Johnnie Wilder Obituary

Johnnie Wilder Jr., the smooth and soulful lead singer of the '70s and '80s R&B sextet Heatwave, and who made a comeback as a gospel singer after an automobile crash, died Saturday at his home in Clayton. He was 56. Mr. Wilder founded Heatwave with his brother, Keith Wilder, who still performs with the two-time Grammy-nominated band.

Published by Dayton Daily News on May 16, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Johnnie Wilder

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725 Entries

Ich sah die Band in Zürich ca. 1977 im Dancing "BlackOut". Er war ein guter Sänger und Tänzer. Ruhe in Frieden

Eveline Antonelli

January 3, 2024

Growing up in Washington, DC during the 1970s was a unique experience. The music of Heatwave made it just that much more remarkable.

Watching the video of you and Teddy Pendergrass on Maury during December 1998 showed a side of you that of which I'm sure most people are not aware. The way Teddy praised you and how much happiness you radiated is something others need to learn. Clearly that comes out in your music.

Tenika Watson, the woman who was in the Teddy the night he was paralyzed, titled her book, "My Life's No Accident."

When I watched the Heatwave episode of Unsung on Mario Mantese's website just listening to the things your wife, mother, brother and everyone had to say about you, it's clear your story needs to be told in a lot more detail.

Thank you.

Nnamdi Azikiwe

Other

December 13, 2023

You will truly be missed Always and Forever.

CC

July 26, 2023

I understand now why I fell in love with this angelic voice of a man whom I never knew by a physical greeting, but by the amazing touch of the hand of my ELOHYM. It is amazing how he works his amazing and wonderful works in our lives when we fully surrender our own will unto him as we learn how to love him more everyday. In our CREATOR'S strategic plan for Mr. Johnnie Wilder Jr. He left the world's entertainment industry to use his Yah given gift to GLORIFY not HIMSELF nor others, but to glorify, PRAISE and WORSHIP the one who gave him life and who redeemed himself back unto him. THE ONE WHO IS WORTHY OF OUR PRAISE..PRAISE YAHUAH THE ELOHYM OF YISRAEL!!! I thank him for the work he did in and through him especially at the end of this life, for he found true understanding of his PURPOSE in life and for this reason his goal was fulfilled. I am grateful for this obedient soul and look forward to meeting my beloved brother Johnnie Wilder Jr in the kingdom of heaven that draws neigh.
Rest well beloved..rest well. Thank you father for drawing him unto you and for providing a way to set the captives free through the love of your son, YAHUSHA who willingly have up his life for our DELIVERANCE and REDEMPTION. ALL PRAISES AND GLORY UNTO TMH. HALLELU YAH!!!

KaYah Yisrael

Other

February 7, 2023

You are so missed and I never knew you. You have the voice of an angel that will never be forgotten. Thank you so much for pursuing music and forming Heatwave! Thank you for continuing with music even after Heatwave. You had such a sweet spirit that could be seen whether someone knew you or not. Continue to rest peacefully with the Heavenly Father. The Star of A Story.

Cherrell A.

Other

July 12, 2022

I continue listening to Heatwave records. They were the best.

Carolyn Carter

May 30, 2022

This is sending my heartfelt sympathy he lifted up my heart with his song. Miss him and the group deeply. The rest in the Lord.

Larry Samuels

Other

December 28, 2021

I remember growing up and my Dad playing "My Goal" early on Sunday mornings when I woke to get ready for Sunday service. He was just an awesome, awesome asset and talent to the Church of Christ. His second CD "One more day" just as a great as the first. I love bother. His musical genius was second to none. He will forever be missed.

Niesha Goodwin

Friend

December 16, 2021

I got to see Mr. Wilder perform once when he song Always and Forever to Amarosa. He was amazing! What was more amazing was his heart. I was blessed to work with him in the studio where he dedicated time at my Alma Mater Central State University. He taught me so much about recording. He recorded students for free and only asked that they did a PSA for CSU's radio station. Mr. Wilder worked with myself and other students teaching us the process of laying a track. Mr. Wilder was a wonderful mentor that I get the pleasure of saying I had. Thank you Mr. Wilder....

