William Aaron Wilson

William Aaron Wilson, born April 23, 1935 in Empire, Alabama attended Hanceville High School. After graduation, he worked at Roberts and Sons printing Company in Birmingham until drafted into the Army in 1958. After serving active duty for two years, he joined the Army Reserves where he proudly served his country for another 25 years. He retired from the Army Reserves with the rank of Sergeant Major. He worked at Chicago Bridge and Iron Company for 34 years then at Gardendale’s First Baptist Church for 20 years. He was a member of Ketona Baptist Church for 30 years and GFBC for 35 years. In the church he served as deacon, Sunday School teacher, usher and in many more volunteer roles. His favorite job was working at Camp David.

He was affectionately known as “Pop” and loved being with and loving on people. He never met a stranger. He was a generous and kind man with a servant’s heart. His loving spirit and quick wit left a mark on those who met him until the very end.

He was married to Nadine Abner Wilson for 67 years. They have one daughter, Sharon Wilson Deitchel married to husband Jamie, one grandson, John Gelder and his wife Isabella. He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews and sister-in-law, Peggy Wilson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elton and Elsie Wilson, brother James Wilson, sister Jewel Edney, and nephew Mike Edney.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Gardendale First Baptist Church, Camp David Fund.

A visitation for William will be held Friday, September 29, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Ridout's Gardendale Chapel in the Magnolia Hall, 2029 Decatur Highway, Gardendale, AL 35071. A funeral service will occur Saturday, September 30, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Ridout's Gardendale Chapel.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsgardendalechapel.com for the Wilson family.