Kanya O Wilkes

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kanya Onedia Wilkes on July 8, 2024. Kanya was born in Detroit on September 16, 1978, and grew up in a loving family of aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was Anthony Wilkes and Georgette Helbling's beloved daughter and the cherished mother of Shakyra, Lashe, Anthony, Adrianne, and Alena.

As a child, Kanya was a sweet and loving girl who shared a special relationship with her father, Anthony. She also shared a deep bond with her Uncles Larry, Eric, and Lawrence throughout her life. Kanya never failed to call her Aunt Margaret to share her plans and dreams. Auntie Margaret was her second mother, confidant, and friend. Edward Helbling, her stepfather, was a vital source of love and support. He never stopped believing in her. Kanya's favorite pastimes included a love of music, roller skating, and swimming. Kanya found great joy in being near any body of water. She also had a unique fashion sense that was a part of her creativity and self-expression. Her strong self-confidence was admired by family and friends, who could always count on Kanya to tell it like it was. She touched the lives of many with her kindness, generosity, and love of family. She constantly encouraged her children to be the best versions of themselves. She found joy in their accomplishments and all their endeavors. Kanya was also a fierce protector of her brothers Amon and Edward whenever she perceived they were unjustly treated. Kanya shared a strong spiritual connection with her mother, Georgette, and always knew she could depend on her mom. Hearing Kanya say, "I love you, Mommy," holds a special place in Georgette's heart and replays in her mind as Kanya was the only one of her three children to call her "Mommy."

Kanya is survived by her parents, siblings, children, and grandchildren. Her grandparents, George and Margarette Arnold and Robert and Clarabelle Wilkes, and Aunts Gertrude, Roxy, and Belvie, preceded her. Also, her Uncles Edward and Craig Arnold, Calvin, Ernest, and Alvin of the Wilkes family, as well as her youngest sister Alena, preceded her.

Family and friends are invited to gather Thursday, July 18, 2024, from 4 - 6 p.m. at the Galzerano Funeral Home, 3500 Bristol – Oxford Valley Road, Levittown, PA 19057. Interment will follow at St Mark Cemetery.  Interment is private under the direction of Galzerano Funeral Home.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a charity of your choice in Kanya's memory. All who knew and loved Kanya will deeply miss her warmth, love, and vibrant spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion.