Steven Franklin Wilson

Steven Franklin Wilson departed this world on December 5, 2024, in Lebanon, Tennessee, at the age of 50. Born on December 24, 1973, in the charming town of Hartsville, Tennessee, Steven was a beacon of joy, threading laughter and love into the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. Steven is preceded in death by his father Franklin E. Wilson, his paternal grandparents Charlie F. and Emma L. Wilson, and his maternal grandparents Walter and Evell White. He is survived by his loving wife of 6 years Crystal Wilson, mother Eva Wilson, sister Samantha J. Brown, niece Cynthia Brown, niece Hannah Brown, and niece Rachel Brown. He is also survived by his father and mother-in-law Jerry and Debbie Cato, brother-in-law Dusty Cato (Bailey), niece Kenley Jo Cato, nephew JP Cato, and his niece Ruthie Cato. Steven also leaves behind his aunts Robbie Humes and Esther Crook, as well as numerous cousins. His lifelong friends Mark, Beth, Jessica, and David will miss him greatly and so will his “second parents,” William “Tat” and Ethel Lackey. Although he is gone, his memory will forever reside within them all. 

He embraced a life of service, dedicating over 28 years to the Tennessee Department of Transportation. Early in his career, Steven began as a mechanic, where he applied his talents to the upkeep of TDOT trucks and occasionally the patrol cars of the Tennessee State Troopers. His craftsmanship ensured the safety and reliability of essential services, underscoring a deep commitment to bettering his community. 

A proud graduate of the class of 1992 from Westmoreland High School, Steven was not merely a student; he was a spirited mischief-maker, whose jovial spirit left an indelible mark on everyone he met. His great sense of humor was legendary; he was a jokester and a prankster at heart. If he was picking on you, you could be sure he held you dear. His personality made him a treasured friend and partner in crime, as he effortlessly transformed ordinary moments into cherished memories. 

As a loving and attentive husband, Steven created a sanctuary of warmth and affection in his home. His attentive nature shone brightest in his relationships, where he consistently prioritized the happiness of his loved ones. Those who experienced his care understand that it came wrapped in laughter and kindness—traits that defined his essence. Steven will be warmly remembered as the man whose laughter could echo through the hearts of friends and family. He leaves behind a legacy of love and joy that will continue to inspire those he touched. 

Pallbearers are to include Dusty Cato, Scotty Madison, Michael White, Bobby "Rocky" Walker, Bobby Woods, and David Pugh 

Honorary pallbearers are to include all of Steven’s TDOT Supervisors, maintenance and road crew, Toney Garrett, Ray Horsley, Earnest Swaffer, Mark Pugh, Davy Bennett, Charles Brown, and Roy Grizzle. 

In celebrating Steven’s life, a visitation will be held on December 8, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by another on December 9, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A funeral service will commence at 12:00 PM on the same day, with Bro. Shawn Shoulders and Bro. Tim Abshire to officiate the funeral. A burial will follow at 1:00 PM, located at Crestview Memory Gardens, in Gallatin, Tennessee.