William Gilbert Winkler

William Gilbert Winkler, 80, of Wynne, Arkansas, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 11, 2026. Born May 25, 1945, in Perryville, Missouri, Bill lived a life defined by faith, service, and love for others. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Bill’s greatest joy was his family and his faith in Christ. He was a faithful member of Wynne Baptist Church for over 40 years, where he served the Lord and encouraged others in their walk with Christ. Bill believed his purpose on earth was simple and clear—to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with anyone and everyone he met. Bill worked for 27 years at Halstead Industries, where he was known as a dedicated and hardworking employee. Beyond his career, he poured 25 years of his life into mentoring young people as a respected Scout Master with the Boy Scouts of America and as Lodge Advisor of the Hi’LO HA CHY’ A-LA Lodge 413 in the Order of the Arrow and was the second person ever to be inducted to the Lodge Hall of Fame. His leadership and example left a lasting impact on many lives. Bill was also an active member of Gideons International and was rarely seen without a stack—or even a box—of Bibles ready to give away. He faithfully distributed Bibles wherever he went and often gave them to people who were grieving, also purchasing Bibles in memory of their loved ones so that God’s Word could continue to reach others. Bill took the initiative to learn Spanish to broaden his ministry to the Hispanic community, and faithfully served in a Hispanic prison ministry, sharing the Gospel and bringing hope to justice-involved individuals. He believed deeply that God’s love and forgiveness were for everyone, and he never hesitated to bring the message of hope and salvation to those who needed it most. Bill was known for his warm hospitality and generosity. Many friends and family fondly remember the sourdough bread and homemade biscuits he loved to bake and share. For Bill, sharing food was simply another way of sharing love. Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Mary Helen; his children, Mandy (Christopher) Trickey, David (Melanie) Winkler, and Allen (Stacey) Winkler; his grandchildren, Anna Johnson, Owen Winkler, Braiden Trickey, and Brady Swaite; his great-grandchildren, Virginia Ann and Addilynn Piper. He is also survived by his brother Roger (Judy) Winkler, his sister Margie Goodwin, his brother Tom Winkler and brother-in-law Bobby Taylor. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Herman and Bernetta Juanita Winkler, and by his sister, Dorothy Taylor. Though his family and friends mourn his passing, they rejoice knowing Bill is now in the presence of the Savior he faithfully served. His legacy of faith, kindness, and unwavering dedication to sharing the Gospel will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gideons International at https://gideons.org/donate. Visitation will be held at Kernodle Funeral Home on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 10 AM until 12 PM. Funeral Services will follow at 12 PM with Rev. Matt Dunavant and Rev. Brad Branham officiating. Burial will be in Cogbill Cemetery. Kernodle Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. You may sign an online guestbook at www.kernodlefh.com.

Tributes

William Gilbert Winkler

May 25, 1945 - March 11, 2026