Robert Wilson

Robert was born on July 9th, 1942, in Waco, Texas to John Lee Wilson and Gay Nelle (Cotharn) Wilson. He was the older brother to Billie Gene Wilson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny Lee and Gay Nelle (Cotharn) Wilson.

He met his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Jean Russell, while attending Waco High School. They married in 1960 and began a life together filled with love, family, challenges and cherished memories. They welcomed three children, 2 daughters and 1 son.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years; their three children, Cheryl DeAnn Wilson, Misty Ann (Wilson) Gordon (Bob) and their son, Robert Michael Wilson (Mary), three grandchildren, Melody Gordon, Stephen Gordon, and Haley (Wilson) Alexander (Hez); and one great-grandson Ezra Alexander. His family was among his greatest joys and remains a lasting part of the legacy he leaves behind.

In 1970 Robert answered God’s call to ministry, beginning a lifetime of serving others and sharing the Gospel. He had the privilege of pastoring in seven churches and participating in mission trips overseas, including Peru, Chile, Malawi, Uganda and 16 trips to Brazil. He loved sharing the message of God’s love wherever he went, often reminding others of the words of John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him, shall not perish but have everlasting life.”

For those of you who knew him, you know his other passion was golf. He loved to play and compete in tournaments. He rarely turned down an invitation to play. He made his first hole in one at Woodlake Country Club and his second one at Alsatian Country Club. Those who played with him though, got to know him and began to call him “Preacher.” Whether on the golf course, in the pulpit, or among family and friends, Robert had a passion for making sure others knew of God’s love and the hope found through Jesus Christ.

He was a devoted friend and took an active role in organizing reunions, gatherings, and dinners for his Waco High School Class of 1960. He continued bringing his classmates together throughout the years, helping to coordinate their reunions all the way through their 65th class reunion.

Robert was a beloved husband, dad, brother, uncle, granddad, great granddad, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”