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Jeff Wilson Obituary

Austin criminal defense lawyer and music devotee Jeff Wilson died Monday at Brackenridge Hospital, succumbing to a severe brain injury suffered when he was hit by a suspected drunken driver after leaving a concert last week. He was 32.

Wilson had attended the show featuring the Black Crowes, Robert Randolph and the Family Band and Drive-By Truckers at the Backyard in Bee Cave on July 3 with his wife, Mandy Wilson, and two of their friends. It was one of hundreds of concerts that Wilson had attended, according to his blog. He also played bass in the band Crack, which he formed with friends.

After the show at the Backyard, Wilson and his friends were waiting to cross RM 620 when three of them and two others were hit by a Mitsubishi Eclipse driven by Mary Dodgen of Tyler, according to Bee Cave police.

Dodgen had a blood alcohol level of 0.148, almost twice the legal limit, according to court documents. She is charged with felony aggravated assault and intoxication assault and is in the Travis County Jail.

Wilson, who graduated from the University of Texas School of Law in 2000, was an assistant county attorney, prosecuting misdemeanor crimes, before he was hired last year to join the firm of Austin defense lawyer Joe Turner.
Published by Austin American-Statesman from Jul. 10 to Jul. 13, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Jeff Wilson

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74 Entries

Kathryn Shaw

September 7, 2006

Dearest Diana, Jajaun, Don, the rest of Jeff's family including his wife, and friends.



I just learned of this tragedy. I really can't comprehend it. When Jeff and I were neighbors in the summer of 1995 at Baylor...we quickly became friends. He was kinda like a bright Kramer next door who was always popping in to fix something for us girls, cook, tell a funny story, or just hang out. Shortly thereafter, I met and lived with Diana (complete sweetheart) in their apt. while Jeff was in Europe... and also spent some fun times with wonderful Don and Jajuan. Those were some of the best times. Bizarre...but the one thing I somehow have from the Wilson days of fun is a Black Crowes CD that Jeff wrote "Wilson" on. Jeff was such a unique guy with lots of friends. His full fledged spirit and determination were inspiring. It was also inspiring to see how much he adored Diana and Braxton. He was so full of life..so full of hopes and dreams. I still remember when he was being all secretive/ humble about the fact that he almost made a perfect score on his LSAT. It doesn't make any sense why this has happened. Jeff will always be remembered and will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to spend some time with him. My deepest sympathy and my heart goes out to you, the rest of his family including his wife, and all of his friends. May we all live ALL the days of our lives to the fullest while remembering all of the wonderful things that Jeff Wilson taught us. Love, Kathryn [email protected]

Betty Whittenburg

July 17, 2006

Mandy,

I am so sorry that this happened. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love,

Ken, Tracy, and Daniel Wilson

July 14, 2006

With your dedication and attitude, you touched our lives and as you did so many others. May the Lord look upon you and your family.

Amanda A

July 14, 2006

I met Jeff in the elevator at the court house. We were both leaving the jail to try and get people released. Over the next few weeks I developed great respect for Jeff. He was such a great guy. He's crossed the bridge now. Mandy and family, you're in my thoughts.

Shane Brooks

July 14, 2006

I went to Law School at Texas with Jeff where we were assigned projects together in classes. I then had the fortune to continue working with him in the practice of criminal law in Travis County. Two words (of many) that would describe Jeff- BRIGHT...and COOL. The saying "The candle that burns twice as bright burns half as long" has never been more appropriate. Shine on Jeff.

Mike O'Neal

July 14, 2006

Wilson Family,

Although I never met Jeff, I knew his story since Don and I flew together in the past and often discussed our lives and families. Don was obviously proud of Jeff and his accomplishments. What a senseless and tragic loss.

Scott Davis

July 14, 2006

To Jeff's Family:

Jeff was an assistant County Attorney assigned to my Court, at the time I was a Justice of the Peace. I believe it was his first Court. He treated the staff, defendants, officers and defense attorneys with respect. He was prepared and very good at what he did. You knew that he had a bright future. This is truly a tragedy. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.

Diana Bigley

July 14, 2006

May God Bless YOU and Your Family during this difficult time. I don't know Jeff, only through my daughter , Jana Ortega, and through the media do I know him, but I am sure he was the light of your life. Always keep those special memories.

