She was born on March 23, 1942, in Lufkin, Texas, to William and Juanita Higdon. A lifelong resident of Lufkin, Pat graduated from local schools before earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1968. She answered the call to become a teacher, dedicating her life to shaping young minds and serving others with compassion and purpose.
On a foundation of faith and devotion, Pat married the love of her life, James Glidden Wilson, in 1966. Together they shared 59 years of marriage built on commitment, love, and a shared devotion to Christ.
Pat was a woman of unwavering Christian faith. She loved her church family deeply and walked daily with her faith, and never missing an opportunity to share God's Word with those willing to listen. She believed each day had purpose and lived accordingly, serving faithfully and loving generously.
She was known for her warm spirit and heart of gold. Pat never met a stranger and made everyone feel welcome. She loved reading, spending time with family, and investing in the lives of those around her. Her family was her greatest earthly joy, and her faith was her eternal anchor.
Pat is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, James Glidden Wilson; her daughter, Janna Wilson; her nieces, Angela Danford and husband Clif Danford, and Jocelyn Lovato and husband Jesse Lovato; her nephew, James Winthrop, Jr.; four great-nieces and nephews; six great-great nieces and nephews; and two great-great-great nieces. Though she had no grandchildren of her own, her nieces and nephews were cherished as her direct family and held a special place in her heart.
She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Mary Bethany Wilson; her parents, William and Juanita Higdon; her sister, Margaret Winthrop; and her brother-in-law, James Winthrop.
There is no doubt Pat was ready to meet her Maker and was welcomed with open arms into eternal peace.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, February 18, 2026 from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at Gipson Funeral Home, 1515 S. Chestnut St., Lufkin, TX 75901.
Funeral Services will be held Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Trinity Baptist Church, 1641 FM 325, Lufkin, TX 75901, with Brother Steve Cowart officiating.
Serving as pallbearers are Gage and Eben Smith, Dustin and Dillen Danford, Kyle Roy, and Teal Winthrop.
