The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has been described as the “drum major ” in this nation’s march for justice.
For many years, Lima was privileged to have had a man in our midst who continued to “beat the drum” for the least in our community. That man is Elder Jimmy Wilkerson.
For many years “Elder Jimmy” worked tirelessly for the poor, the homeless, our young people, and those held down by poverty and racial inequality. He spoke with power. His ability to quote Scripture and to encourage others was phenomenal. He was a man of humility.
When Lima was trying to count the actual number of individuals who were homeless, he went to abandoned buildings where the homeless slept, and gave them sleeping bags for warmth. He sparked the formation of a nonprofit called “Without Walls,” which provided a home for individuals who were homeless and recovering from the ravages of chemical dependency.
About two years ago, Elder Jimmy suffered a tragic medical disability. He is now being cared for at Lima Manor. It is heartbreaking to see a man who was so full of energy now so weakened and limited. But I firmly believe that Elder Jimmy’s life continues for a purpose.
Even though it is painful, I would challenge friends of Jimmy to visit him. He must not be forgotten. My paying a visit to him recently compelled me to compose and publish this letter. Hopefully, this letter will challenge those who continue in good health, to pick up the drumsticks that Martin and Jimmy used so well, and continue to lead the march for freedom and justice in Lima.
— Mike Vollmar, Lima