Megan Rohrs

July 13, 2006

I met Jeff and worked with Jeff shortly after law school. He left an impression on me that made me feel that I did not have to "become" an attorney, but that I could just stay myself and experience my same loves and passions and still practice law.

At this same time of first meeting Jeff, I had not long before awoke from a coma. I have shared my deepest prayers with Jeff throughout this time. I offer this experience, and the same experience of the people who I shared conversations with in the hospital after they awoke, so that Mandy and the Wilson family may know. If Jeff would have been given the chance, I know he would have said before leaving, "it is better now...it is so beautiful ... and it is all". Of those of us who awoke in that hospital, the beauty was not in awakening, it was in what we all similarly remembered whilst gone. Most of all the comfort and beauty was in the expectation of returning there one day.

Please let your faith guide you through this time and know that you will be with him again.

Theresa Adams

July 13, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with you and everyone involved in this tragedy. This tragedy has touched the lives of so many people that you will never know. God Bless everyone of you.

Julie Swift

July 13, 2006

Don,Jajuan,Diana



Sorry to here about your lost my thought and prayer are with you and your family go through this time

May God Be With

Lea & Larry Shackleford

July 13, 2006

To the Wilson Family:

Our deepest sympathies go out to you during this difficult time. Take comfort in knowing that God is watching over you now and forever!!

Mary and David Ledyard

July 13, 2006

Mandy you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Emily (Walls) Insall

July 13, 2006

Wilson family,

I have many memories of Jeff from school and church. I will always remember his love of music and laughter. I am blessed for having known him. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. God Bless

S. Salinas-Reynolds

July 13, 2006

I met Jeff a few years ago, I worked at a law firm where he did on call work and in which, I also had the pleasure of working with his good friend Jason Steans for a few years. All I ever heard about Jeff were great and wonderful things and everytime I saw him he always had a smile on his face. I have been keeping up with Jason's updates and reading about Jeff he was TRULY a wonderful person. My prayers go out to his wife Mandy and his family and to Jason who I know how much Jeff ment to him. May God Bless you all.....

Kathrine and Robert Stewart

July 13, 2006

Don, Juann and Diana,



We were so sorry to hear of your loss. A bright light has gone out. Our thoughts are with you and Jeff's family at this time.

Robert Buford

July 13, 2006

I felt a special bond with Jeff because he was the only other lawyer that I ever met, besides myself, who grew up as a skateboarding punk rocker. I feel horrible about the situation and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.

Gay Leverett

July 13, 2006

Dearest Wilson Family,

It's been many years since we left Cleburne, but you remain dear to all of the Leveretts. My 6th grade class when I had Jeff and I was "Mrs. L" remain some of my fondest memories! Please know you are in our prayers and thoughts as you walk through this valley. We love you and know God will sustain you all during this most tragic time.

Tiffany (Leverett) Rogers

July 13, 2006

Our thoughts and prayers are most certainly with all of the family and friends that are suffering such a great loss right now. I knew Jeff in school and from church growing up in Cleburne. He was certainly full of life and it is such a tragedy that his life was cut short. You are in our prayers. May God comfort you during this unimaginable time.

Zelma Milgram

July 13, 2006

Dear Mandy.

My deepest sympathies. With much love.

Zelma Milgram

Yolanda Valdez

July 13, 2006

My deepest condolences to the family.



Proud Marine Mom

(LCpl. Nicholas S. Perez – KIA 9-3-04 – Al Anbar Province, Iraq)

Kristy Middaugh

July 13, 2006

Mandy

My thought and prayers are with you and his family.

Jennifer Davidow

July 12, 2006

Dear Mandy,



I was in your class of 2000 at UT Law. I'm sorry to say I didn't get a chance to know either of you. Jeff and I had a lot in common: I also love music and will travel pretty much anywhere for a concert. I am so glad he was able to see the Crowes on Monday night. My deepest sympathies are with you and your families.

Larry, Marilyn, Cody, Vicki, and Valerie Vernon

July 12, 2006

The world has lost a great young man. Remember, Jeff has complete peace now. We pray that the pain you feel will soon lessen and you will feel some of that peace. Our thoughts and prayers will be with Mandy and all his family.

