James Edward Wilson Jr.

James Edward Wilson Jr. (Ed), age 90 of West Columbia, Texas went home to be with the Lord on October 14, 2023, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loved ones.

Ed was born to the late James E Wilson Sr and Lela Mae Childs on January 17, 1933 in Houston, TX. Ed was a lifelong resident of West Columbia, graduating from Columbia High School.  Shortly after graduation he was drafted by the Army into the Korean War where he honorably served his country as a radio, relay and carrier operator.  Following his military service he attended the University of Texas, earning a degree in geology.

He eventually went on to marry Bettye Joyce, raising two sons and a daughter together.  He enjoyed traveling with his wife and kids in the early years and was always at Wednesday prayer and Sunday church services.  He was a member of Family Life Church where he served as an usher for many years.  He adored his church family as much as they all adored him.  He especially enjoyed his “Young at Heart” group, which remained close through the years with most attending his 90^th birthday party earlier this year.  Ed doted on Bettye and was her primary care taker in her last years as she battled Parkinson’s.  He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.  He was loved by many and will be dearly missed by us all.  The world has lost a good man and heaven has gained another angel.

Ed was proceeded in death by his parents, James E Wilson Sr and Lela Mae Childs; his wife Bettye Joyce Wilson. He is survived by daughter Eddye Powell and husband Jeff of West Columbia; son James (Jimmy) Wilson III of Damon; son James Gavin and wife Sherilene of Lake Jackson; grandchildren Megan & husband Kevin Hearn , Jared Powell, James (Jamie) Wilson IV, Christopher & wife Emily Gavin, David & wife Hayley Clinton, Travis & wife Tara Clinton, Christopher & wife Taylor Clinton, Lauren Gavin; great grandchildren Caden Hearn, Tristan Clinton, Alaina Clinton, Carson Clinton, Jacob Clinton, Avery Clinton, Cooper Clinton, Samuel Clinton, Melody Clinton and Aubrey Thomas.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Friday October 20^th from 5-7 p.m. and again on Saturday October 21^st from 9-10 a.m.  at C.T. Baker Funeral Home 634 S. Columbia Dr. West Columbia.  Funeral Service to begin at 10a.m. at the funeral home.  Interment with full military honors to follow at Old Columbia Cemetery.