Tributes

Paul Lee Wilson was born on July 9, 1942, in Glendale, California. He had one sister, Georgie. His parents were both disabled with physical handicaps which made Paul grow up very quickly taking care of both. As a teen, Paul got into working on hot rods. The movie “Rebel Without a Cause” starring James Dean depicted Paul’s need for speed and racing through the dry canals of Los Angeles. He rebuilt many blown engines during this time. Working on vehicles stayed with Paul for the rest of his life. In 1962 Paul joined the Navy and defended our country during the Vietnam war. Paul didn’t talk much about that time, but he was one of the most patriotic men that you ever knew. He fought for the freedom that America has today, God bless America. Coming out of the Navy he returned to Southern California and married his first wife, Pam. They had a daughter Stacey and a son, Shawn. Paul then worked for Lockheed, which is an aerospace contractor for NASA. Many times, Paul would joke about not being a rocket scientist but proved time and time again that he was given God’s wisdom and shared it with whomever would listen. His marriage eventually fell apart and ended in divorce. In 1980 Paul met the love of his life Edith, and they married in May 1981. Paul became stepfather to Glenn and Craig, Edith’s sons and celebrated 43 years of marriage with Edith. The resulting blessings of this blended marriage brought forth nine grandkids. They are Antonio, Celina, Douglas, Pablo, Aiyla, Audriana, Josiah, Caleb, and Jude. Paul cherished them all. Paul would quote Psalm 127:3-5 “Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed but shall speak with their enemies in the gate.” In 1993 Paul and Edith moved from Southern California to Fresno. Paul worked for Home Depot for over twenty years at the Pro Desk and as a truck driver. During this same time, they attended a non-denominational church, the Father’s House. Edith beat on her tambourine and Paul pounded a wooden staff on the floor to the rhythm of the worship music. Paul was anointed with the Holy Spirit and called by God to be a watchman for the protection of God’s people along with ushering in more Holy Spirit. Years later they both attended the University Vineyard where Paul led Bible studies and was heavily involved with men’s ministry. Paul finally retired in his early seventies but continued to pursue God’s perfect will and his calling. Paul’s purpose was to bring glory to God and add people to God’s kingdom. He served others before himself and made friends with everyone anywhere he went. Paul was involved with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) early in his life and for over the last 38 years he was clean and sober. Paul also was a leader in Celebrate Recovery (CR) where he helped people find freedom from their hurts, habits and hang-ups. Paul was the first to admit he was not perfect and still had a ways to go but always led people to the one who is perfect, Jesus Christ. Paul was truly the hands and feet of Jesus. The last four years of Paul’s life were consumed with three different cancers that he fought with chemo and radiation therapy. Paul never gave up and continually shared the love of Jesus with nurses, doctors, and everyone. He also brought joy and happiness to others even though he was always in considerable pain. He was known as Grandpa Paul, Papa Paul, Pops, Santa Claus, brother Paul, and a friend to all. He always had time to listen and always gave his opinion whether you wanted it or not. Paul passed away at Hinds Hospice on November 21, 2024, peacefully in his sleep. As the Apostle Paul says in 2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,” this is exactly what Paul Wilson did. Paul is dancing with Jesus now. We miss you Paul, but we will see you again.

Tributes

Paul Lee Wilson

July 9, 1942 - November 21, 2024