Richard Edward Wilson Sr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Edward Wilson Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Richard left this world peacefully on December 17, 2024, at the age of 77 surrounded by his loved ones. His warmth, wisdom, and enduring spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Born on February 2, 1947 in Estill, South Carolina, to the late Almay Wilson Sr. and Daisy Bell Wright-Wilson. Richard grew up in the close-knit community of Estill. There he met the love of his life Minnie Lou Davis, and their lifelong friendship blossomed into a marriage in 1965. The couple began their journey together moving to Newport News, Virginia with their firstborn before settling in Stamford, Connecticut in 1966, where they raised their four beloved children and built a life filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. Richard was a dedicated professional whose career spanned over 40 years with Clairol, Bristol Myers, and Procter & Gamble. As a master mechanic, his work ethic and skill were unparalleled, earning him the admiration of colleagues and friends. Upon retirement, he poured his boundless energy and devotion into his family, his faith, and his passions. A pillar of his community Richard served as a trustee at Bethel AME Church where his faith shone brightly. Richard found joy and purpose in many pursuits. A lifelong lover of music, he loved singing with the Men’s Choir and The Sons of Allen at Bethel AME Church, a passion he was honored to fulfill one final time shortly before his passing. Beyond his musical talents, Richard embraced a variety of hobbies that brought him and others happiness. For many years he bowled competitively as part of the Clairol Bowling League, enjoying camaraderie and friendly competition. At home he cultivated an extraordinary garden, showcasing a green thumb that could nurture anything from vibrant flowers to bountiful fruits and vegetables. His generous spirit shone brightly as he freely shared his harvest with friends, neighbors, and family. Richard’s warm personality and zest for life extended to his love of grilling and hosting gatherings where he created cherished memories with loved ones. He touched countless lives with his kindness and in return he was deeply blessed to hear heartfelt tributes from those who admired his character and spirit. An ardent fan of the New York Yankees and the New York Giants, Richard’s loyalty to his teams never wavered even amidst good-natured teasing from friends and family. His unwavering optimism and infectious smile left a lasting impression on everyone he met. True to his loving nature he was known to part ways with a signature phrase: “I love you, and there’s nothing you can do about it!” To cherish his memories, he leaves his loving wife; Minnie Lou Wilson, brother Almay Wilson Jr. (Rosemary) of Estill, SC; sister; Roselee Brown of Estill, SC, son and three daughters; Richard Edward Wilson Jr. (Gina) of Stamford, CT, Denise Paulemon (Gerald) of Norwalk, CT, Linda Wilson-Irizarry (Christian) of Stratford, CT, Theresa Coney (Algernon) of Bridgeport, CT, six grandchildren, Norman Lloyd III; Darnell Watkins, Mia Wilson, Tevin Dion Paulemon, Jayla Wilson, Braxton J. Irizarry and two great grandchildren; Kayla Lloyd, Malik Lloyd, two goddaughters; Savanna Razor, Remy James, eight sisters-in-law’s; Carolyn Johnson, Carolyn Grant (Jessie), Diane Hayward (Gus), Barbara Wright, Beverly Edwards, Gladys Scruggs (Joseph), Elizabeth Evans, Marthann Eady, two brothers-in-law’s; Herbert Lee Johnson (Barbara), Earl Housey (Donna), and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and life-long friends. In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded by his sisters, Lessie Mae Wilson, Mary Jane Wilson, Idena Singleton and Debra Ann Johnson. Visitation will be held on Friday, December 27, 2024 at 10:00AM - 11:00AM followed by a service of celebration at 11:00AM at Bethel AME Church 150 Fairfield Ave., Stamford, CT. Interment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery

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Richard Edward Wilson Sr.

February 2, 1947 - December 17, 2024