Amy Miles-Martin

July 12, 2006

My deepest symapthy to the Wilson family. My thoughts prayers will be with you.

Patrick Jelinek

July 12, 2006

To Mandy, when i heard this my heart broke for you. Although we have not talked in years, you will stay in my prayers. I know he will be looking over your shoulder with love forever. From what I've read they don't make any better a man than him. You have lots of friends thinking about you at this time and who will help you in anyway you need. I've seen how strong a woman you are and know that God will carry you through the abyss. My sincere condolences to Jeff's family and friend as well.

Robin, Austin, Aubrey, and Amy Tuley

July 12, 2006

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jeff's wonderful family. We are so saddened by your tragic loss.

Peggy Contreras

July 12, 2006

Sorry for your lost, I work with Jeff whe I was with Travis Attorney's Office. May God Bless you and your family.

Marsha & Robert Dockery

July 12, 2006

Mandy,

We were deeply saddened to hear of Jeff's passing. Although your heart will never completely mend, you will someday feel lucky to have been blessed with such a true love. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Carlos Garcia, ( Garcia & True, LLP)

July 12, 2006

I didn't know Jeff but remember him from seeing him around the courthouse. His loss has reverberated through our professional community. I am just grateful that in living his life as he did, his spirit touched so many,even those of us whom did not know him personally. Thanks, Jeff.

Jana Magruder

July 12, 2006

Wilson family,

I along with many other Baylor friends send you my deepest sympathy. Know that Jeff meant so much to us and we will never forget our years with him. We will continue to pray for all of you during this time.

Jana Wilson Magruder

N. Q.

July 12, 2006

To Mandy & Family, I'm sorry that you have to go through a tragic loss. I don't know why bad things happen to good people, but I do pray that God is with you all and I know nothing will heal your wounds except time.....Take care and God Bless

Pamela Alvarado

July 11, 2006

Mandy,

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Sincerely,

Pamela (Polnick) Alvarado & Family

Codi Morrison

July 11, 2006

To Mandy and the Wilson family-

I am Wes Morrison's sis-in-law, Codi. Wes was in ICU next to Jeff while at Brackenridge and my husband Darren was across the street at the time of the accident. We are all very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that you have been in our prayers and that we will continue to pray for you in the days to come.



Codi Morrison and family

Melendy (King) Butler and family

July 11, 2006

Mandy, we've not met and I've not seen Jeff since high school. I don't have to tell you how lucky you are to be Jeffs wife...you already know that. I don't remember ONE single instance that Jeff didn't have a smile on his face. He was funny,confident,and intelligent and certainly knew great music when he heard it. It sounds like those qualities only grew with time and I'm so happy to know he had you to share that with and that he lived every minute as though it were his last. My families prayers are with you and yours.

Mac and Anita Reid

July 11, 2006

We did not know Jeff personally, but he and Mandy were good friends to our daughter, Rami Reid, who lives in Austin. That made him a friend to us. We pray that the family will feel God's comfort during this time of sorrow.

Staff At Maudies Too

July 11, 2006

All the staff at Maudies Too was deeply saddened by the loss of Jeff. He was a great 'regular' and will be missed! Our thoughts go out to all of his family and loved ones.

B.J. Hassell

July 11, 2006

To Jeff Wilson's family and friends , please accept our deepest sorrow and know that many people are thinking of you all. For the injured, we wish you a speedy physical recovery and emotional peace.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)Texas State Office, Austin, TX

Crystal Webb

July 11, 2006

My deepest sympathy is extented to all of you in the Wilson family. You will remain in our thoughts and prayers.



Our love is sent to you- Crystal Webb, Rode Chapman, and Paige Chapman

Jenni Marino

July 11, 2006

Mandy, we are so sorry for your loss. I know you are a strong woman and will make it through this impossible time. Our son Jeff has always had very nice things to say about you and Jeff. Jenni & Vic Marino (Beaumont, Texas)

Amy Duckett Corallo

July 11, 2006

My deepest sympathy to all of the Wilson family. Each of you is in our prayers. I will always remember Jeff's love of music. Let your life always be filled with the music Jeff has shared with each of you. May your memories last forever and may they comfort you at this time of grieving.





With Love,

Leslie Waibel

July 11, 2006

May God bless you and your family during this time of sorrow. Jeff will be missed by many.