Christie Charles

Student

May 16, 2021

Loved Johnnies voice where can i get his last cd -one more day or a copy of it please

DON EUGENE SETZER

Friend

April 25, 2021

Johnnie Wilder's melodic voice has yet to be duplicated. Over and over I listen to Heatwave's music and recall the "good ole days". I was devastated when I heard of his accident! May he rest in peace. Rest in peace also, Keith and those in the band who left us. Thanks for the memories!

Carolyn Carter

March 28, 2021

No one knew who heatwave was when they performed and opened for Chaka khan inn Detroit, Mi and they turned the place out, Johnny was doing flips off the speakers doing the splits and took the crowd by surprise with his brother Keith as they opened the stage with the record "Put the word out " GLARING~ Psychedelic LIGHTS raveling ...taking everyone by surprise ..."No one has seen HEATWAVE BEFORE !" Johhny would blurt out loud on stage..."Nooo" the crowd would yell...then the rest of the night everyone knew who they were...the Drummer Ernest 'bilbo ' Berger was drumming so loud you felt you were next to him, the group was so strong they gave them a curtain call ..."HEAT WAYE~HEATWAVE" and it was a buzzing sound through out the building...just killed the next act...threw out heat wave stickers with the group logo [which I still have]....totally thrilling experience of one of the best thrilling groups ever put together on stage that year....stuck in my mind forever. Heard years later about his accident and my heart sank...however still made a hit in the aftermath 'Turn around" and I was happy to hear his voice again. I had the day off at work the day of his funeral and started to drive from Detroit to pay my respects , but he lived a life that was well respected in history, I hope it never fades away ...thanks for giving us the music to remember you by, Keith Wilder -Mr Temperton R.I.P. also and all members who left the earth ...thanks for great ride into the music kingdom.

Devon L Smith

January 22, 2021

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Farasha M

January 5, 2021

Always and Forever!! You will never be forgotten.
RH

Rose Hunter

November 15, 2020

Always and Forever!! You will never be forgotten.

Rose Hunter

November 15, 2020

I met Heatwave in London 1987/88 I was a young singer. All these years later the music is even sweeter and brother Johnny's beautiful composition 'One More Day' ministered to me this week so strong I was in tears. The Lord is still using Johnny Wilder Jr. to minister, what a great man! A great voice, a great mind, who knew the great Saviour, what an example, always and forever!

Bishop Steven L. Evans

Brother

October 24, 2020

His music was part of my early life in Scotland, I loved his voice and Heatwave were in my opinion one the best funk, should bands of all time. God bless Johnny and thanks for the memories From Frank inn Bonnie Scotland.

Frank Lestet

October 2, 2020

So gifted and talented and such a wonderful man.

September 23, 2020

Just listening to All You Do Is Dial..Timeless Music that I will always love RIH Mr Wilder. .

Lolo Nocentelli

March 26, 2020

Was just watching a video- WOW! What a gift we got!!!

Shanna

January 4, 2020

What a beautiful voice ..I try to sing ..always forever since I was a kid..I still can't hit that note..no one can...like him..You will be miss..May God be a God of all Comfort to the Family's..My condolence..

November 18, 2019

I hate I did not keep in touch after Heidelberg. I am proud of your successes and send my love to your family.

Elder (2LT) Melvin Allen Tukes

November 12, 2019

You and your music are timeless Mr. Wilder! You are forever a part of the soundtrack of my life! Fly with the Angels my friend!!! - Wiggy

September 30, 2019

Arnetta Savage

March 11, 2019

Just finding out about his passing - in 2019, & it still hurts. May God give his family comfort - only He can!

February 25, 2019

Rest in peace Johnnie Wilder ✝

S Lee

October 16, 2018

Johnny Wilder Jr. I so hope one day I will get to hear and enjoy your voice in heaven cause I know you haven't stop. May God Bless your wife and daughter along their ways of life. Will meet you soon!!!!

