Cecil Wilson

April 16, 1936 – 2025

Cecil Eugene Wilson, 89, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and service that touched countless lives.

Born on April 16, 1936, to Horace Wilson and Myrtle Geeters Wilson, Cecil was the youngest of three sons, following his older brothers Bill Wilson and Bruce Wilson, both of whom preceded him in death. He graduated from West End High School in 1955 and married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Mae Williams, the following year. Their loving marriage of 60 years was a testament to their deep commitment to one another until Shirley's passing in 2016.

Cecil served his country with honor in the United States Army. Together with Shirley, he built and operated Avondale Wrecker Service & Sales for more than 30 years, where their partnership in business reflected their partnership in life.

In 2018, Cecil found love again and married Lawanna Montgomery, with whom he shared nearly seven wonderful years until his passing.

Cecil's faith was the cornerstone of his life. He served faithfully as a deacon at McElwain Baptist Church, where he also taught Sunday school and participated in prayer outreach efforts. His heart for service extended beyond the church walls—he drove a bus for an inner-city children's ministry and was actively involved with Bill Glass Prison Ministries for over a decade, bringing hope and compassion to those who needed it most.

Above all, Cecil was a devoted family man who demonstrated unwavering faithfulness to those he loved. He is survived by his wife, Lawanna Montgomery Wilson; his children, Roxanne Wilson Nix (Bobby Nix) and Michael Gene Wilson (Lisa Wilson); and his three cherished grandchildren, Rachel Wilson, Mitch Wilson, and Sarah Nix.

Cecil's life was marked by his generous spirit, steadfast faith, and commitment to serving others. He was truly a blessing to all who knew him, and his legacy of love and service will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 17th at Kilgroe Funeral Home, located at 1750 Ashville Road, Leeds, AL. Visitation will be available from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, and the memorial service will start at 12:00 PM. A brief graveside service will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Cecil’s name to either Bill Glass Behind the Walls Prison Ministries or Hope Community Church, 4445 Montevallo Road, Birmingham, AL 35213.