Palmetto High athletic director Bryan Wilkes passes at 63
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 9:04 AM
Last updated Aug 15, 2026
Bryan Wilkes, the athletic director at Palmetto High School, passed away on August 11 at the age of 63. A former Marine, he dedicated two decades to the school, founding its wrestling program and inspired countless athletes and students. Principal Monica DeLesline stated, 'His legacy will live on through the students, athletes, coaches, and colleagues he inspired.' Wilkes was recognized with a 'Lifetime Service to Wrestling' award in 2022. A private military service will be held at Bushnell National Cemetery, and contributions can be made in his memory to Palmetto High School Athletics.
- •Bryan Wilkes was Palmetto High's athletic director for over 15 years.
- •He founded the wrestling program and led it to five county championships.
- •Wilkes served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1982 to 1986.
- •He was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2022.
- •A private military service will honor his life later this month.
- 9:04 AMYahoo Sports — Beloved Palmetto High athletic director Bryan Wilkes, 63, passes
"A former Marine, Wilkes spent two decades at Palmetto High, founding the wrestling program at the school and serving as its athletic director.
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