Sheila Perena

September 21, 2018

Johnnie you have made a lot of people happy with your time on this Earth,the song Always And Forever makes me cry for the right reasons,God Bless you !

Steve Dixon

March 26, 2018

Michael May

January 21, 2018

I fell n Love with this song when I was 13 years old back n 1979 living in my home town of SPUR TEXAS... I LOVE this group.... U will ALWAYS n FOREVER b remember.... LOVE U... RIP

Linda McKinney

November 17, 2017

One of the greatest musicians Mr Johnnie Wilder.

L

October 31, 2017

Love ya Dad

Taylor Wilder

July 9, 2017

He is a continue inspiration for me. 2 seek god with my whole heart and 2 use my gift for his glorification. I am assured he is continuing his life with God now

Demetri Pinkins

June 10, 2017

His voice is priceless

Jemy Villanueva

May 26, 2017

Thanking God for giving us you and sharing beautiful music that will never age.

Yvonne Ndunge

March 31, 2017

1979 wasn't the end of Heatwave nor Johnnie Wilder Jr. Your voice & music is still as beautiful as the day it was recorded !!! Thank U Johnnie 4 givin us great & lasting memories & 2 all Heatwave fans around the world in the words of the song from "Current" (1982) album, let's all "Look After Love"...........R.I.P

Charles Hayes

February 23, 2017

For the 10 years you've been gone. I send a light up towards heave for you. GOD bless you heart.

Arnetta Savage

October 24, 2016

All I can say is Mr Johnnie Wilder Jr. was an awesome contributor of greatness of life. A genious in his own right. I watch Heatwave's videos on YouTube often these days. The 70s and 80s were some of the best times in my life. We do not have great bands like Heatwave anymore. GOD bless his wonderful soul. Thank you for all you've done for the world. A song is nothing until it's brought to life. You brought life to Heatwave songs. The best smile in the world. GOD bless your wife and daughter. Family is so important especialy during you recovery. The best part is he never stop living. Stayed productive helping other artists.

Arnetta Savage

October 22, 2016

I was only 13 years old when Boogie Nights and Always and Forever became hits to be followed by The Groove Line (my all time favorite). Just loved listening to your beautiful voice and most recently realized how beautiful you were inside and out. May you rest in peace with our Lord. Will see you again in Heaven.

Marla Rios

October 21, 2016

Rest in peace Johnnie. God blessed you with such an anointed voice. I know you are singing with the Angels. Thank you for sharing your gift with us.

Laverne Mooring

October 18, 2016

I love Johnnie Wilder Jr all my life, he will never be forgotten form then tell now always and forever much love

Michelle Hodapp

October 12, 2016

GOD bless your soul Mr Wilder Jr. You were such a genious. Great singer. I was only 16 years old when I first heard 'Always and Forever'. My favorite song ever. You sang that song man. Wow! Then 'Grove line' next LP. What a great entertainer. I listen to Heatwave live in Germany on YouTube. I remember watching Heatwave performing at the Grammys at home. First time seeing who they were. Sleep on until that morning it's time to meet Jesus in the mid air. Thank Mrs Roaslyn Wilder and Keith Wilder for sharing your story on 'Unsung'.

Arnetta Savage

October 11, 2016

What a Special Soul Johnnie was. I truly believe it was his God given purpose to infuse joy into our lives and lift our spirits through his music. Music is Universal and so was Johnnie Wilder and Heatwave! He lives on through his music. We will ALWAYS love you Johnnie!

Darya Moore

October 8, 2016

Incredible singer, love heatwave music and his songwriting abilities. Rip you sing with the Angels as you are now

September 1, 2016

Happy Birthday. You are loved and truly missed.

Indy S

July 3, 2016

andrea c

June 25, 2016

I've always loved to hear Johnie Wilder and Heatwave! I'm also glad that he was a member of the Church if Christ! RIP bro. Wilder! You had a voice out if this world!!!!!

Charolyn kelly

June 24, 2016

10 years gone but never forgotten.

Andy

May 23, 2016

you voice is truly a gift from the heavens bro...RIP..I remember as a child listening to "in the garden" before Sunday service..

