David Merl Wilson

David M. Wilson (Dave, Doc, Merl, Papa Smurf, Grandpa), passed away on December 9, 2024, at North Fulton Hospital in Roswell, Georgia. He was 83 and ready for his next chapter. Dave was born on a farm in Mosca, Colorado, to Beulah Hunt and David Wilson and often talked about lessons learned there.

At Colorado State University, Dave earned his Masters in Chemistry, then the PhD in Plant Pathology. While there, he met and soon married Susan Hay (Sue), his wife for 58 years. He always described his field of work as Food Safety, first at NC State, then at the University of Vermont, and finally at the University of Georgia Coastal Plain Experiment Station. His knowledge of aflatoxins and ability to apply research to farms, fields, and storage facilities took him all over the world. He loved traveling, especially to developing countries. Remembering the value of having mentors in his early years, Dave helped many young scientists become successful in their careers.

Dave and Sue made a great team! They renovated three houses, took fun vacations, hosted visitors from many countries, and above all, raised two terrific kids. Keri Rebecca was born in Burlington, Vermont, and Mark Jeremy was born in Tifton, Georgia. Many of Dave’s traits – very smart, honest, creative, generous, willing to take risks, - are characteristic of Keri and Mark and three grandkids. He took his role as Grandpa seriously and after retirement became a fan of swim meets, dance recitals, and concerts. Grandpa was the go-to man when anything needed fixing.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Sue; daughter, Keri (Keith) Rhodes of Roswell, GA; son, Mark (Rachel) Wilson of Marietta, GA; grandchildren, Lauren Rhodes, Kathryn Rhodes, and Max Wilson; sister, Sydney Tool of Albuquerque, NM and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his sisters, Donna Brown and Norma Jean Wilson.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. If so inclined, donations in Dave’s name can be made to Doctors Without Borders.