Jim was my cousin, but he was the big brother that I always wanted but never had.  Most summers my family traveled from Texas to Alabama to visit, and we cousins had many fun times together. Swimming in the spring fed creek called “The Flatwoods.”  I never knew what that was; only that it was a great way to cool off from the hot summer. We rode horses at Horse Pens Forty, and told ghost stories on our Great Aunt Lois’ front porch, well into the night, until we scared ourselves silly. As adults we may not have spent as much time together as we would have liked. But if there was a storm that hit nearby, here in North Texas, I could always count on a call from Jim to make sure we were all right.

Jim’s larger than life personality always brought a smile to me, and especially all of his many colorful stories. I miss him dearly, but know that we will meet again. Maybe on that ski slope like in Colorado; Jim proclaiming, “Yes, It was icy and treacherous in places, but it wasn’t that bad!”

I love you Jim and always will.

Ashley Summers Foster


I was heartbroken to learn of Jim's passing. Many years have passed since I last saw him, but I have no doubt he was the same, larger than life "character" as when he was around my family, so many years ago. I was just a 'tweener when Jim and my dad became climbing, backpacking and crazy inventing buddies. Little Jim, with his blonde curls, often tagged along to our house. Jim driving up or planning a trip that included Jim always made things more exciting. 
To say Jim tackled things with RECKLESS abandon is an understatement. He was fun, hilarious, smart and positive about EVERYTHING. I am a firm believer in not missing out on a drop of the nectar of life. I think I learned a lot of this by watching Jim live. I can still see his young, bearded face. The "WOAH!", "WOW!" enthusiasm he tackled everything with was contagious. I have so many wonderful memories, Jim stories...oh and the retelling of some of the awesome stories Jim would tell. 
I hate that I missed out on the second half of his life but have no doubt he was every bit the amazing, fun, generous and kind person he was young. At least I have a beautiful "snapshot" of that part of his life. When the Sproulls and Jim roamed the wilderness!
Fly high Jim...your chute has successfully opened to fly you home. Godspeed.

I remember Jim around the family dinner table. I was the new kid in town and the Wilders (Mr. Jim, Mrs.Jean, Jim, Patsy, & Beth) we’re all so kind and welcoming. Patsy would pull pranks on me and Jim and the rest of the family would go right along with it. We laughed and cried all together. Jim was very welcoming and just a nice brother to his sisters. That’s what I remember about Jim as a young man. I moved away and hadn’t seen Jim for awhile but I know he was loved. RIP Jim.

Jim was such a good friend and neighbor to me.  He was always having cook outs and loved his friends to come hang out.  He also always helped every one of his friends with any chore and always did it out of love in his heart.  He never expected a thing in return except friendship.  He will be so missed.  My love and prayers to his precious wife and family.

Jim was a great young bud to me in high school. Before we all started driving, we were loose on our bikes all over Center Point. It was a fun and simpler time. Jim was a handsome guy, square jawed, with dark bright eyes and was always flashing his perfect big bright smile. We lost track of each other 50 years ago, but I was lucky to have seen him on the Erwin HS 50th anniversary video. I wish I knew more about him during those intervening years, but those times are gone. So Rest In Peace, Jim!
Rick Sims, Dallas, TX

Jim was my first cousin and my friend. He was bigger than life and so fun to be with. I love 💘 him dearly and will miss him.  My brother, Wayne,  and he will have a ball in heaven. We will all see him soon. 


Special memories as a young girl. Memories of first dates, first kiss, and crazy fun.  Patsy, Beth, Jim, me and Stan were neighborhood terror. (Good fun terror). Sweet memories in my heart forever. See you again one day. 

I am so sorry for your loss. Jim was a great friend for many years while at Trinity and thankfully, thereafter. We shared many laughs, some crazy stories, and even a few hard times, but it was always a hoot with Jim around. He will truly be missed. 

The many hours, hunting,fishing,visiting masonic lodges, cooking out and countless other things was a blessing to mine and my family's lives. A man who  believed in God ,always kept his word and was there for a friend.  Til our spirits meet again , Ride Easy Brother.

OBITUARY

James T Wilder

April 28, 1952 – August 1, 2021

Ridout's Trussville Chapel

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