
Elijah James Wilkison, 21, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by love, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.
Elijah was born on June 24, 2003, in Marietta, GA, and grew up as one of sixteen children in a big, beautiful, blended family. He brought unbridled joy and laughter to every moment, and his presence was a gift to all who knew him.
Elijah adored Taylor Swift—as long as it was turned up loud and accompanied by one of his siblings performing for him. He found joy in vocalizing, too—whether through laughter or telling his mom how much he loved her. He reveled in humor and thrived in the heart of every conversation, earning a reputation as the most trusted listener and keeper of secrets. From babies placed in his arms to siblings sitting by his side, Elijah had a way of soothing even the heaviest heart. His gentle and joyful aura, paired with his radiant smile, could lift the spirits of anyone who met him. He was a beacon of light, a constant reminder of the transformative power of love and connection.
It was one of the greatest honors of his family’s life to have Elijah as their son, brother, uncle, and grandson. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and compassion.
Elijah’s light will live on through his mom, Angela Sendmeyer; siblings: brothers, Michael Garrison, Tyler Stewart, Christopher Wilkison, Carlos Stewart, Adam Wilkison (Emily Reiner), Alfredo Stewart, Jaden Sendmeyer, and Kaleb Sendmeyer; sisters, Alex Wilkison (Lillian Pineda), Taylor (Zachariah) Armstrong, Rickelle Wilkison, Hannah (Christian) Willis, Bethany Stewart, and Cynzier Sendmeyer; along with his beloved nephews, Rylen Wilkison, Kendrell Rust Sendmeyer, and Tatum Armstrong; grandparents Marlene Collins, Ralph and Mary Wilkison, and Barbara O’Brian; and countless others who loved him dearly.
Elijah was greeted in heaven by his papals: Harold Jones and Gene O’Brian; his Aunt Jackie Stewart; and his sister, Tiffany Rust McKinnon.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to all of Elijah’s nurses, educators, and providers, who loved him as deeply as we did. Your unwavering dedication, compassion, and support have been instrumental in our lives, and we are forever grateful for the love you showed Elijah—and all of us.
Elijah’s family is taking time to grieve privately but will hold a Celebration of Life for his birthday. More information will be shared closer to the date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Jacob Ball Wish Foundation | jacobswish.org | P.O. Box 2057, Evansville, IN 47728 | 812.431.4909
“So hold your head high, and don’t be afraid, to march to the front of your own parade.
If you’re still my small babe, or you’re all the way grown, my promise to you Is you’re never alone.
You are my angel, my darling, my star — and my love will find you, Wherever you are.”
(Nancy Tillman – ‘Wherever you are my love will find you’)
Elysa Svestka-Stansberry says
Words can not express how sad I feel for you. I remember meeting him. He was blessed with a wonderful mom and family. Knows he’s at peace now and up running around in heaven.