Obituary: Edwin ‘Slick’ Wiggins
Edwin ‘Slick’ Wiggins, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Bolivar, Tennessee, on June 27, 2026. Born on April 13, 1943, in Hardeman County, Tennessee, Edwin spent 83 years forging a life marked by hard work, love for family, and dedication to his community.
Edwin, affectionately known to many as “Slick,” grew up surrounded by a close-knit family with strong roots in Hardeman County. He was the cherished son of the late Charlie Austin Wiggins and Willie Alamenter Smith Wiggins, and one of several siblings whose bonds shaped and strengthened him through the years. Though he experienced the heartache of losing his brothers, Henderson, Neely, and Vernon Wiggins and his sisters, Althea Sipes, Charlene Morris, Bernice Vaughan, and Jettie Rose Knight, Edwin carried the love of his family with him always.
Slick was a true jack of all trades, known for his unwavering work ethic and reliability. He held several jobs in his lifetime, including working as an auto body repairman—a trade that showcased his skillful hands and problem-solving mind. His talents and leadership abilities led him to serve as a supervisor at Harman Paint Shop for eight years, where his guidance and fairness left a lasting impression on all who worked alongside him.
Outside of his career, Edwin’s life was filled with passions and simple joys. He loved to work, never shying away from a challenge, and his adventurous spirit drew him to travel, particularly to the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Farming and working his cattle brought him immense satisfaction, connecting him to the land he cherished. Edwin’s deep love for animals was evident in his special bond with his loyal dog, Tank, who was a constant companion in his later years.
Being surrounded by family meant everything to Slick. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Dottie Wiggins, whose partnership and love enriched his days. His daughter, Dana Rhea Knight (Matt) Bolivar, holds close the wisdom and laughter he shared, as does his brother, Donald Wiggins (Jerline), and his sister, Johnnie Wiggins.
Edwin’s legacy continues through his grandchildren—Lil’ Gary Wiggins, Wesley Jackson, Casey Tillmon, and John Tillmon—and his great-grandchildren, Alyssa Jackson, Maddie Jackson, Addie Tillmon, Alayna Tillmon, Matthew Wiggins, and Luke Wiggins. Each carries forward his example of perseverance and caring. Though he grieved the loss of his beloved son, Gary Edwin Wiggins, Slick found comfort in his family and faith.
A man of many interests, Edwin cherished quiet moments working puzzles with loved ones and was a proud member of Forrest Hill Pentecostal Church, where his presence and kindness will be missed by all.
Church services are Wed., July 1, 2026, at Forrest Hill Pentecostal Church with burial in the Wiggins Cemetery near Hornsby. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Bolivar were in charge of professional arrangements.
Edwin ‘Slick’ Wiggins leaves a powerful legacy of resilience, generosity, and enduring love. He will be deeply missed and remembered always by those whose lives he touched. Memorials in his name may be sent to Forrest Hill Pentecostal Church.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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