Born at Chewalla, McNairy County, Tennessee. Married Alpha B. Moore November 5, 1896. They had three children. Received LL.B. from National University in Washington, D.C. in 1906.

Employed as lawyer in the office of comptroller of the Treasury 1906 to 1910. Promoted to Chief Clerk in the Treasury Department 1910 to 1917. He assisted in reorganization of the Treasury Department and directed the funding of World War I.

Appointed Director of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and served December 10, 1917, to March 31, 1922. President Harding issued an executive order March 31, 1922, summarily removing Wilmeth from office along with 28 other officials of the BEP. A later executive order February 14, 1923, restored 17 to their former positions. Worked as national secretary of Junior Order of American Mechanics 1923 to 1951. He was editor of the Junior American.

bio: WWWA-3; BEP Website (photo)