Hugh Edward Willson

Hugh Edward Willson of Lincoln, California, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, he later lived in Ladera Heights, California, before making his home in Roseville and Lincoln.

Hugh was the devoted husband of Sandra Willson, whom he married on June 9, 1968, at the Air Force Academy Chapel in Colorado Springs, Colorado. For nearly 60 years, they were the best of friends. Their life together was full of love, laughter, and adventure. He was a proud father to Jennifer (Eric Barner), Aaron (Wendy Willson), Luke (Jessica Willson), and Bethany (Jared Haag). Hugh’s legacy continues through his ten grandchildren: Katelyn (Craig Valentine), Shelby (Landon Ritchey), Jessica (Cole Plunkett), Stephanie (Sam Moore), Evan, Nicholas (Madelyn Barner), Ethan, Avery, Zachary, Lauren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Hugh was the son of Julius Langson Willson and Paula Mae Branigan and was preceded in death by his brothers, Gary and Steve Willson. He is survived by his siblings Scott Willson and Patty Willson Brewster.

An accomplished and dedicated professional, Hugh earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Arts from Colorado State University. He was invited to participate in an international art project with National Geographic and published many individual art pieces while fulfilling a career as a graphic art designer. He owned and operated his own business and also contributed many years to Kleen Air, leading countless commercial and residential project teams. Hugh served his country as a Captain in the U.S. Army and was the recipient of numerous commendations, which included the Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Bronze Star Medal.

Hugh was an active member of Trinity Life Center, a dedicated board member with Word to Russia and served on multiple Bayside mission teams, often serving as a construction team leader. He was also a proud leader in the Royal Rangers and carried his love of sports and adventure throughout his life, from competing as an All-CIF decathlete in high school, surfing with the Dewey Weber surf team, and participating as a collegiate athlete with the Colorado State ski team.

His life and character were built upon his relationship with Jesus Christ. He was deeply loved for his patience, dependability, and servant heart. He cherished life and lived it to the fullest with his family. Together, they enjoyed many spontaneous adventures of snow skiing, cycling, surfing, and spending time on the beach soaking up the sun. He loved to create beautiful pieces of art. Hugh had a remarkable ability to put others at ease and left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was a mentor, a role model, and a teacher, guiding his children and all who knew him with wisdom and love.

A celebration of Hugh’s life will be held at Trinity Life Center (5225 Hillsdale Blvd, Sacramento, CA) on April 17 at 3:00 PM, with a reception immediately following. A link to view the service virtually is available upon request.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Word to Russia in his memory: https://wordtorussia.org/give/