Addie Earl Wilson

Addie Earl Wilson, age 89, passed away Tuesday February 24, 2026, at his home in Selma, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Johnston County on February 2, 1937 to the late Carlton Wilson and Ruby Radford. In addition to his father and mother, he is also preceded in death by his wife, Joy Wilson; brothers, Donald and Charles Wilson; sisters, Inez Creech and Gladys Edwards.

He is survived by his sons, Steve Wilson and wife Regina of Micro, Raymond Wilson and wife Teresa of Erwin; daughter, Dr. Bonnie Wilson Vause, Ed.D and husband Eric of Edenton; grandchildren, Salina Williams, Erika Vause-Ginn, Amanda Vause Holloman, Steven Wilson, Clae Wilson, Oksana Wilson; great grandchildren, Anna-Brooke Pollard, Gracyn- Harper Sauls, Dalton Williams, Steven Williams, Gavin Wilson, Payton Wilson, Meredith Thomas Kessler; great great grandchildren, Dawson Williams, Brantley Williams, Regan Wilson, Haven Williams, Waylon Wilson.

Addie Earl Wilson, "PaPa Earl," was a kind-hearted man who loved everyone. He was the kindest man on earth. Addie loved his brothers and sisters and Gladys, whom he affectionately called "Sissy."

He adored Inez, his older sister, who was like a mentor to him after their mother passed away. Addie loved all his siblings. He also loved his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. His great-great-granddaughter, Havie, was especially close to him during his final days as she stayed with them. He loved visiting with all his grandchildren.

Earl was an outdoorsy person who loved the mountains, horses, and four-wheel riding. He enjoyed spending time with his children, taking them camping, flying kites, and playing marbles in the dirt outside. Earl worked at Burlington Mills for 50 years and then at Carolina Packers for 26 years. He was a hardworking man who loved his work family. Earl was known for his kindness, gentleness, and caring nature. He always put others before himself and expressed gratitude.

The Hospice Staff was special to him, especially his CNA, Emily, and hospice RN's, Amber and Jessica. He adored these ladies. Family was everything to Earl.

He was married to Joy Pilkington Wilson for 69 years, and they passed away just three days apart.

Their final service will be held jointly in Church of Faith in Selma on Thursday February 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM. The family will be receiving visitors at the church one hour prior to the service. Earl and Joy loved their family and friends and will be deeply missed. Their love overflowed for family and friends.

Flowers are acceptable or memorials may be made to Church of Faith 910 W. Railroad St. Selma, NC 27576.