Condolences to the family of a lovely human, from a high school friend who fondly remembers his kindness and humor.

Dear Phil and other family members,
We are sorry to have been out of town on the day of John's memorial service.  We would like to have been there to honor his friendship and to support his loved ones.  How appropriate to say farewells at the old Otter Creek location where so many wonderful experiences were shared.  We are so sorry for the loss of his presence here.  Praise God for our secure hope in Him.  Love, Tommy and Lynne Daniel  "Remember Jesus Christ...risen." II Tim. 2:8

Uncle John Payne words can not express all I want to say. I am thankful for knowing you in so many different ways. You will always hold a special place in my heart. Love, Your only Niece, Laurie

He was such a character. I remember him singing "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" at some school karaoke party. Condolences to his family, especially to Phil--MLK's other Mr. Wilson.

Mr. Wilson was one of the most memorable teachers from my MLK days. My condolences to his family--especially Phil, the other MLK Mr. Wilson.

Richard Helms '96

Mr. Wilson: you were a great teacher and truly unforgettable. I will always remember your renditions of the various characters in Romeo and Juliet in 9th grade English. God bless you and your family.
Alexa Claremont
MLK Class of 1995

Mr. Wilson, 
We will always keep you in our hearts and remember the great teacher you were. Thanks for the memories of MLK and you were a bright star in those halls! RIP my friend.
Jill McElroy
MLK Class of '98

John was terrific to work with & a pleasure to perform with on stage. He usually had the audiences in the palm of his hand.  Very funny.  He will be missed. My sympathy to his family.

I loved John truly. We were in several shows together and had so much fun. We especially enjoyed being husband and wife in The Haunting Of Hill House. During one rehearsal process, he would study for Sunday School lessons every night. So richly spiritual and kind. 
I will miss you, John.

I was shocked to hear the news of this true loss! My heart goes out to the family and specifically to Mr Phil Wilson, my long ago high school English teacher. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

See you later, by beloved brother!!!  There are no words to describe growing up with you, what memories!!!  We will be singing again, and what a reunion you are having now!!!  See you later--Have and will always love you!!!  Sis

The Nashville theater community will never be the same after the loss of John. He was such a sweet, kind, funny man and will be sorely missed. He touched many lives and I am very grateful that I was lucky enough to be one of them. My condolences are with the Wilson family at this very sad time. Love you John. You were a wonderful Nicely-Nicely to this Adelaide.

I always loved doing on a show with John--his good humor and kindness made him a joy to work with. His family is in my prayers.

Sympathy to the immediate family and extended family in their loss. Becky Smith Cagle DLHS '67

I had the great pleasure of working with John in theater several times.  He was such a kind, gentle, funny, talented man, and I cherish the time we spent together.  He will be greatly missed.

The Nashville theater community is mourning the loss of one of our brightest lights. I was always thrilled and joyful when I realized John and I were to be in yet another show together. We always sat together as we made ourselves up in the dressing room. It's where I met him in 1990 at TPAC and where I last worked with him at the Darkhorse in 2009. John Wilson will always live in my heart and the loss I feel cannot be put into words. We always parted with "I love you." I'm grateful for that. God bless the Wilson family. Keep his memory alive when you come together.

John,
You are a kind and good man and I'm glad you're my cousin.  Looking back over the years I don't remember one single thing you ever did that was unkind.  Instead, I remember a constant smile and a melodious heart.  The last fond memory I have of you is when you came to Texas to visit my folks (1999?)and we 'belted out' some of the long forgotten church hymns while you played the piano.  I am grateful that music flows through the veins of so many of us cousins, that is such a strong link to our relatives.  I am happy for you that music was and is such an important part of your life and that it filled times of sadness for you and also gave you great joy. I can only imagine the music you must be hearing and partaking in, there in 'the better land'.  I know that you are more alive than the rest of us, now that you have shed your earth suit. You are now free as the wind to come and go as you wish.  I hope to hear from you soon, cousin!  Give my Lance a hug when you see him.  Know that you are loved and will be missed by many.

Love,
Susie

To John's family I just heard about your loss and would like to extend our condolences. Haven't seen John in a while but thought he was a nice guy, and tried to do the best he could in his life decisions. Will be thinking of all of you and wish you the best.

Love Dan and Paula Brooks

John,

So many memories, so many laughs. It was my honor to serve with you, act with you, pray with you, argue with you, and talk about our similar background. You friendship, guidence, and love will always be cherished by our family.

I know you are singing by our Savior's side.

Love,

Joe, Rena, Nathan, & Hannah

John, I will miss you my brother. I do rejoice that you are singing in heaven today. I will miss our conversations/meals after our church meetings. Until I see you again, rest well my friend!
Billy Hensley

John - such an infectious laugh.  Remembering the days gone by with fondess and affection. Though you will be missed, I am glad the Lord has welcomed you home.   I celebrate the days of your life in Him.

I will always remember what a great teacher you were and smile. You were greatly loved.

Alice and Mary Sullivan, MLK classes 97 and 01

John and I worked many Saturdays together at WLAC Radio. We often got to work about the same time and whoever got there first made the coffee. John, aka Crash, made working all those Saturdays fun. I'll never forget his talents and his friendship. RIP, friend.

John you made a big impact in our lives - you will be missed but you will always be kept alive in our hearts and souls!  With love - the Steeles - Tim, Angie, Wes and Sheena!

OBITUARY

John Payne Wilson

May 30, 1947 – July 27, 2010

Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home & Woodlawn Memorial Park

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