He was born on August 20, 1963 in Cleveland, to William and Fannie Mae Reeves Wilkes. He grew up and attended schools there graduating from John Adams High School in 1981. He continued his education after High School by attending the Nursing Academy of Ohio.

He worked in Cleveland as a nurse's aid at Woodstock Home for the Elderly, and in Idaho Falls as a cook at Brownstone's and a gas station attendant at Maverick Country Stores.

He was a member of the Baptist Church. His hobbies included fishing, camping, and spending time with family and friends.

Bryan was a person who was caring and devoted to his friends, and family. He was a happy, helful, and very loving guy.

He is survied by two sons Leo Wilkes of Idaho Falls, and Bryan Wilkes Jr. of Akron, Ohio; one Daughter, Kim Wilkes of Akron; one step-son Bryan (Stephanie) Tobias of Idaho Falls; 5 brothers, Joel Wilkes (Tasheena) of Idaho Falls, BIlly Wilkes (Lisa) of Akron, Kenneth Wilkes (Linda) of Cleveland, Lawrence Wilkes of Chicago, IL, and Gary Wilkes of Cleveland; 4 sisters, carolyn Jacobs (Alvin) of Cleveland, Sharon Smith (O.C.) of Akron, Annette Wilkes (Tonsi) of Chicago, IL, June Russell (fred of Chicago, IL; and 2 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his brothers Freddie Wilkes, Wade Wilkes, and Dave Wilkes, and by his sister Mary Alice.

Memorial Services were held at 5 p.m. January 27, 2007, at the Guesthouse Inn and SUites in Idaho Falls. Arrangements are under the direction of Coltrin Mortuary in Idaho Falls.