Earl "Brian" Wilson, 59, of Henderson, Nevada, passed away on Saturday, February 28 surrounded by the love of his family. Born with a big heart and a gift for lifting others up, Brian built a life defined by devotion—to his family, to his work, and to the people he mentored and encouraged along the way.
Brian found his greatest joy in time spent with family and friends. He loved cooking, hosting gatherings, and creating moments that made people smile. Whether he was planning a party, cracking a joke, or offering a quiet word of encouragement, he had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Disney trips, Dollywood adventures, pool days, and soccer games were among his happiest places, especially when shared with the people he loved most. He was known affectionately as an "equal opportunity spoiler," always making sure his family had everything they needed—and often everything they wanted.
A dedicated and passionate professional, Brian spent 36 years at CPFilms, Solutia, and Eastman and later continued his work at Erickson International. As a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt, he excelled in Process Improvement and found deep fulfillment in mentoring others. He believed he was at his best when helping develop future operations and manufacturing leaders. The move to Nevada brought a renewed spark to his spirit, reigniting his passion for his craft and the people he guided.
Brian is survived by his wife, Kara (Stoddard) Wilson; his children Brittany (Wilson) Adkins and her husband Blaine (and their daughters Isabella and Cheyenne), Chase Alexander Wilson, and Melissa Marina Wilson; his siblings Thimothy (Rhoda) Wilson (and their sons Samuel and Izaak (Marcia) Wilson), Carol (Robert) Fawcett (and their sons Cole (Kelly) and Kelten Fawcett), and Allison Wilson (and her daughters Rebecca (Brendan) McPhee and Sarah (Brandon) Whitters); and his mother, Hazel Marina Wilson.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Wilson, and his brother Christopher Wilson, who is survived by his sons Christopher (Cassie) Wilson, Scott (Rachael) Wilson, Shane (Alishia) Wilson, and Joshua (Maranda) Wilson.
Brian was a steadfast, warm-hearted husband, a devoted father, a loving grampie, a faithful friend, a hard worker, and a natural mentor. Beneath his tough exterior was a gentle, generous soul who loved deeply and gave freely. His laughter, his sweetness, and his unwavering support will be forever missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Harvest Community Church in Kingsport, Tennessee. The service will be a time of remembrance through stories and photographs. The family welcomes anyone who wishes to share photos of Brian so that his memory may continue to be captured and cherished.
Brian will be laid to rest in June at Stilesville Cemetery in New Brunswick, Canada, alongside his father and oldest brother.