Dr. Harold Martin Wilson

He is survived by his wife, Eloise Burkhalter Wilson; a son, Michael K. Wilson (Deanna) of Plano, Texas; a daughter, Judith A. Wilson of Birmingham; a grandson, Daren K. Wilson (Angie) of Cedar Park, Texas; three great-granddaughters; a brother, C. Byron Wilson (Marie) of Parrish; and a sister, Austelle McAdams of Palmetto.

He was preceded in death by his parents, O.W. and Hortense Wilson of Palmetto; and a sister, Sallie Rose McAdams of Melbourne, Fla.

Dr. Wilson was a World War II Navy veteran, having served in the Pacific Theater and the Fallon, Nev. Naval Air Station, followed by 12 years in the Naval Reserves. His newspaper career ranged from The Tuscaloosa News Classified Advertising Manager to Publisher and Editor of four Louisiana newspapers.

He had a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Alabama (1950) and a Master of Arts in journalism from Louisiana State University (1967) and a Ph.D. in mass communications research from the University of North Carolina (1970). He taught journalism at the University of Southern Mississippi and Mississippi University for Women in the 1970s.

Following retirement, he and his wife, Eloise, enjoyed many years volunteering in several Forest Lake United Methodist Church endeavors, including Volunteer in Mission trips and the first Habitat house. Dr. Wilson was instrumental in starting the tape ministry and food distribution for those in need.

Services will be 2 p.m. today, Sept. 26, 2011, at Forest Lake United Methodist Church. Viewing will be at 1 p.m. Dr. Chris Denson, Senior Pastor, will be officiating the service with Rev. Hal Noble. Sunset Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Pallbearers will be Sam Davis, Patrick Irvin, Sam Calloway, Dale Cramer, Tom Watson, Harry Motes, Ed Montgomery, and Charles Helton.

Honorary pallbearers are members of the Koinonia class of Forest Lake United Methodist Church.