Paul Smith Wilson

WILSON, Mr. Paul Smith – age 78, passed away, Sunday, December 31, 2023 at Harper Hospital Detroit. Family Hour 10:30 AM Friday, January 12, 2024 at Newman AME Church, 233 Bagley Street with Funeral Service commencing immediately at 11:00 AM. Pastor Yolanda Whiten, Officiating. Interment Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 North Belford Road. Friends and Pallbearers will assemble 10:30AM at the church Friday. Mr. Wilson will lie in state in the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home, 268 North Perry Street, and may be viewed Noon - 6:00PM Thursday. Mr. Paul S. Wilson, born in Tampa, Florida, to Marie and Otis Wilson Sr., peacefully departed from this world on December 31, 2023. He was the second of six children. Paul's life was characterized by a commitment to service, a distinguished military career, and a legacy of leadership and dedication in both his professional and personal endeavors. Paul proudly served in the United States Army for four years, followed by two years of inactive duty. His sense of duty and discipline were evident throughout his life. After his military service, he embarked on a remarkable 40-year career at General Motors, where he ascended to the Senior Leadership Team, leaving an indelible mark on the organization. A bright scholar from the start, Paul achieved the esteemed classification of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts, and received a Drafting Engineering Scholarship from Middleton Senior High School class of 1963. His academic journey continued at Florida A&M University (FAMU), where he not only excelled in his studies but also showcased his athletic talents on the baseball field. Upon relocating to Michigan, Paul earned his Undergraduate Degree from Wayne State University and later pursued and earned his MBA Degree from Central Michigan University. Paul's spiritual foundation was as strong as his professional one. A devoted member of Newman A.M.E. Church, he served in various capacities, including President of the Lay Organization, Stewart, Usher, Church Treasurer, and Sunday School Teacher. His commitment extended beyond the local church as he held leadership positions at the Michigan Conference Lay Organization (MCLO) and the Fourth Episcopal District Lay Organization. Outside his professional and religious commitments, Paul lived a life of generosity and community engagement. He enjoyed spending time with family, exploring the world and visiting loved ones through travel, playing golf, and lending a helping hand to those in need. His involvement in the Masonic Gibraltar Lodge #19, volunteer work in the Pontiac School District, contributions to Haven, and service as a Board Member of Habitat for Humanity Oakland County are testaments to his dedication to community service. He leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Paul is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn Wilson; devoted children, Jason Wilson (Stefanie), Jaclyn Bolden (Kimeon), Jeremy Wilson (Nikki), and Anne Wilson; cherished grandchildren, Andrea Wilson, Jasmine Reid, Jaydon Wilson, Kaleb Wilson, Jaxon Wilson, and Jalen Wilson; and his sister, Mary Washington, along with a host of other relatives and friends. Mr. Wilson was preceded in death by his parents, Marie and Otis Wilson Sr., as well as his siblings, Otis Wilson II, Curtis Wilson, Patricia Richardson, Jeffery Wilson, and Woodrow Wilson. As we bid farewell to Paul S. Wilson, let us remember him not only for his professional achievements but also for the love, compassion, and generosity that defined his life. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Paul Smith Wilson

February 18, 1945 - December 31, 2023