Services scheduled for David Wilkerson

TYLER (KYTX) - Services have been set for 79-year-old David Wilkerson. They will be held Monday at 3:00 p.m. at Rose Heights Church in Tyler. The public is invited to attend but seating is limited.



TYLER (KYTX) - Pastor with ties around the world is being remembered for his work in East Texas.

79-year-old David Wilkerson died Wednesday in a car accident between Jacksonville and Frankston.

Wilkerson was traveling with his wife, Gwen, when that accident happened.

His death came as a shock to the Christian community, and many say his legacy far outreaches his life.

Pastor James Dill started reading "The Vision and Beyond" by David Wilkerson several weeks ago.

Dill knew Wilkerson through ministering in East Texas.

"When he saw a true ministry raising up, he was one of the first to rally to help that ministry," says Dill.

The 79-year-old was a religious spearhead in East Texas, best-selling author, his outreach spanned denominations, and the globe.

"He would preach the messages that would just grip people's hearts and bring them to the alter for repentance,"says Dill.

Dill says when Wilkerson spoke, people listened.

"He certainly had a following and impact on US Christianity all the way around," says David Rooker, a manager at The Scroll Christian Book Store in Tyler.

Rooker had a chance to meet Wilkerson.

"I had seen him from afar with his crusades and things he'd done. Kind of like meeting a celebrity," says Rooker.

Wilkerson and his wife were driving on Highway 175 when they were involved in an accident with an 18 wheeler Wednesday.

Most of the impact was on the driver's side of the vehicle.

The news of his death traveled quickly.

A modern day prophet to many, who left a lasting impression on Christians around the world.

"He left a legacy that is awesome in every way," says Dill.

And maybe one last reminder for Dill to turn the page, and continue learning about his faith.

Upon last report, Gwen Wilkerson is at ETMC in Tyler in fair condition.

We still don't know what caused that accident.