Prescott Hilson

February 12, 2016

Its 2015 What I want to say its hard for me to put into words. Listening to Mr. Wilder sing was and will always be a joyful gift to me. I know he was more than acceptional singer. I just came across this and could'nt not make a statement. May God bless him eternally. He left this world a saved man.

Love Lawrence

December 22, 2015

Man'. When I hear your song's I'm forever 15 . My happy years thanks to you

Theresa Nash

December 2, 2015

Recently saw the show Unsung and was reminded how talented Heatwave and Johnny was. So proud of Dayton's son and always will keep you in mind and soul through your music. God Bless

Caroline Thrash

November 30, 2015

Rest in Peace., loved your music. I saw your show on Lakrnheath Air Force Base, England and it was wonderful . I will never forget.

Pauline George

November 30, 2015

Pauline George

November 30, 2015

You are missed.

Jo Ragland

November 29, 2015

You continue to be an inspiration...
Always n Forever...

Lorena De Haro

September 4, 2015

Kelvin Hicks

July 16, 2015

Johnnie, you and your music was and (still is) an inspiration to me and I will always treasure it. I am glad you home with the Lord.

Continued Peace and Blessings to your family!!

Deb J

July 16, 2015

In God's care rest in peace

Dwayne Bickham,Sr.

July 10, 2015

Recently, saw the Unsung show with Heatwave and was truly inspired by Johnnie's story/testimony. May God bless and keep the Wilder family.

Qiana Davis

June 9, 2015

GOD BLESS YOU.
THERE IS LOOK AFTER LOVE.
I'LL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOUR BEAUTIFUL VOICE.

March 15, 2015

He was a great singer. Always and Forever

S Donofrio

March 1, 2015

Voice like an angel.
Resting in Gods hands for now.

Rhonda White

January 21, 2015

Johnnie you will always live on, thanks to you the years you been here make our live's a happy place,

Theresa Nash

January 17, 2015

Johnnie Wilder...a fellow musician and a life long musical hero for me personally. I was blessed for that and I miss you so much my friend. God bless you and Your family.

Nick Elliott

January 15, 2015

One of my favorite group back in the day. I didn't know until now of his death. I'm sad to hear about this. May his family find comfort in God word Romans 15:4

Beverly F

October 16, 2014

Still listening to your beautiful angelic voice ...You were the best Johnnie

Anthony Wood

October 4, 2014

Your life blesses me still to this day! Love to your family!

Camille

Camille Wyatt

September 17, 2014

You will be missed may you rest in the arms of jesus

Alonzo Fairley Jr

August 5, 2014

I never got to see you sing but I remember my boyfriend and friends trying to sing your part. RIP

Tracey Wilson

July 28, 2014

My wife and i danced to this song always and forever in 1978 and were married to this song. Thanks heatwave.

Charles Stewart

July 18, 2014

I worshiped Heatwave and purchased every album they recorded. I memorized every song. Rod Temperton was a great song writer and a few of the songs he wrote for Michael Jackson I often wondered how Johnny would have sounded singing them. I grew up playing saxophone, but Johnny made me want to sing. RIP man. I pulled out the band's Central Heating CD tonight and listened to all tracks. Timeless. Good times and memories you provided me growing up.

Baron Gipson

July 18, 2014

love ya cousin

clarice wilder

June 25, 2014

Theresa Headd

May 2, 2014

Your the man still' I don't know you one on one but my best friend was killed and when I hear your song's I think of the good day's and my happy time's. Thank you Johnny and family

Theresa Headd

May 2, 2014

My husband and I loved you and Heatwave. Your music defined an important era for us. The music of Heatwave is still important to us. It is full of soul, beauty, truth and good old, hard core funk. Love it, and love you always (and forever).

Carrie Ameli

April 14, 2014

DJ kenny6 with kzkoradio.com or kzko. I recall seeing HeatWave during the late seventies in FrankFurt,Germany at the Plantation Club.T.U. (RIP)

DJ Kenny6 DJ Kenny6

October 14, 2013

Johnnie i really charished times we had. I do miss u. I guess our god wanted you there to sing for him. Blessings to ur family.

