William Eugene (Gene) Wilson, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was born on January 13, 1931, in Chester County, TN, to the late Ulyss Eugene and Sadie Jeroline Ray Wilson. With a heart of gold and a spirit of dedication, Gene departed this life on January 10, 2026, at the age of 94 years, 11 months, and 28 days, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion.

Gene's love story began when he united in marriage to his beloved wife, Margaret Ann Browder, on April 27, 1957. Their bond, lasting over 68 years, was a beautiful testament to their enduring love and commitment. Gene was a man who honored and cherished his wife throughout their life together.

A proud veteran, Gene honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict. His service was a source of great pride, underlining his deep love for his country and the values it represents.

As a caretaker of his family’s farm, Gene took immense pride in upholding his parents’ legacy of hard work, integrity, faith, and family. He cherished the moments spent working alongside his father on the farm, a place where he learned the importance of dedication and perseverance.

Gene lived his life simply, deeply appreciating everything that surrounded him. He was a devoted husband, a supportive son, a loving father, and a cherished Papaw. He inspired those around him with his unwavering principles of honesty and integrity, values he instilled in his children and grandchildren. Despite his own limited formal education, Gene encouraged his family to pursue their academic dreams, beaming with pride at their achievements, including doctorates, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees.

A passionate fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, University of TN athletics, and MCHS sports, Gene had a favorite spot from which he passionately cheered on his local team with enthusiasm and pride. His spirit of community extended beyond sports; he enjoyed gardening, sharing the bounty of fresh vegetables with family and friends, and spent eleven formative years coaching baseball for his son and the neighborhood boys, nurturing relationships that lasted a lifetime.

Gene was a longtime member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, a place that held a special place in his heart. His unwavering faith was a guiding light throughout his life.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret Ann Wilson of Bethel Springs, TN; his son, Timothy Eugene Wilson and wife Betty of Jackson, TN; his daughter, Lee Ann Ragan and husband Joel of Selmer, TN; a sister, Frances Murray of Bethel Springs, TN; a special cousin, Mary Nell Rinks; 

five grandchildren: Dr. Ryan Patrick Wilson and wife Kate of Signal Mountain, TN, William Evan Wilson, PMHNP and wife Katie of Knoxville, TN, Matthew Atkison and wife Nicole of Selmer, TN, Michael Casey Atkison of Arlington, TN, and Elizabeth Webb and husband Brent of Lawrenceburg, TN; 

nine great-grandchildren: Eleanor Catherine Wilson, William Elliott Wilson, Patrick Timothy Wilson, Virginia Elizabeth Wilson, Mary Lena Wilson, Stella Grace Atkison, Darla Marie Atkison, Riley Kate Webb, and Levi James Webb; as well as a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Gene is preceded by his parents; a sister Jessie Mae Murray; two brothers Alvin and Harold Wilson; and brothers-in-law Will Tom Murray and Gordon Murray.

In celebrating Gene's life, we honor a man whose impact on those he loved will echo through generations. His legacy of love, strength, and unwavering faith remains a guiding force in the hearts of all who knew him.