Joy Sue Wilson

Joy Sue Pilkington Wilson, age 83, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday February 21, 2026. She was born in Johnston County on March 16, 1942 to the late Raymond Pilkington and Pauline Capps. In addition to her father and mother, she is also preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Anderson.

The family will receive visitors at Church of Faith in Selma on Thursday February 26, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A funeral service will be conducted in the church on Thursday at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow the service in Selma Memorial Gardens.

She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Addie Earl Wilson of Selma; 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; brothers, Buster Pilkington and wife Carolyn of Selma, Buddy Pilkington; sister, Laura Radford and husband Phil; grandchildren, Salina Williams, Erika Vause-Ginn, Amanda Vause Holloman, Steven Wilson, Clae Wiliams, Oksana; great grandchildren, Anna-Brooke Pollard, Gracyn- Harper Sauls, Dalton Williams, Steven Williams, Gavin Wilson and Payton Wilson; great great grandchildren, Dawson Williams, Brantley Williams, Regan Wilson, Haven Williams, Waylon Wilson.

Joy was an exceptional gardener who thoroughly enjoyed working with her plants outdoors when her health permitted. She was renowned for her culinary expertise, particularly her coconut cakes and macaroni and cheese, which were considered among the best in the South. Joy was an avid reader and meticulous journaler, taking great pride in her detailed records. She was deeply proud of her three children and their numerous accomplishments, all of whom had worked diligently and achieved significant success in their respective endeavors. Each of her children had been married for over 45 years, a testament to Joy and Earl's enduring commitment to each other. Joy was deeply proud of this accomplishment and always spoke of her children's determination in life through the good and bad. Her children have followed in her footsteps, embracing her legacy of forgiveness and devotion to their faith. Joy was known for her compassionate heart, frequently providing assistance to those in need, including donating clothing to shelters. Her kindness towards others was truly remarkable. She cherished her children deeply and often reflected on her family's blessings in her Bible, expressing gratitude for God's grace. Joy was extremely proud she had Dr. Hal Woodall as her family's friend and personal doctor for over 40 years. Above all, Joy's love for Jesus and her family was unwavering.

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