William Earl “Corky” Wakefield, 87, entered peacefully into rest June 15, 2024. A lifelong resident of Giles County, Tennessee, Corky was born the youngest of six sons on March 23, 1937 in Frankewing, to Gideon Cephus and Ileen McLin Wakefield.
Corky was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Kathleen Sharp Wakefield, and his brothers, Wayne Wakefield, Dr. Paul Wakefield, Glen Wakefield, and Rade Wakefield. He is survived by his two children, Sara Reese and her husband, Phil, of Pulaski, Tennessee, and Gid Wakefield and his wife, Leslie, of Montgomery, Alabama. Corky also leaves behind five grandchildren, Katie Reese, Sam Reese and wife Grace, John Wakefield, Laurie Wakefield, and William Wakefield, as well as one great-grandchild, Phillip Reese. Additionally, he is survived by his brother, Carl Wakefield, along with several nieces and nephews.
A graduate of Beech Hill High School, Corky’s life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and service. His professional journey began with First National Bank in Pulaski, Sharp Motor Company, and owner of Wakefield Oil, a Gulf Oil distributor. He then was elected to the position of Giles County Executive and served in that capacity for twenty years. Additionally, Corky honorably served his country with the Tennessee Air National Guard. His commitment to local banking was evident through his long standing service on the Board of Directors of the Bank of Frankewing, continuing as an Emeritus Board member until his passing.
He was a long time member of the Rotary Club and was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow. He also served for many years as Ringmaster of the Pulaski Rotary Club’s Red Carpet Show of the South, Tennessee Walking horse show for many years. Additionally, he was a supporter of the Boy Scouts and was honored with the Silver Beaver Award and Giles County’s Good Neighbor Award. He was a fifty year member of Pulaski Masonic Lodge #101 F. & A. M. He served on the South Central Tennessee Development Board, Hillside Hospital Board, and the Duck River Development Board. Corky was a longtime member of Pulaski First United Methodist Church.
Corky’s life was richly woven with love for his family, his steadfast faith, and a deep dedication to his community. His legacy is marked by his integrity, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment to those he served and loved.
Visitation will be held at First United Methodist Church in Pulaski beginning at 12pm on Tuesday, June 18th, with a memorial service to follow at 3pm. Burial will take place in Maplewood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pulaski First United Methodist Church, 200 West Jefferson Street, Pulaski, TN 38478, or the Giles County Public Library, 122 South Second Street, Pulaski, TN 38478.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who have expressed their condolences and support during this time.
Arrangements are under the care of Bennett-May & Pierce Funeral Home and Crematory.
