'The John Radcliffe Cardiology Ward'. These may be left in the retiring collection or made via the 'Donate' button below where your generosity may be further enhanced with Gift Aid.

Funeral enquiries care of R. Locke & Son, Shipston on (01608 685 274).

Total collected to date: £1,222.50

We are proud to be RAF's oldest and most steadfast friend

We understand and support each and every member of the RAF Family, whenever they need us. We provide lifelong support to serving and ex-serving RAF personnel and their families.

We'll consider any request for assistance, however big or small, providing a tailor-made approach to each individual situation. From mobility aids and confidential counselling to financial grants and friendship, we offer a range of support tailored to the individual's needs.

We are proud of the RAF's history, and our place within it, and are privileged to have been able to record the memories of those who played a part in these moments in time. We are honoured to maintain both the RAF Memorial and the RAF Bomber Command Memorial for the nation, in perpetuity.

Registered Number 1081009

http://www.rafbf.org

Oxford Hospitals Charity helps to transform care - funding the best medical equipment, research, training and facilities for our patients and staff.

Although we aren't a huge charity we have a big impact - and that's because we keep things local and work very closely with our clinical colleagues to understand how we can really make a difference.

In fact, nearly every ward and department across all of our hospitals has felt the positive impact of donations, fundraising and gifts in Wills - all thanks to thoughtful and generous individuals who want to make a difference in their local community.

Donations also helped create the Cancer and Heart Centres in Oxford and the Brodey Cancer Centre at the Horton General, as well as the Oxford Children's Hospital.

We fund the very latest medical equipment, innovative research and specialist medical training. Donations also transform the hospital environment for our patients and dedicated staff - making wards and hospital spaces more welcoming and comfortable.

From the small things, like providing quality reclining chairs for cancer patients having lengthy chemotherapy, to larger projects, such as funding computerised surgical equipment to help our talented surgeons with the most complicated of operations, this is your local charity supporting your local hospitals.

With your vital support we can continue to transform the hospitals that care for you and your loved ones.

Registered Number 1175809

https://www.hospitalcharity.co.uk/

Church Service

14 January, 2026 13:00

St. Edmund's Church

St. Edmund's Church, Church Street, Shipston-on-Stour, CV36 4AP

Fellow RAF navigator, No 8 Squadron Shackleton and E-3D aviator, Joint Services sailor, but most important of all, family friend of over 45 years, it was an honour and pleasure to share every unforgettable experience with such a good, competent and thoroughly decent bloke as Bob. His loss is great and our thoughts are with Lewis, Simon and all members of the Wilkey family.

Mr Trevor Kirkin

Blue skies, Bob. Thanks for being a fantastic ‘Uncle’ in every way possible. My utmost respect and gratitude to you for your unstinting support to the Harrier Force, from the very day you joined during my time as OC 3(F) Squadron.

Mr Ashley Stevenson

In fondest remembrance of a Very special man and friend Robert. We will miss you Alyson & Roger

Ms & Mr Alyson & Roger Spence & Hancox

Just a great character and mentor with a brilliant sense of humour.

Mr Richard McMahon

Cash donations received at the Funeral Service.

Anonymous .

Sincere condolences to Lewis, Simon and family. Bob, or Uncle Bob as we knew him, was a hugely popular member of No 3 Fighter Squadron. He supported both those who served and our families, in particular, Uncle Bob played a rmuch valued and appreciated role during challenging operational deployments. He was by far the best navigator who ever served on a Harrier Squadron. Tertius Primus Erit

Mr Stuart Atha

It was a shame to lose such a lively uncle. A person full of interesting stories from a great lufe.

Mr Jeremy Sargent

'Uncle' Bob, thank you for your sage counsel and guidance on 3(F). It was very much appreciated! Prayers and RIP 'Uncle' Bob

Mr Andrew Cullen

It was a genuine pleasure to serve with Bob. He was a fine aviator and I'll always be grateful for his excellent advice in my early days. May he rest in peace.

Mr John Cairns

Bob was a consummate professional in every role he undertook, at 8 Sqn (North) he helped make TACEVALs bearable and he lit up every room he entered. Witty, intelligent can't praise him enough. He'll be greatly missed, so sorry I can't be at his funeral.

Mr Steve Pearson

Glad to have known and sung with Bob, briefly, at the Contemporary Choir Owen - fellow tenor

Mr Owen Vickery

It was an absolute pleasure to know you Rob, you will be missed terribly - you can get and sing some Sea Shanties. RIP Fellow choir member - Lesley

Ms Lesley Cashmore