Rosalyn Fernandez

September 1, 2013

BRO RANEY I MISS MY BROTHER

August 22, 2013

To the Wilder family my prayers to you all what an angelic wonderful talent he had I so wish that I got to see him in person he has given so much joy with his gift the determination he showed to live and continue to share his gift thank you for sharing him with us God bless you

paul amorosi

May 12, 2013

R.I.P. Johnny Wilder. A phenomenal talent and inspiration to many. Reflecting on you and thinking good thoughts of all the beautiful music you brought our way.

Karen Hill

May 6, 2013

Beverly Mack

May 3, 2013

Thank you for the music. God bless x x

Lj Mann

March 20, 2013

I first saw Johnnie and Heatwave live when stationed in the UK at Royal Air Force Bentwaters Air Base in East Suffolk in 1976 during one of their tours. The band was outstanding. He never knew what an impact he had on my life as a musician afterwards. Like Johnnie I started in rhythm, blues and funk and made my way to God's music. May God always and forever keep him in His loving arms.

Vincent Blake

March 20, 2013

Truly miss you & your voice, you made the whole world happy , not to many people could that. When i think of you and Heatwave it always reminds me of " The first day of snow" my favorite song ,realy your still here..

Al white

March 17, 2013

Rest in Peace

February 25, 2013

GREETINGS FROM SOUTH AFRICA - just heard of your passing now - Johhnie Wilder Jnr.
May God Richly Bless your soul and your family - JOHANNESBURG SOUTH AFRICA, AFRICA

Charles Staals

February 20, 2013

Johnnie, you will 'Always and Forever' be my favorite singer of all time. To the family much love and God Bless.

Luci Turner

February 10, 2013

I loved and will always remember the music of Heatwave. WOW,what a blast.To the family of Johnnie Wilder Jr. - stay strong and God bless.

Ricky Banks

January 20, 2013

I WAS TURNED ONTO "MY GOAL" SHORTLY BEFORE HIS HOMEGOING. IT IS AMAZING THAT ONE MAN HAD SO MANY VOICES, AND KNEW WHAT TO DO WITH THEM ALL. MUCH LOVE AND RESPECT TO THE FAMILY.

BENJAMIN HARRIS

January 2, 2013

Tierra Billingsley

December 14, 2012

What a wonderful man he was and such a talented performer you will forever be remembered with love

Vanessa France

December 14, 2012

Toks

November 16, 2012

Johnnie, thank you. I learned music because of guys like you and Marvin Gaye. Your vocal arrangements and harmonies were God Gifted. They were perfect. When I need inspiration with my own music career, I always reach back to you.God bless you, Randy Hall

Randy Hall

November 15, 2012

32 years married to the love of my life. Heatwave's Always & Forever is and will always be our song. So sorry that his voice is gone..but the incredible music lives on. Rest in peace. Susan

susan d

October 30, 2012

I grew up on Heatwave musiq, Heatwave is not forgotten, he is a rare jewel, RIP my brother

Lei-Quana Utley

September 22, 2012

Arleen Johnson

September 19, 2012

Not only did he inspire people in music, he also inspired disabled people that you can live a full and happy life no matter the odds... RIP good man... The world loves and Misses you

Pamela Parrish

August 12, 2012

Never forgotten, so many memories of a wonderful voice which I had the pleasure & privilege of hearing live.
My daughter was recently married in NYC & partly because I love the song & has some small tribute to a wonderful singer one of her bridesmaids sang 'All I am' at the ceremony.
Gone but never forgotten.

Andy

August 8, 2012

When I was in the world I enjoyed Heat Wave music. When I became a follower of Jesus Christ, I was so happy to hear Johnnie Wilder, Jr singing praises to our Lord. How sincere his worship sounds. The acapella sound is so rich. I praise God for allowing Johnnie to bless our lives with music that glorified the Saviour. I pray his family and we all stay hidden in Christ.

Claudia Williams

July 16, 2012

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