Thomas "Tom" E. Wilson, Jr.

Thomas “Tom” Edison Wilson Jr., 78, of Jackson, Ms. passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 15, 2022 with the love of his family surrounding him. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 18, 2022 at Lakewood Funeral Home on Clinton Blvd. in Jackson, Ms. A graveside service will immediately follow at Lakewood Cemetery.

Tom was born on December 3, 1943 in Hattiesburg, Ms. In 1965, Tom enlisted with the Ms. Army National Guard and after serving his country for many years retired as a Master Sergeant. Tom’s 40 year law enforcement career began in 1967 with the Jackson Police Department where he served as a Detective with the Homicide/Robbery Division, competed on the award winning JPD Pistol Team and later served as Firearms Instructor at the JPD Pistol Range. After retiring from JPD, Tom worked as an Investigator with the Ms. State Auditor's Office and as a Court Services Officer for the United States Marshals Service.

A true patriot, Tom’s love for his country was unwavering. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and his passion for hunting, fishing, golf and shooting was only exceeded by his love for his family, friends and his puppy Brandi. Tom was a true hero to everyone that knew him and you were truly blessed to have known him. He was described by his family and friends as the toughest, strongest, most invincible man with a sweet heart as wide as the Heavens and a glowing personality that was larger than life. Good-humored and clever, Tom thrived on telling jokes to put a smile and a laugh in everyone's heart. A true friend to all, Tom never met a stranger. Living his life to serve others, Tom would gladly give the shirt from his back to anyone in need. He was known as a giant teddy bear to every child and an amazing father figure to so many. Tom enjoyed spending time with his wife, family and friends at his cabin in Amory, Ms. He loved listening to music and reminiscing about the “olden days”. Tom’s heart and sweet soul shone the brightest when he was surrounded by all of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.

Tom was preceded in death by his father, Rev. Thomas E. Wilson, Sr., his mother, Valine Wilson and his beloved son, Thomas “Chris” Christian Wilson, Patrolman with the Clinton Police Department.

Tom is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 59 years, Emilia Oswalt Wilson, brother Stephen “Steve” Wilson (Tiffany), sister Linda Wilson Edwards (Bobby), nieces, nephews, cousins and great-nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions for Tom Wilson be made to Children’s of Mississippi, ℅ Office of Development, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, Ms 39216. Online gifts may be made at umc.edu/givenow.