Obituary: Clea Wilson
Clea Wilson, a beloved figure in the community of Medon, Tennessee, departed this earthly realm on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and remarkable accomplishments. Born in Madison County, Tennessee, on February 25, 1939, Clea was a vibrant spirit known for his unwavering commitment to family, work, and his community.
Clea retired from the ICC Railroad in 1986, after many years of service. His industrious nature led him to work for Bell South, and he also spent joyous days driving a truck for West Tennessee Forestry, embodying a strong work ethic that was the hallmark of his character. Beyond his professional endeavors, he found immense joy in his hobbies; fishing and motorcycles and traveling with his wife, Gail, filling his life with adventure and treasured memories, weaving together a tapestry of experiences shared with family and friends. They greatly enjoyed delivering new motor homes and campers during their travels together.
Clea’s devotion to his community was evident as he served as a Judge in Medon, Tennessee, during the 1990s—a testament to his leadership and commitment to public service. His warm spirit and melodic voice resonated in his role as song leader at the Baptist church in Saltillo, fostering a sense of unity and faith among his community members and he was a member of New Union Baptist Church.
Church services will be held at New Union Baptist Church on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 3 p.m. with the burial in the New Union Cemetery. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Bolivar is in charge of professional arrangements.
He is survived by his loving daughters, Sheila Phillips Williams and Mike of Toone, and Andrea Pounds of Humboldt, as well as his cherished son, Jerold Wilson and Jana of Finger. The warmth of his legacy extends through siblings, including a sister, Jane Ellis and George of Medon. Clea’s grandchildren, Justin Wilson and Ashley, Mikiah Wilson and Gabby, Emilee Morphis, Richard Ian Williams and Leigha, and Michael Seth Williams, hold close the precious memories they created with him, while his great-grandchildren, Tiffany Wilson, Millie Morphis, Esaias Morphis, Harper Wilson, Harlee Kate Williams, and Bradley Layne Williams, will continue to carry forth his spirit in their hearts.
Clea now joins his beloved parents, Herman Joseph Wilson and Mellie Hammers Wilson, and his son, Joseph Timothy Wilson, in eternal rest. While their absence is felt deeply, their memory will forever be cherished by those he left behind. Additionally, he was preceded in death just a few hours earlier, by his loving wife, Gail Sterling Wilson, who died on Friday, May 23, 2025, in Jackson, Tennessee.
As we reflect on the life of Clea Wilson, we are reminded of the indelible mark he has left on each of us—a true testament to the beauty of a life well-lived and generously shared. Memorial contributions in his name may be sent to Hardeman Adoptable Animals or New Union Cemetery Fund.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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