Barry Jay Wilkes

BARRY JAY “BISTRO” WILKES, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, at the age of 57. He was born on Thursday, July 30, 1968, in Baltimore, Maryland, and remained a proud native of the city throughout his life. Barry was the son of the late Howard M. Wilkes Sr. and Barbara Wilkes. He was also the grandson of Alice Colbert (maternal) and John Wilkes, Sr (paternal). Barry was a bright, shining light to all who knew him. Known for his loving nature and famously big heart, he approached life with a deep spirituality that inspired those around him. Barry would give the coat off his back to a stranger in need even on a cold winter day. He found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. Quintessentially among them was his passion for cooking, where he generously shared his culinary talents with family and friends—a passion that earned him his beloved nickname, “Bistro. "A proud graduate of St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, MD (Class of 1986), Barry pursued his initial dream at culinary school, honing his skills in various cuisines. He spent a decade cooking for various restaurants, leaving his mark on the local culinary world. Barry was our family culinary expert we turned to whenever there was a question about cooking. Regardless of the time of day or night, Barry relished sharing his expertise of cooking with others. His career transitioned into the telecommunications industry where he dedicated over 25 years working as a technician for both Direct TV and AT&T. Barry spent ten of those years in a management role applying both his technical and leadership experience instructing other technicians in the performance of their duties. Other technicians frequently came to Barry for his in-depth knowledge of cable communications. His skills were acknowledged and respected among his peers and superiors. A true sports enthusiast, Barry was an ardent and lifelong fan of the Baltimore Ravens, never missing an opportunity to cheer on his team. Barry’s greatest pride was his family. A true family man, he cherished his loved ones above all else, often going out of his way to help anyone in need. His faith was a cornerstone of his life; he was deeply spiritual and had a profound love for God. Known for being a jokester, Barry loved to laugh and brought a bright, shining light to every soul he encountered. Service to others was the hallmark of Barry’s life. He was more than just a friend or associate; he was a source of immense joy and purpose, dedicating himself to the meaningful endeavor of mentoring young men and children. To countless young lives he encountered, he served as a steadfast, guiding father figure. Among those he nurtured and deeply impacted were Shameka, Shantae, Jada, and Ezrah, to name just a few of the many children he proudly considered his own. His unwavering presence, wisdom, and genuine care were instrumental in shaping their character and future. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Shantia Wilkes; and his cherished granddaughter, Darrayelle Barnes; they both brought immeasurable joy to his life. He also leaves behind his loving family: two sisters, Patricia Clements and Stacey Wilkes; brother, Howard M. Wilkes Jr.; brother-in-law, Thomas Smith; two nephews, Elijah West and Ezrah West; niece, Shantrese Blume; and a host of cousins, friends and colleagues. His love, laughter, and spiritual light will be profoundly missed, but his memory and spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends. Life will never be the same without his infectious laughter and unwavering kindness. Rest well in your eternal sleep Barry Jay “Bistro” Wilkes. Your spirit will remain deep in the hearts of all who knew you ... Forever!

Tributes

Barry Jay Wilkes

July 30, 1968 - January 12, 2026