David Reed Wilson

David Reed Wilson, age 77, a prominent Austin businessman, civic leader, and devoted husband and father, died Thursday, July 8, 2004 at his home of complications from progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). David was well-known for his loyalty and commitment to family, friends, business associates and charitable organizations. He was a leader in the dairy business for more than 40 years with Superior Dairies, which was founded by his father as the Lockhart Creamery. David later served as President of Superior Dairies until its acquisition by Borden in 1980. Over the years, David generously shared his time and business acumen with the Austin community. His long history of civic activities includes serving as President of St. David’s Healthcare Foundation and 33 years of service on the Board of Trustees at St. David’s, President of Downtown Rotary Club in 1978 and member for 45 years, lifetime member of the Salvation Army with more than 43 years of service, Chairman and President of the United Way campaign, member of the Board of Directors of Austin Savings Association (later University Savings), Board member of the Boy Scouts of America starting in 1961, Treasurer of the Dairy Products Institute, President of the Tuberculosis Association, Board member of the Austin Chamber of Commerce, President of the Junior Chamber of Commerce in 1954, and was voted Outstanding Young Man of Austin in 1958. He was active in leadership positions at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church for 54 years, and particularly enjoyed the Sunday school discussions. David Wilson was born in Lockhart, Texas on February 6, 1927 to Newton and Mary Reed Wilson. He married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Patton in 1949 and remained a loving husband for 55 years. Aside from being a prominent business and civic leader, David was a man who placed great importance on family and friendships. He cherished his wife, Nancy, and children and grandchildren, all of whom will greatly miss him. In addition to his wife Nancy, he is also survived by his son, David Reed Jr. and wife Bernadette, daughter Melinda and husband Robert Neblett, and son Rob and wife Sylvana. Grandchildren include Pierre, Jeremy, Martin and Adele Wilson (Reed and Bernadette), Colin, James and Hunter Neblett (Melinda and Robert), and Erik Wilson (Rob and Sylvana). The family expresses it’s deep gratitude and appreciation to Terry Barnett, Gabriel Igharoro, and David Patterson for their sensitive and loving care around the clock for the past few years. In addition, many thanks go to Debbie Pearson, Ellen Adams, and Girling Healthcare and Hospice. David showed great courage in his battle against PSP and managed to keep his spirit and sense of humor during the last and very trying period of his life. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 9th at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 10th at Tarrytown United Methodist Church, 2601 Exposition Blvd. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke United Methodist Church, 1306 West Lynn, Austin, Texas 78703 or to St. David’s Foundation, 900 East 30th Street, Suite 206, Austin, Texas 78705. Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 3125 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, Texas 78705 (512) 452-8811. You may view memorials online at www.wcfish.com