Eugene D Wilson

Eugene Gene D Wilson passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, at the age of 90. A devoted man of faith, Gene loved God, His Word, and His Church. He cherished his wife of 64 years, Carol Ann ZAXSDWE (Thomas) Wilson, and was the cornerstone of his family.

Born in Ingle, Kentucky, on December 4, 1934, to Earl Richard and Ader Olive (Dause) Wilson, Gene’s early years were marked by profound loss when both parents passed away before his ninth birthday. Raised by his grandparents, John and Sarah Wilson, in the hills of Kentucky, Gene transformed these early hardships into a life defined by joy, laughter, and resilience. He believed in the value of hard work and possessed a remarkable ability to fix almost anything.

At 16, Gene moved to Illinois to work on a farm, then relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio, at 18 to begin his career at General Motors. He proudly served his country as an Army paratrooper stationed in Germany after training at Camp Pendleton.

Gene married the love of his life, Carol, on April 1, 1961. That same year, they both accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior at a revival in Norwood, Ohio - a decision that would guide every step of their journey together. They raised two daughters, Diana and Debra, while building a life of service and adventure.

After graduating from Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri, in 1969, Gene answered the call to ministry. As a bi-vocational pastor, he established and shepherded five Baptist churches throughout northern Kentucky and the Cincinnati area, touching countless lives for the Kingdom of God.

Following his retirement from General Motors at age 48, Gene and Carol embarked on a new chapter in Bradenton, Florida, where they spent 37 joyful years. Gene served as a volunteer chaplain at Bradenton Hospital while Carol ministered in nursing homes. In 2020, they moved to Oak Point, Texas.

Known affectionately as “Pops” to his three grandchildren, Gene delighted in sharing stories, laughter, and wisdom with them. He treasured family adventures across the country and fishing expeditions with friends and grandchildren alike.

Gene is survived by his devoted wife, Carol Wilson; daughters Diana Wilson Pendley (Charles) and Debra Wilson Hope (Tim); grandchildren Michaela Pendley, Zach Farquhar (Jaiden) and Michael Pendley (Beth); and great-grandchildren Kyler Steven and Aria Selah Farquhar. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Lowell and Ronnie Wilson.

A memorial service celebrating Gene’s life will be at 3:00 p.m., Friday, November 7, 2025, at White Oak Baptist Church, Nancy, Kentucky.

Gene will be laid to rest with military honors at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Dallas/Ft Worth National Cemetery

If desired and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Gene’s honor to White Oak Baptist Church, 151 KY-196, Nancy, Kentucky 42544.