Dalian Raye Wilson

Dalian Raye Wilson was born to the loving parents of Catherine “Cathy” Wilson and Jimmie Lee Smith December 15, 1973 in Vallejo, California. With God and family on his side, Dalian departed this life on February 01, 2025 in Fort Wayne, IN.

Dalian attended and graduated from Northrop High School in Fort Wayne, IN, where he was an outstanding basketball player. Through his talented basketball skills, Dalian received many basketball scholarship offers. Dalian went on to pursue a basketball career at Otero College in La Juanta, Colorado.

Dalian loved traveling, playing cards, the game of corn hole, sitting around the kitchen table reminiscing and hanging out with his friends and family. He was a loving, humorous and spontaneous man. Dalian enjoyed making everyone laugh. His jokes and humor will continue to live on.

In his honor, Dalian leaves to cherish: three amazing children, Domonique Gleason, Courtney Wilson and Dalian “DJ” Wilson Jr, sisters, Cheri Smith and Latasha Smith, brother De’Jrick Smith and honorary brother/cousin Roger Woods Jr, along with many other aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Dalian was proceeded in death by his parents Catherine Wilson and Jimmie Smith, grandparents Jimmie Lee Grice, Daisy Mae and David Wilson Sr, Mary “Momma Lois” and William “Bill” Spence Sr and his late aunt Lillie Harris-Watkins, who he referred to as his second mom.

The family of Dalian Wilson extends its sincere gratitude to his loving family, Aunt Sharon Hill, Uncle Dave Wilson Jr and cousins, Darryl Williams, Anita and Ellis Woolridge for their guidance and support during his bereavement following the loss of his mother five months prior. We are truly grateful.

The memorial service of Dalian Raye Wilson will be held Friday, March 07, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at the David Hefner Pavillion, 1903 St. Marys Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN.