Richard Andrew Wilson

Richard Andrew Wilson, born December 30, 1944, in a log cabin in McNairy, Tennessee, was the son of Jesse V. "Speedy" Wilson and Mavoureen Kirk Wilson. Richard attended Refuge Church of Christ, often sharing his beliefs and his love for the Bible.

Growing up, Richard was no stranger to hard work. He often told stories of helping care for his younger siblings while his parents and older siblings worked in the fields. Despite challenges such as overcoming rickets and relearning how to walk, Richard remained determined. He never complained about his upbringing and always embraced the lessons learned along the way.

At the age of 16, Richard landed his first job pitching clods in a farmer’s field, which led to a job at his cousin Raymie Wilson’s timber mill. He spent time in Chicago and North Dakota, before eventually returning to McNairy County, where he found his long-time home at Price Sawmill. Richard worked there for over 50 years, treating his coworkers like family. Even in retirement, Richard's work ethic remained strong—he would talk about getting back to work as soon as he felt better.

Richard met Hellen Ann Sanders in the fall of 1970, and they were married on December 12, 1972. Together, they raised five children: Tiffany, Daryl, Doug, Deneen, and Alicia. Their 52 years of marriage were filled with love, laughter, and the kind of fussing that created countless cherished memories.

Anyone who knew Richard would describe him as loud and a master storyteller. Whether it was a long-winded tale or a joke he found hilarious, Richard had the ability to make everyone smile. He was known as the "cure-all" for hiccups and many other things. He never met a stranger, and if you weren’t his friend yet, you would be soon. Richard spoke his mind honestly and without a filter, always standing up for what he believed in. A die-hard Republican, he was passionate about his views and would argue them with vigor. But through it all, Richard was gentle, kind-hearted, and one of the happiest people you could ever meet. He loved playing his guitar, fishing, tinkering with lawnmowers, and, above all, spending time with his family.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Hellen Ann Wilson, and their children: Tiffany Vales (Barry), Doug Wilson (Diane), Deneen Flatt (Brian), and Alicia Wilson. He is also survived by his two brothers, Arlis Wilson and Paul Wilson, his sister, Carolyn Lambert, and his brother-in-law Larry Sanders (Mildred). His aunt Daisy Wilson and his sister-in-law, Peggy Mackiewicz. 

Richard was preceded in death by his son, Daryl Wilson; three sisters, Joellen Wilson, Maryann King, and Lavern Hamm; three brothers, Melburn Wilson, John Wayne Wilson, and Junior Wilson; and his parents, Speedy and Mavoureen Wilson.

Richard’s legacy lives on through his 11 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. His infectious laugh, unwavering love for his family, and joyful spirit will never be forgotten.

Richard Andrew Wilson lived his life with love, laughter, and great determination. Though he is no longer with us, his memory will forever fill our hearts.