Derek Thomas Wilson

Derek Thomas Wilson, 32, of Columbia, MO passed away August 6, 2024, at University Hospital in Columbia, due to complications from a spinal cord injury.
He was born December 17, 1991, to Larry and Joyce Wilson. As the baby of the family and everyone's favorite, Derek came into this world the same way he left it, surrounded by the deep and unconditional love of his family.
Derek was a lover of adventure, a risk taker, and a thrill seeker. Before his injury, he was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, and spending time surrounded by nature. He competed in the Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC) sponsored by the NRA and 4H shooting sports. He was a multi-year champion at the state level and went to compete at the national level with great success. He was coached by David Brooks and his dad.
Derek found immense joy in riding his Ninja motorcycle, cherishing the sense of freedom and exhilaration it brought him.
Derek was a talented gardener, and he especially took pride in his cucumbers which he would turn into the spiciest pickles known to man. After his injury, he had big dreams of starting an Extreme Wheelchair Stunts YouTube channel. Unfortunately, this dream was quickly squashed by his boring sisters who absolutely refused to record his daring antics. Nevertheless, his sense of adventure remained.
To be loved by Derek meant to be pranked by Derek. He enjoyed laughing (sometimes at his family's expense) and he never took life too seriously. Whether it was someone he had known for years or a stranger he just met, it brought him great joy to bring a smile to a face.
Derek had a deep love for all animals, especially his beloved dog Bailey, who was his constant companion. Throughout his life, he cared for many cats, each one holding a special place in his heart.
Even in the face of pain, Derek demonstrated determination and courage to achieve his goals. He reclaimed his independence by regaining the ability to drive and, in 2023, he triumphantly completed his education. His family is eternally grateful to the educators at Moberly Area Community College for their belief in him, encouragement, and support as he reached this lifelong goal.
He is survived by his mother, Joyce Schaefer Wilson, father Larry Wilson (Cindy Lenk), sisters Julie Wilson and Christine Wilson, niece Madison Backes, nephew Chance Hardin, aunt Jane Patten (Terry), uncle Terry Wilson (Barb Bailey), Mike Schaefer (Connie), cousins Brad Schaefer, Matt Wilson, Jessica Patten, Lauren Buechter (Keith), Tara Mengwasser (Justin), and Joe Schaefer.
Derek was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Orville (Shorty) and Rose Wilson, and his maternal grandparents, Walter and Ruth Schaefer.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to, People Helping Paws Dog Rescue, PO BOX 6701. Jefferson City, MO 65102.
Friends will be received from 4:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Friday, August 23, 2024, at HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors in Jefferson City with services following at 5:00 P.M.
Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, Missouri 65109 (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com