Local students mourn loss of teacher

D. Asmi – Mustangs Ahead

(LAKEWOOD RANCH) – Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) social studies Bernard Joseph Wilkes IV passed away on Dec. 29, 2024, at the age of 43.

He was born on May 14, 1984, in Youngstown, Ohio. He is survived by his mother Ruth Zimmer Wilkes Harshman and Michael Harshman.

Known for his kind heart, Wilkes taught social studies, geography, psychology, and financial literacy with dedication and an open heart to his students.

He made sure his students knew that he supported them.

“He was a father figure to us, and he cared about us like we were his own kids. He always saw my full potential and always looked out for us,” freshman Juliana McCarthy said.

“Words couldn’t describe just how good of a person he was,” she added.

Her words were echoed by other students who had him.

“He really understood his own students and was flexible with his work and everything. He was very understanding of us,” freshman Ceci Gatziolis said.

She added that he taught his students in different ways so they could better understand the material.

Jazmyn McPherson, freshman, said something similar.

“He was very special and was one of a kind. He was the best teacher, and he helped us prepare for his tests and learn the material as much as he could,” McPherson said.

“He gave the bad kids a chance,” freshman Savannah DeWulf said.

Maddie Buck, freshman, said, “He would always try to take the chance to get to know us as an individual.”

Freshman Marcelo Pizzarro said, “He was definitely funny, had a good personality, and always had a smile on his face when people mistreated him.”

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He was also well-loved by fellow LRHS staff members, who knew him well and recognized the impact he made on his students.

Greg Purpus was a teacher aide who got to know Wilkes.

“In just five months, he left a lasting impact on me. Initially, I found him a bit quirky and awkward, but as I got to know him, I saw his genuine care for his students.

"He tackled tough topics like drugs, alcohol, and personal choices, sharing his own experiences to teach valuable life lessons,” Purpus said.

“Mr. Wilkes had a big heart and an authentic spirit, making even the toughest days in the classroom feel manageable. He was a unique and fascinating individual—a gentle soul who was much more than just a teacher. If you knew him, you were fortunate; if not, you truly missed out,” he added.

There are resources to help students who are finding it hard to cope with a tragic loss.

A school psychologist, school social worker, and a private agency provide services to the school.
Students can meet alone or in small groups with the psychologist and/or social worker, or their counselor, according to School Psychologist Carol A. Landsberg.

“If the student's mental health needs are significant and outside the scope of what we can/should provide, out Student Services Department has created a list of vetted private therapists we can share with parents/guardians,” she said.

LRHS Assistant Principal Jeanne Galindo said a link is available to anyone who wishes to donate to the school in Wilkes’ memory.

“The family of Mr. Wilkes has asked that we set up a fund in his honor to enhance the teaching and learning in the Social Studies department that he was so proud to work with,” she said.