Mr. Reginald Averi Gilkesson

Mr. Reginald “Averi” Gilkesson, 29, made his earthly departure on June 11, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Reggie “Averi” was born on July 20, 1993 in Aurora, Colorado to Reginald Marshall Gilkesson and Shelly Huett. He would later reside in Greensboro North Carolina, Maryland and Richmond Virginia before residing in Charlotte, NC until his final day. Reggie “Averi” was a well-mannered child who was full of life and enjoyed the company of family and friends. He was an avid reader from an early age and had a natural skill for working with computers and technology. Reggie was fearless and unafraid to try new experiences. He always wanted to make others proud with his good deeds. It was not uncommon for him to volunteer by assisting others with chores, tasks, and small projects. Reggie “Averi” later attended West Charlotte High School where he was a starter on both the football and basketball team. He also played as a starter for the local AAU Charlotte Nets Basketball Team. He later went on to graduate from Julius Chambers High School in Charlotte, NC (formerly known as Vance High School) in 2011. Immediately after graduating from high school, he attended Livingstone College, in Salisbury, NC. After a brief stint in college, he pursued his passion in Construction Engineering by completing his certification in Construction Engineering Management. He recently worked for Geo-Science Engineering, a construction company in Charlotte, NC. Reggie “Averi” began a courtship with Maiya Wright after a long friendship. They later became parents on November 21, 2017 to Inca Indigo Jade Gilkesson and later to Iiya Averi Jade Gilkesson born on May 1, 2019. He was a devoted father and caretaker to both of “his girls,” as he made sure he provided his unyielding love and care for his family. He planned to marry his longtime friend, Maiya and continue to raise their family together. He also expressed interest in pursuing a degree in social work, following the footsteps of his father. Averi loved and spent time with his grandparents in Richmond, VA, Gene and JoAnne Huett as well as his grandparents, Robert and Annette Gilkesson in Charlotte, NC. He was particularly bonded with his grandfather, the late Robert M. Gilkesson, affectionately known as “Old Grand-dad 100.” They often spent countless hours talking and laughing with one another. His grand-father preceded him in death on December 4, 2021. Reggie “Averi” was a loving father, son, grandson, nephew and friend. He accepted Jesus Christ as his savior in 2010, while visiting family in Peoria, Illinois. He was also baptized in Richmond, VA. He often spoke about his relationship with God, sharing that he walks and talks with God. He was a true gift from God and had a good heart for those he loved. Although his early life was short, his eternal life will be celebrated on June 28, 2023 and remembered forever. He enjoyed his final day on this earth by spending precious moments with his mother, Maiya, and “the girls” at The Taste of Charlotte. He will be truly missed by his family, loved ones, and friends. Reggie “Averi” leaves to cherish his precious memory his beloved family, his loving and devoted companion Maiya Wright of Charlotte, NC; two daughters, Inca and Iiya Gilkesson of Charlotte, NC; his Father, Reginald (Joy) Gilkesson of Charlotte, NC; his mother, Shelly A. Huett of Charlotte, NC; his brother, Jeramiah Campbell of Charlotte, NC; grandparents, Annette S. Gilkesson of Charlotte, NC, Gene and JoAnne Huett of Richmond, VA; three Aunts, Mia & Wendy Huett of Richmond, VA and Rochelle (Carlton) Smith of Charlotte, NC; Uncle, Rashaad Gilkesson of Maryland; Great Aunt, Florence Gilkesson of Peoria, IL; Great Uncles, James D. (Cynthia) Gilkesson of Peoria, IL and Welton (Sheila) Hall of Laurel, MD; Cousins, Elijah & Ezekial Huett of Richmond, VA, Eric (Stephanie) Gilkesson of Jonesboro, GA, James Gilkesson of Charlotte, NC, Parker Gilkesson of Peoria, IL, Synclaire Gilkesson of Alexandria, VA and Stevie Anderson of Charlotte, NC; and a host of extended family and friends. Funeral services will be held at East Stonewall AME Zion Church, located at 1729 Griers Grove Road Charlotte, NC 28216 on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. A Public viewing will be held from 10am-11am and services beginning promptly at 11am. The services will be officiated by Pastor Amy S. Ciceron of East Stonewall AME Zion Church. The memorial farewell service will immediately follow at Gethsemane Cemetery and Memorial Gardens at the conclusion of the service. Arrangements are entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home.

Tributes

Mr. Reginald Averi Gilkesson

June 20, 1993 - June 11, 2023