Minnie Wilson

Mrs. Minnie Ruth Oliphant Wilson, 91 of Charlotte, peacefully left this earth at home on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 surrounded by family and friends.  She was born on April 9, 1930, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Charlotte, NC, to the late James Sloan Oliphant and Emma Jamison Oliphant.

At an early age, she joined First Baptist, at the original South Church Street location.  Mrs. Wilson led a very active church life.  She was president of the Angelic Choir, and was active in all other blended choirs.  She was a member of Pastor's Aide, Floral Committee, Women's Committee, and Sunday School Class #5, and Women of Ageless Wisdom at 85.  In the community, Mrs. Wilson participated in the Senior Nutrition programs at the Bettie Rae Center and West Charlotte Community Center, engaging in the exercise classes, board games, puzzles and travel.

Minnie was a 1948 graduate of Second Ward High School in Charlotte.  She married her high school sweetheart, William "Rip" Wilson.  Minnie attended Band's Beauty College and was a licensed cosmetologist working at various shops in Charlotte.  Minnie retired from Frito-Lay, Inc. in 1992 with more than 20 years of service; she received numerous awards for her exemplary performance.  Following retirement, she traveled with her devoted sister and best friend, Betty Morris.

In addition to her parents, Minnie was preceded in death by her husband, William Wilson, Jr.; son, William Reginald "Reg" Wilson; grandson, Ricardo J. "Ricky" Wilson; and siblings, Robert Oliphant, Willie James "Bill" Oliphant, Mae Frances O. Kirkland, and Betty O. Morris.

Mrs. Wilson is survived by her loving daughter, Brenda W. Mansel; grandson, Stephen Mansel; great-granddaughters, Jasmine Wilson and Parris Wilson; sister-in-law, Lucille Oliphant of Flint, MI and Dorothy Beasley of Charlotte, NC; brother-in-law, Shannon Dunham; special nephew and niece, George Pettice of Charlotte and Emily Bolton of Abilene, TX.  Minnie will be missed by daughter-in-law, Johnetta Wilson and special daughters, Gloria Duncan, Emma Vaughn and Angela Wilson.  She also leaves precious memories with a host of nieces, nephews and "adopted" sons and daughters in her church community. 

Mama gave love and was loved.