Sam was born on October 13, 1932 in Oil Trough, Arkansas. He joined the Air Force in June 1951. He retired from the Air Force in 1972 completing 21 years of service at the rank of MSgt as a fuel supervisor. He earned many awards and commendations throughout his career. He later started a business as a paint contractor. He lived in Sherwood, Arkansas for 26 years before moving to Vilonia, Arkansas for the past 20 years. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite and Scimitar Shrine Temple.
Sam is survived by four daughters and their spouses; Wanda and Dennis Jamerson, Debbie and Mike Wilmarth, Sharon and Steve Powell, Deann and Mike Campbell. He has five grandchildren; Jonathon and Mary Staggs, Scott and Cheyenne Staggs, Josh Thomas, Brittney Poetzman and Dilan Jamerson. Two great granddaughters; Chloe Staggs and Madeline Staggs, Three brothers; Tom Wade, R.A. Wilson, Jessie Ray Wilson and one sister; Wanda Lauderbaugh and several nieces, nephews and friends.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents Ruben A. and Sophia (Lindley) Wilson, beloved wife of 51 years, Delia (Horner) Wilson. Eleven brothers: Nathan Wilson, Woodrow Wilson, Leonard Wilson, Joe B. Wilson, Johnny Wilson, Roy Wilson, Troy Wilson, Sherman Wilson, Burton Wade, Dean Wade and J.W. Wade Five sisters: Ruth Wilson, Geneva Wilson, Willie Mae Wilson, Shelby Jean Wilson, and Alta Mae Wade.
Sam enjoyed summers at the beach, deep sea fishing and family time. A favorite memory is traveling to Florida enjoying peanuts put in a glass coke bottle. We would leave early in the morning so he could enjoy the peace and quiet while we slept. Dad played the “quiet game” with us while traveling. He would always offer $5 -$10 dollars to the person who could stay quiet the longest, but had to be at least an hour. None of us could stay quite long enough to receive the money. Sam had a passion for fishing, bowling and shooting pool. Enjoyed beating you at checkers, chess or any card game.
We remember Dad in the Shriner’s Circus Parade as a clown or dunking booth entertaining the crowds. He would purchase extra tickets so many children could enjoy going to the circus.
He could always be found cheering on his favorite team the Arkansas Razorbacks. He loved taunting his out of state Air Force Buddies as to whom was going to win the game.
His greatest love, besides our mother, was the “Wilson Ranch” or “The Farm”. He loved fishing from the ponds, hunting dove and taking care of the cattle. He baled a lot of hay but I wouldn’t say that was a passion. We had several events always taking place at the farm such as hay rides, fish fries and family get-togethers. “The Wilson Motel” was on a plaque that hung outside the entrance to both homes they lived in. A popular place for friends and family to stay, but you might want to make reservations.
We will always remember his laughter, his hugs and kisses. When you would tell him that you loved him, he would always reply “Love you most”.
