Terryl Curtis Wilson, 85, of Memphis, TN, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2023 surrounded by his wife, daughters and grandchildren. He was born on May 26, 1938, in Blytheville, ARK. Terryl was lovingly known as granddad and "Tickle Terryl" by his grandchildren. He was a devoted and adoring husband, a dedicated father to his two daughters, and recently became a tenderhearted great grandfather. He blessed us all with his kindness, generosity, and wise advice, often advising you to "learn to do your own taxes!" Terryl was the proud patriarch of the family, providing guidance and support to all.
Terryl had a successful sales career in information technology, working for IBM, Louis Allen Associates, EDS, Bell Atlantic Business Systems, DataPhase, Shell Oil Company, and concluding his career as an IBM Business Partner. He graduated from Memphis State University (now University of Memphis) with a BBA in Accounting and an MA in History and Economics. Terryl was also a proud member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity during his time at Memphis State University.
Terryl was an accomplished artist who painted and sketched the majority of the art in the family home - a quiet Picasso. He was a voracious reader and managed to read every book in the Park Cities libraries during the time that he and Nina lived in Dallas, Texas. He and Nina were fortunate enough to travel to many parts of the world and were planning their next trip; however, they both agreed that there wasn't a place they had not yet visited. When they weren't traveling abroad or visiting family, they could be found watching NCAA football rooting for their favorite teams.
Terryl was an active member of Second Presbyterian Church for over 50 years. He served as the Secretary, Treasurer, and President of the Jeb Russell Sunday School Class. Terryl was also a former member of Memphi, Chickasaw Country Club, Dallas Knife and Fork Club, and the Park Cities Rotary.
Terryl is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Nina Underwood Wilson, his daughters Margaret Nina Wilson and Elizabeth Wilson Stavinoha (Brad), his grandchildren Sydney Jo and Elizabeth Grace Eason, Jackson Downing Phipps (Madison) and Margaret Fowler Phipps, and his great-granddaughter Caroline Scott Phipps. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard C and Mary Jane Morse Wilson, and his infant sister, Mary Jane Wilson.
Terryl will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. His legacy of love, kindness, and wisdom will continue to inspire us all and we will all do our own taxes!
Funeral services were held on Friday, September 15 at 11 AM in the Chapel of Second Presbyterian Church. A private burial for immediate family will be held following the service.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralPoplar.com for the Wilson family.