Ashley Marshall Everett

July 11, 2006

Jeff, I will never forget you.



Mandy, Jajuan and Don, Diana and Ryan: We are grieving with you and praying for you constantly.



Much love,

Brenda Rios-Travis County Attorney's Office

July 11, 2006

Mandy

my deepest condolences to you and your family...Jeff was great friend and will be missed dearly.

Todd Clarke

July 11, 2006

I had the pleasure of working with Jeff at the law firm on a couple of cases. In that time I got to know a person that packed more living into every month that I could imagine. He was always on the go and loved it. That's what I'm going to learn from knowing him...to really get out there and enjoy life...make the most of it. His passing has shaken our entire family...just unbelievable. All the best to the Wilson family and friends.

David Pernell TCCES

July 11, 2006

my sympathy to the family and friends of mr. wilson. i met him only recently thru work, but he was a kind person. my condolences to all that will miss him and to those that never got a chance to meet him.

Brook Miller

July 11, 2006

I only knew Jeff a short time when working at Haynes & Boone while he was attending law school. I remember we all got tickets to go see the Black Crowes at (I think) La Zona Rosa. He truly had a love for music and a zest for life.



It has been quite a number of years since seeing Jeff and I was saddened to read about the accident and it's outcome.



My thoughts and prayers go out to you Mandy, Jeff's family, your family, and your friends.

Uncle Steve Payne

July 11, 2006

Mandy,

We were so very sorry to hear of Jeff's passing, I cannot imagine how difficult this time is for you. I never had the pleasure of meeting Jeff, but I'll bet we would have gotten along great, since we both love music. Stay close to your Mom, and lean on God, He will always be there to comfort you. Josh, Rachel, Kallie, Denae, Johnsa and William all send their love and condolences. We love you, call on us any time.

Razzle

July 11, 2006

Your like a brother to me because of your love of music. Keep on jammin in the heavens.

Lori Bloom & Gary Groblewski

July 11, 2006

We were fortunate to meet Jeff through my brother, Sigmund, and spend time with him at the ACL festival last year. He was truly wonderful person and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mandy, Jeff's family and friends.

Molly Dougherty

July 11, 2006

A man is a success if he gets up in the morning and gets to bed at night, and in between he does what he wants to do. - Bob Dylan



I'd say that certainly describes Jeff's perspective on life.



Jeff, I hadn't seen you in a while but I always admired your lust for life and your passion for music. You were one of the most genuine people that I have ever met. Your presence will be greatly missed.



Mandy, we only met twice (once very randomly on the beach in Corpus), but please know that you and Jeff's family are in my thoughts and those of so many in the community. May you find peace and strength in getting through this together.

Adair (Marino) Bowen

July 11, 2006

Mandy,

My prayers and thoughts are with you, your families and friends. My Jeff spoke so highly of your Jeff and has kept me posted throughout this past week. God will carry you through this--Believe Him.

Meridith Staton (Turner)

July 11, 2006

We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I feel honored to have known him. He will be missed by so many of us.

Lani Clark

July 11, 2006

I didn't know Jeff, but was about to cross the same street before the accident happened. I did see the aftermath and will never forget it or the people involved. My heart goes out to everyone and their families.

Wendy Heffington

July 11, 2006

Although I never had the oppertunity to meet Mr. Wilson I was touched by his story, his love of music, and his love for Austin. It is clear that he will be missed by his family and friends.

Brenda MacArthur

July 11, 2006

In your time of sorrow, remember to celebrate the life, rejoice in the journey of the soul and draw strength from the spirit. For when a soul passes, it leaves behind a piece in your heart to bring you comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with you.



I had the pleasure to work with Jeff through a local non-profit organization. He always brightened the office with his smile and zest for life, and will be greatly missed.

Elizabeth Watts

July 11, 2006

I wish family and friends my sincerest sympathy for their loss. Time will heal your pain.

STEPHANIE MCGINTY

July 11, 2006

My sincere condolences to Jeff's wife, family and friends. My prayers and thoughts are with you. I didn't know Jeff, unfortunately. Such a tragedy as this is surely a reminder of how very precious life is. Jeff lived his dream and, in his short life, has left a legacy for those who knew him and an inspiration to all.

