Samuel Martin Wilson

It is with a heavy heart, we announce the passing of our dad, Samuel Martin Wilson, devoted and loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Samuel, the third child of Vernon and Bertha Wilson was born on January 6, 1934 in Austin, Texas. He joined the angels in heaven on December 27, 2022.

On June 10, 1956, Samuel was wed in Holy Matrimony to the now deceased Josephine Dukes Wilson. Samuel modelled the true meaning of the sacred vow between husband and wife — to love and cherish each other through sickness and in health — steadfastly caring for Josephine in sickness for many years before her passing in 2016. From this union, four children were born: Vernell Renee, Michael Lynn, James Martin (deceased), and Becky Dawna.

Samuel professed his devotion to Christ at an early age and faithfully served as deacon for decades at Greater Mount Zion Baptist Church as did his father, Vernon, his brother deacon James Wilson, as well as numerous relatives of the Wilson family. He supported both his own and his late wife’s church with tithes. Samuel also steadfastly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force.

Chief Master Sergeant Samuel Wilson honorably served the United States Air Force for 30 years. While serving in the Air Force, he graduated from the Strategic Air Command Non-Commissioned Officers Academy in 1974. Throughout his 30 years of service, he progressed upwards both in rank and leadership roles.

Chief Wilson collaboratively established the curriculum for the Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) Academy, and in appreciation of this contribution to the Air Force, the Air University Senior NCO Academy recognized him for this educational leadership.

During his service, Chief Wilson was honored with numerous awards and accolades. In 1972, as Technical Sergeant, the Department of the Air Force awarded him the Air Force Commendation Medal, Second Oak Leaf Cluster, for meritorious service. In 1978, as Senior Master Sergeant, he received the Meritorious Service Medal award for outstanding service authorized via executive order by President Jimmy Carter of the United States of America. In 1979, in recognition of being selected First Sergeant, he was appointed to be a member of the Air Force Sergeants Association Diamond Club. In 1981, he received a second Meritorious Service Medal award, First Oak Leaf Cluster, for outstanding service. In 1985, as Chief Master Sergeant, the Department of the Air Force awarded him the Air Force Achievement Medal in recognition of outstanding professionalism and leadership. Chief Wilson concluded his military career in 1985 and honorably retired with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, the highest enlisted rank in the United States Air Force.

After his retirement from the Air Force, Samuel established the business “Quality First General Contractor” and managed its operations as well as developed meaningful relationships with his business associates and devoted staff members for well over 20 years.

Among his children and grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Big Daddy,” Samuel was more than just a father and grandfather — he was a mentor, supporter, and a trusted confidant.

Samuel Wilson’s legacy lives on through the cherished memories of his surviving family: his three children Vernell Renee, Michael Lynn, and Becky Dawna; his brother James Wilson and sister-in-law Georgene Wilson; his brother-in-law Alex Porter; as well as his nieces, nephews, 12 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

May he rest in peace with God our Father and among the heavenly angels.