Sigmund & Marcia Bloom

July 11, 2006

Our thoughts and prayers are with Jeff's family as well as Sigmund and Kim.

P. Crumley

July 11, 2006

We didn't know Jeff and Mandy on a

personnel level as alot of people.

Met them through their next door

neighbor who happens to be our

Mom and Mother-in-law. But our

heart goes out to Mandy and the

family in this hour of need. As a

child once said to me "Don't cry

Jesus needs him more and then walked off". Will keep you in our

prayers.

Raymond Rodriguez

July 11, 2006

My condolences to his family and loved ones may godspeed be with you in your recovery as I write this I am reminded of how my little brother was killed August 31, 2004 in an accident involving alcohol he himself was sober and did not drink but the person who was driving was intoxicated and lost control of the vehicle they were in, he left behind a 5 yr old son and 7 yr old daughter. DWI is a tragedy that affects the lives taken and the ones who are left behind to deal with loss of their loved ones. God Bless You...

Lara Martinez

July 11, 2006

My deepest sympathies to the family of Counsel Jeff Wilson on the occasion on the loss of their loved one.



He was a brilliant young attorney with so much potential.



May he rest in peace.

Kay Maynard

July 11, 2006

I dont know the family but My deepest sympathy goes out to the family during this tragic time. May God always be with you and the family of Jeff.

Annie Guedea

July 11, 2006

I have been following this story since July 5th and cannot even imagine what his wife may be going thru. To find your soul mate and plan on builing a life together, sharing eachothers dreams and just knowing you have the rest of your life for each of you to share. God bless his wife and family and know that god only has room for Angels and he needed a slot to fill with Jeff wilson. God will only be there to help you all heal and know that he will be there to make sure you all get thru this. God Bless you all.

Heather Pray

July 11, 2006

Jeff,



We worked together at the Burk Law Firm and talked about music all the time. I was reading the newspaper today at work and stumbled upon this and prayed that it wasn't the Jeff Wilson I knew. You are awesome and an inspiration that I will never forget.



And you never got sick of me talking about The Cure, even though I barely knew who Phish were.



Mandy, we only met a few times, but you are in my thoughts and prayers.

L.M. O

July 11, 2006

I am so sorry for your loss. Reading about Jeff's passion for music really touched me. This is a tragic loss.

Steve White

July 11, 2006

My heartfelt condolences. I am a total stranger, living in Oklahoma City, but have been following the tragic story since the accident. Jeff's love of life, family and friends is so very evident. Even those of us hundreds of miles away share your grief. God comfort you all who were so blessed to have known this very special man.

Jamie (Penton) Cooper

July 11, 2006

My prayers go out to his family and friends. I was fortunate to have known Jeff only very briefly in law school.

George M

July 11, 2006

Jazzy Jeff....

What up short-timer? Wish you had been wrong on that one, bro....but a Higher Power had Higher Purpose for you. Your skillset is required elsewhere. In the meantime, the rest of us will keep plodding along as best we can. Hail & Farewell Sweet Prince...may we all meet again!!

Janie Martinez

July 11, 2006

My condolences and prayers to the family and love ones. May God comfort you'll through this time of sorrow.





Buford & Gonzalez, L.L.P

Lanita Kellis

July 11, 2006

To The family of Jeff Wilson,Our thoughts and prayers go with you today and the days to follow, we have walked the walk you and Jeff's parents are walking, we lost our thirty six year old nephew to a drunk driver last year on his birthday. There are no words that can't heal the hole left in your heart, but let God be your source.Our prayers are with you as you and his family face the days ahead.

rob renteria

July 11, 2006

my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones......i never met jeff...........but i really feel that his love and passion for life and living with a sense of purpose should be honored.......again.....i pray that you find strength to get through these dark times.....god bless..........r

Bret Bloomquist

July 11, 2006

God bless him. I'm a friend of Wes Morrison's, and two hours before the concert started, Wes and four other friends were trying to get me to go to the concert. I'm sure if I had gone I'd have been on that traffic island with Jeff.



God speed and bless everyone involved, especially Jeff's family.

Bridgette (McNulty) Stahlman

July 10, 2006

I feel extremely honored to have known Jeff, first in high school and later as law school classmates. He was truly an amazing person and will be very missed.

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